BAs
As we are all going to be leaving university with an arts degree (hopefully!), I thought I would first research what it's like for graduates, being launched into the big wide world. It is a common belief that having an arts degree will get you nowhere once you leave university - as it doesn't lead you straight into a 'practical' job, and a career path is uncertain. However, the possibilities of an art degree exist beyond the lonely artist painting in a small studio, only emerging for coffee.
Art degrees focus on creating more knowledge and skills in a variety of different areas. As art students, we study ideas, theories, society and culture, which then informs our own work. Skills gained from an arts degree include flexibility and versatility, as we have to work around timetables, and many different deadlines at once. Art students also have good communication skills from working with different people, write critical essays, give presentations, are curious, naturally competitive, are able to think both logically and creatively and are internet/media savvy. These are all transferable skills, that can be taken from this course, to one job, and to another etc.
A spell of being penniless after you've completed your degree where you're willing to do almost any kind of work to pay off your debt, is expected. The main problem is funding and paying the bills, and when you have first come out of university, any kind of job will do. Things will always present themselves, as long as you are enthusiastic and dedicated. If you live in the sticks, moving to a bigger city is probably a good idea, as it has more opportunities - artistic and otherwise. (That's not to say you can't do amazing work from the sticks though!). Getting involved with a recruitment agency could also be something to look into - as they get to know you, and are more likely to recommend you to people involved in projects that suit you. Small temporary jobs lead to bigger jobs, so be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up.
Job research is key. If there is a particular career path you want to follow, make sure you know if there are any particular entry requirements, and what skills are more desired than others. You can tailor yourself to fit around particular jobs, using the skills you have gained from your degree. Know your skills, and emphasise what you're good at. There are lots of job options that can be considered, so don't rule anything out. Examples of jobs that you can get into if you have an arts degree include; a car designer, a puppeteer and a curriculum writer (so a wide variety).
Photography is one of the most popular subjects, and competition for places is high. There are now over 100 courses - FdAs, BAs, MAs. However, a photography course isn't as simple as people may think - and it's not all practical work.
University should encourage creativity, independence and help students realise their potential. Photography is a funny subject, in the sense that a degree is not necessarily required to prove yourself. Many great photographers don't have degrees, as it's always about practice, and working to get your name out there. However, a degree is useful in seeking other strands of employment, and proves you have the dedication to complete a 3 (or more) year course.
The following are some career options after leaving university with a photography degree:
- Studio. Setting up a studio can be relatively cheap, and can be done from home. Setting up studios in spare rooms, or renting a small room, is a common practice of students who want to earn an extra bit of money. Plus, it always looks professional when you say you own your own studio.
- Weddings. (Sorry Geoff and Mark) Wedding photographers can be freelance or employed through a company, and are always going to be in demand - even moreso in the summer months. The better you are at it, the more weddings you'll go to, and the more you'll be able to charge. To me, wedding photography is all based around word of mouth, and building up a good reputation for whatever locations you're working around.
- Science. Medical records, forensic and documenting technical procedures. However, working knowledge of the field would also be required - probably qualifications in the sciences/police force (forensics).
- Photojournalism. Newspapers, magazines, leaflets. Can either be employed through a company or freelance. Photojournalists are more likely to be required to have a degree, or a working portfolio. This kind of industry has different demands, and is fast paced, and requires you to work under pressure.
You can also gain practical experience on your course by choosing to do a work placement. This helps network, and builds up a list of contacts that you can call upon again. It also introduces you to the realities of the industry, and what it really takes to become a working professional. It doesn't necessarily have to be in photography - and taking a work placement in any area you're interested in is always going to be a valuable experience (more information to come about the work I am more interested in going in to!).
Websites used for research:
