Graphic Design Schools

Due to the Internet and advances in technology, the definition of art has changed. Not only do artists paint, sculpt, and illustrate, they also use software programs to create graphic designs, animation, and other multi-media art as well as installations, videos and more. Because art is so broad, there are literally hundreds of different employment opportunities for artists. Artists work in graphic design, advertising, publishing, Internet media, libraries, museums, alternative schools, editing, art journalism, interior design, fashion and retail, and more.

To begin the path from art student to paid artists you should enroll in an art program. Depending on your focus area, you may choose a traditional college or university with a productive art department or school; you may choose a technical or design school; or you may decide that a freestanding art institute is the best way to go. The type of art school you decide to attend will not have a negative impact on your academic career, but the quality of the program might.

When searching for art school programs, you should consider accreditation, curriculum, and admission requirements. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is the preferred accrediting agency for art degree programs. The Council for Interior Design is also a top accrediting agency for art & design schools. While NASAD and the Council for interior design are the top agencies, the U.S. Department of Education recognizes a number of other agencies. Simply visit http://www.ed.gov to review the list.

A high quality art degree program will have a lengthy and demanding application process. Aspiring art students will have to submit samples of their work, official transcripts from all schools attended, official test scores, recommendation letters, and an application essay. You will also be required to attend an interview. For online students, the interview may be by phone or via online chat.

Next, most quality art degree programs have similar, if not the same curriculum requirements. The curriculum requirements will vary by degree program; you should select several top art programs, visit the school website and compare the curriculum to your selections. All school websites list course/curriculum requirements for each art program,

To locate top art programs, you can use your favorite search engine or browse through listings at online college directories.