Everything You Need to Know About Getting Your Art Degree Online
This guide will take you from A to Z when it comes to online art degrees.
Find out everything you need to know to make the best decision you can about pursuing an online art degree, like what teachers are really like, how to know you've found the right program, how to prepare for the online environment, and more.
Making the Choice: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Online Art Degrees
What to Expect From an Online Art Program
An In Depth Look at the Teachers of Online Schools
The Online Art School Checklist: How to Know You Have Found an Excellent Online Program
How to Avoid Art School Online Diploma Mill Scams
Making the Choice: The Pros and Cons of Online Art Degrees
Today there are many colleges and programs which offer distance or e-learning education to degree-seeking students. It is important that any prospective student considering obtaining a degree online do the proper research in order to make an informed decision. An online school's accreditation status, reputation, and cost are all elements to consider when making your choice. However, if the type of degree you wish to pursue online is an art degree, there are special factors to contemplate when weighing the pros and cons of getting your degree online.
1. The Cost of Getting an Art Degree
While receiving a degree via the Internet usually eliminates commute time and allows the student to have more freedom with regard to scheduling and the pace of the coursework, many online only degree programs cost considerably more than publicly funded or state universities and community colleges. Further, as an art major, you may need to purchase expensive equipment such as Adobe Photoshop and painting supplies. Be sure to talk to your university about financial aid options.
2. The Accreditation of the Institution
Accreditation is another factor to consider when choosing an online degree program. The United States' Department of Education offers a searchable database whereby prospective students can research a school or program's accreditation status. It is important for students to understand the differences in the types of accreditation that schools may receive. While many e-learning programs are nationally accredited, this may present a problem for a student later on if he or she is planning to apply to a graduate school that is regionally accredited.
Since art is such a competitive field, accreditation is especially important for those attending art schools. Employers will be all the more strident when selecting employees. Further, accredited art schools will have the resources you need to be considered a competitive applicant. Programs that are not accredited will likely fail to provide you with online resources.
3. The Flexibility of the Classes
While many students find online learning to be a good fit for the pursuit of purely academic majors, in a very hands-on and visual field such as art, it is often helpful for students to have teachers and mentors close at hand in order to provide criticism, structure, and assistance with techniques. In an online or virtual environment, it may be nearly impossible to receive the benefit of that one-on-one approach that art instruction demands. In addition, peer feedback and working in a creative environment are two very important elements to many students who are pursuing studies in art. In an online learning environment, these aspects are lacking and may affect the student's ability to fully appreciate and develop his or her knowledge in the field.
However, schools are making huge strides to fix these setbacks. With online message boards, peer review systems, video demonstrations, and video chat, you may find that the flexibility of the classes fit better with your personality. Before applying to any program, make sure you do the research on how the classes will be structured.
4. How Employees Will View the Degree
In general, online degrees are still not considered as prestigious as those earned at residential institutions, but opinions are slowly changing. In a 2005 study about online degrees, a higher education research firm called Eduventures surveyed 500 companies and found that about half of the employers believed the value of an online degree equaled that of a traditional degree, with 10 percent saying an online degree was more valuable. In 2006, Vault Inc., a for-profit career-information company, interviewed more than 200 human resources personnel and hiring managers and found that 55 percent of managers favored degrees from traditional institutions over online universities. Forty-one percent of those surveyed said they would give equal weight to an online and traditional degree.
Several studies suggest that the reputation of the online university is a key factor. If the online program is associated with a traditional college or university, employers are much more likely to accept the degree. The Vault survey found that 77 percent of HR managers preferred a degree from an online school that is associated with another accredited institution, such as the University of Maryland, rather than a degree from an Internet-only venture.
5. How the Job Market Will View the Degree
An online degree can be an asset in certain fields. According to the Vault survey, employers in new media or marketing are more likely to accept candidates with online degrees. Artists looking to work in fields associated with the Internet, such as graphic design, animation or some types of illustration, may have an easier time finding a job in the field because they can demonstrate experience and comfort with working online.
