Design Your Future

Whether you're interested in fine art, fashion, computer arts, graphic design or motion pictures and video, an education in North America can offer you excellent exposure to cutting-edge techniques and professional training.

The U.S.A. is at the forefront of the digital arts revolution, with the expanding entertainment industry creating the need for new technology, creative concepts and fresh talent. The global success of special effects films, which rely heavily on artists from many disciplines, has bolstered the position of the U.S.A., and California in particular, as a leader in digital arts.

Since the arts are an international language, your talents and abilities will translate well when you enter the U.S. program.

Wide Variety of Programs

You can find arts programs to suit your interests in many regions of the U.S.A. and in Canada. You can aspire to a two-year, four-year or graduate degree, an Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's or doctorate.

Or choose an institute dedicated to your specific interest. For example, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in California has prepared students for careers in the gem and fine jewelry industry. GIA offers diploma programs and courses in diamond grading, jewelry design, and jewelry business management.

Because music cuts across language barriers, music therapy is becoming widespread to treat disorders such as autism and to communicate with elderly and ill people. Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University in Virginia offers specialized programs like music therapy, arts management, commercial music, voice, dance and music theater.

Selecting a Program

Who better to learn from than professionals who are already established and recognized for their accomplishments? In other words, the faculty should boast many practicing artists and designers.

The school should also have a commitment to investing in new equipment, since the industry is continually updating its technology. Internships, work experience and job placement are also important factors to consider; the school should have contacts with the industry and assist its graduates with placement through recruitment drives, portfolio reviews and workshops. Find out where the graduates are working.

Lastly, the reputation of the school is important. Do professionals in the field speak highly of the school? Does it have accreditation through organizations such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design or the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools?

The Academy of Art University is an example of a school that continues to graduate artists and designers who gain employment with leading firms, including Disney, Lucas Arts, Pixar, Donna Karan and Hallmark. Located in San Francisco, the school has B.F.A., A.A., M.F.A. and Certificate programs in ten art and design majors.

Some community colleges offer numerous career-related arts programs. Good examples are Monterey Peninsula College's degrees in Art History, Graphic Arts, Interior Design, Cinema/Video, Drama (Acting, Directing and Technical Theatre), Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Jewelry, Sculpture, Weaving, Apparel Design and Alterations, Fashion Consulting, Fashion Merchandising, Textile Design, Costuming and General Studio.

Pursuing your Goals

Admission to arts programs varies widely; some schools require portfolios with examples of artwork, or performance auditions, while others do not. Check also whether TOEFL scores are necessary. No matter what the admission requirements are, take the time to select the program that is right for you. Try to talk with students and alumni, and if possible, visit the campus to get a better sense of the environment.

As schools in North America embrace new technology and ideas, it has become a uniquely creative place to study. With training, you can develop your talent and achieve your professional objectives.

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