By Kayti Doolitle
Students pursuing art school certainly know how to follow their dreams. But does following your dreams pay off?
Today, it is important to consider what happens after college. It may seem like a far off future, but really it is just around the corner. You may not know what career or major you will pursue, but you should do the research now. Researching possible art careers as a freshman will eliminate that life after college panic.
This list of jobs provided by the 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that an art degree can lead you to a profitable career path. Keep in mind, these salaries can range drastically from job to job or city to city.
| Occupation | Job Summary | Degree Requirement | 2012 Average Salary |
| Art Directors | Art directors are responsible for the visual style and project management in magazines, newspapers, theater, product packaging or movie and television productions. | Bachelor’s degree | $80,880 |
| Fashion Designer | Fashion designers create original clothing, accessories, and footwear. | Bachelor’s degree | $62,860 |
| Multimedia artists and animators | Multimedia artists and animators create animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media. | Bachelor’s degree | $61,370 |
| Industrial designers | Industrial designers are responsible for the appearance and function of many of the products bought, used and consumed every day. | Bachelor’s degree | $59,610 |
| Interior designers | Interior designers make interior spaces functional and beautiful. | Bachelor’s degree | $47,600 |
| Craft and fine artists | Craft and fine artists use a variety of materials and techniques to create art for sale and exhibition. | High school diploma or equivalent | $44,380 |
| Graphic designers | Graphic designers create visual concepts, by hand or using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. | Bachelor’s degree | $44,380 |
| Floral designers | Floral designers, also called florists, cut and arrange live, dried, and silk flowers and greenery to make decorative displays. | High school diploma or equivalent | $44,380 |
If you have an idea about what career you would like to chase talk to local organizations or businesses about potential future job opportunities. Find an internship. Find a mentor within the field. Become the studio assistant for your favorite artist. The best way to know if a career is going to work for you personally and financially is to get out there and do it.