On the reverse side, employers in traditional fields that heavily rely on credentials, such as medicine or architecture, are less likely to accept online degrees. Because of this, artists working in fields related to those careers, such as medical illustration, may find that an online degree puts them at a disadvantage.
Article Resources:
Chronicle of Higher Education
New York Times
U.S. Department of Education: Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
What to Expect From an Online Art Programs
Online programs work in a variety of ways and each institution will have a different setup. However, here are some key things to expect from any online art program:
1. There will be a choice of whether or not you wish to take the entire class online, or supplement some of your study with in-class work.
Many schools, such as the Academy of Art University, give you the choice to either fully attend class on the Web, or use both the online class system and an in-class structure. When deciding how you would like your academic experience to be structured, consider whether or not you are close to the on-site location and if you feel attending class in-person would benefit your personal learning style.
2. Most online classes require you to turn in the work in the same time period as in-class students.
You will still have to meet deadlines and complete your assignments in a timely manner. However, unlike traditional universities, you will be able to choose when you listen to your lectures and do your class work.
3. Your classes will likely include a great deal of peer and teacher interaction.
Since art is subjective, a great deal of your class time will be spent interacting with your peers and teachers and getting their opinions of your work. This could include class discussions, interactive presentations, and custom made critiquing skills. Many online art schools have an area where you can upload your work and students can browse through it and offer their opinions through message boards.
4. You will be required to submit your artwork online.
This will include taking a digital picture, scanning it, and either mailing the digital photos, uploading it to a specific place on the class's homepage, or sending it in via mail. This will allow the teacher to see your work and offer you a great deal of feedback. At the end of the class, your work will likely be turned into a portfolio.
5. Most art programs offer demonstration videos.
Art is an incredibly hands-on field, whether you are hoping to go into graphic design or fine arts. Online schools understand that many individuals learn best by example, so most will provide example demonstration videos of the skilled instructor working on the project.
6. The equipment you need varies per class, but you will always be required to have access to a reliable computer and the Internet.
Obviously the equipment you will need will depend on your course of study. Those studying graphic design may need Adobe Photoshop while those focusing in fine arts may just need a great digital camera and art supplies. However, any online program will require the necessities: the Internet and a computer. If you don't have these things, go to a public library and borrow the equipment, or talk to your school about your options.
7. You will have access to your class 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Upon enrolling in most programs, you will receive a user name and password that will allow you to log into your art class at any time. This will allow you to work on your assignments based on your own convenience.
8. You will still have access to an 24/7 help line, counseling center, tech center, writing center, and all other student help centers that traditional university students are privy to.
Just because you made the choice to attend art school online, does not meet that you do not benefit from the other services that the school has to offer. If you are having a problem with your tech equipment, call the help line. If you are struggling with your essay on Van Gogh, speak with the writing the center.
Article Resources:
Academy of Art University
Academy of Art Institute
An In Depth Look at the Teachers of Online Schools
Online and distance learning programs have gained a great deal of credibility and prestige in the last decade. From the pioneers who ran the first distance learning programs to the cads who set up the first degree mill, online education has been a constant battle for reputation and proven value. With the advent of better accreditation options for distance learning programs, more passionate, professional professors have been drawn to teaching online courses.
One of the greatest benefits of distance learning programs is their ability to connect students all over the country to the best and brightest academic minds. This breaking down of geographical boundaries has been accompanied by a breaking down in the boundaries of who teaches courses. Online universities are able to have successful businessmen, practicing psychologists, and advanced biological researchers give students a real-world perspective on the application of their studies. This balance of theoretical and applied experience rounds out the student's education, and prepares him better for the workplace after graduation.
Kelly Justice: Dean of New Students at Strayer University Online
Kelly Justice, the Dean of New Students at Strayer University's online campus, is a great example of a modern distance learning professor. In addition to administering the admission of new students in to Strayer University's degree programs, she teaches two sections of an introduction to sociology course. With an master's in counseling from Villanova University, Ms. Justice has a respected educational pedigree, and she demands the same from other online learning professors at her institution. Before anyone is considered for a teaching position at Strayer, Justice says that the qualification is "a master's degree in the particular area… For graduate level classes, the person must have a PhD, as well as practical work experience prior to teaching."
Marilyn Gettinger: Professor at Bloomfield College and Union County College
Different institutions have different standards. Where Strayer University strives to provide teachers with the highest level of education, other institutions seek out those with exceptional professional experiences. Marilyn Gettinger teaches courses with a number of distance learning and online education institutions. She came from the world of cosmetics, where she was a top level supply chain manager. After improving the running of her company, Ms. Gettinger left to pursue a career consulting and teaching about purchasing and supply chain/materials management. She is an adjunct professor at Bloomfield College and Union County College.
Ralph Murrel Larmann: Professional Artist and Instructor at University of Evansville
Ralph Murrell Larmann is a professional artist who is on the faculty at the University of Evansville. He has designed and implemented two distance learning/online art programs, the Art Studio Chalkboard and the Figure Drawing Lab, where students can interact and share their work in an online classroom. When he's not teaching or tinkering with his programs, Mr. Larmann continues to produce prodigious amounts of art – he has worked as a trompe l'oeil and broken tile muralist, designed web sites, and has had his work displayed in a number of galleries including the Evansville Museum of Arts and Science and the Indianapolis Museum of Art. He has also been published in FATE in Review and ArtExperience magazines.
Article Resources:
University of Evansville
Strayer University
The Online Art School Checklist: How to Know You Have Found an Excellent Online Program
The instructors are experts in their field.
Once you have selected the type of art you would like to pursue a degree in, make sure the instructors have expertise in that area. Do research on the instructors to find out if they have created, sold, or studied the art you plan to pursue. You want to learn from artists who are skilled in your preferred art form. If you have time, contact the professors who interest you before enrolling to get a feel for their instruction style and methodology.
The school specializes in the types of art that interest you.
You may have been accepted into a school that has a great reputation and fantastic teachers, but if the institution is not known for the type of art you hope to specialize in, it is probably not the right fit. Before deciding on a program, speak with the school. If you want to pursue studio art, ask about the resources and faculty they have on hand. If you are interested in graphic design, ask what courses they offer. Taking the time to do this extra research will save you a great deal of aggravation later on.
The school has excellent financial aid resources.
Paying for college is not easy but don't rule out a school simply because of the "sticker price." Get in touch with the financial aid office and talk about options. A good school will be able to point you in the direction of scholarship and loan opportunities. Conversely, if you run into a school that's financial aid office is unhelpful, you may want to rethink your decision to attend.
The school is the right size.
Class size is important, even in an online school and especially in art school. Since so much of art takes constant critiquing and improving, it is vital that your teacher has enough time to give you the personal attention you deserve. Before enrolling in a program, make sure your class sizes are manageable.
The school provides networking opportunities.
Many people think online schools are very solitary, providing little interaction with peers and professors. However, contrary to popular belief, a good online art school will provide you with opportunities to network with your peers and other artists. This may be done through email, chats, and video-conferencing, or through local events and art gatherings. Take advantage of any of the opportunities your school offers because they can help spark your creative juices and provide you contacts for jobs following graduation.
The faculty members are easy to contact.
A classic sign of a bad online institution is a faculty that is forever out of reach. Before enrolling in any program, make sure that you are able to get in touch with administrators from the school and professors. It is important for any good art school to provide steady contact.
The school accepts transfer credits.
It is important that any school you attend offers you the ability to transfer credits. Not only is this a sign that a school's programs are nationally accepted, but it is also important in case you need to take courses at other institutions or are interested in transferring to a different school. Talk to the registrar office to make sure your school accepts and offers transfer credits.
The faculty is passionate about what they teach.
One of the easiest ways to have a negative experience in a classroom is when your teacher is not excited about their subject. Before enrolling in a program, it may be a good idea to speak with some of the professors over email or phone to talk them about their class. If this doesn't give you enough information, talk to alums. They will likely give you good, solid information.
The school has a good reputation.
The reputation of the art school you select does matter. Not all art schools are the same, and a degree from an unaccredited institution with instructors who have no artistic background will not be worth as much as a degree from an accredited school with expert instructors. Research the reputation of your preferred online art school by visiting the school's website, accessing summaries of the classes, and finding out where the instructor's earned their degrees.
The alumni are successful.
A mark of a good art school is its alumni. Access the school's alumni database and contact several alums to talk to them about their experiences at the school and to find out what they ended up doing after graduation. They will be able to tell you a lot, and their attitude about the school may influence your decision.
The school has available resources.
A lot of a student's time during art school is spent fine-tuning his or her art. Traditional art schools give students access to materials and spaces in which they can be creative. Make sure your school offers these advantages.
The art school will help you get a job.
One of the most important things to look for in a good online school is the opportunities it provides for career placement after graduation. The school should offer internship opportunities during your time there that can lead to a permanent position post-graduation. You should also look for a school with a solid career services department that has a proven track record of placing graduates in jobs. Find out what your school offers by calling the career office and talking to them directly.
The school is accredited.
There are a lot of online art schools available to you, and you want to be careful that you are not choosing one that is not legitimate. Many schools that are not accredited will issue you a degree simply for paying tuition. This will not be worth anything to you as you enter the job market. Make sure your school is accredited by a legitimate accrediting agency so that all the work you put into your art program is recognized.
Article Resources:
Academy of Art University Online
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh
How to Avoid Art School Online Diploma Mill Scams
When it comes to education, an increasing number of people are discovering the benefits of furthering their education online. However, with the rise of online universities also comes an increase in college diploma scams. College diploma scams are usually from diploma mills who sell college educations like girl scout cookies.
According to the Department of Education, a diploma mill is an institute of higher education that is operating without supervision of a state or professional agency and granting diplomas that are either fraudulent or, because of the lack of proper standards, worthless. Unfortunately, college diploma scams can be a little hard to spot if you are not trained to know what to look for.
8 Signs of Diploma Scams
Number 1: Lack of Accreditation
The most important thing to look for when it comes to an online education is accreditation. Accreditation is a lengthy process in which a commissioning body of higher education rates the school with regard to quality standards. There are several accrediting agencies across the United States and nearly 7,000 post secondary colleges, universities, career and trade schools that have accreditation. To ensure that you are not getting trapped into a diploma scam, check out the Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation where you will find a list of accredited institutions and accreditation types offered.
Number 2: Tuition Discounts
Examine the cost of the diploma. Many diploma scams will offer a discount if you 'join now' or if you enroll in several degree programs. This is not how the education system works. Another way to uncover a diploma scam is to look at the payment plan - if the payment is on a per degree basis instead of the standard per semester basis then there is something amiss.
Number 3: Rapid Completion Time
Check for the speed of completion. Online diploma scams may promise that you can complete your degree in less than two years. This is a sure sign of a diploma scam - college is not something anyone can rush through. It takes time, hard work, and dedication - three aspects that diploma mills most certainly do not respect.
Number 4: Feigned School Name
Many online diploma mills will have a play on words in the title that is similar to a respected university or school. Often the school names will sound British, such as "The University of Oxfordinshire". Do your research on the name of the school to uncover the truth.
Number 5: They Spam You
If their main method of advertising is through spam or pop ups, then they are most likely a diploma scam. Those annoying pop up messages promising a degree in 80 days have hit us all. This is a clear sign of a diploma scam.
Number 6: Professionalism
If there are any spelling errors or unprofessional aspects to the website, it is most likely a scam. Accredited colleges and universities take the time to project a credible and professional image to the public. Many diploma mill websites may look fancy but lack the links to reputable sources.
Number 7: Contact Information
Another thing to look for is the contact information - do they have a real address or is their main address simply a PO Box number or suite number to an apartment?
Number 8: Legitimacy
Finally, make sure you do the research into any online educational program. Check the DOE websites, compare the various costs involved, look for stamps of approval through accreditation and check for course transfer and credit.
Article Resources:
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
The Department of Education
