Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Transform your creativity into expertise with Fine Arts Degree Online Programs. Study art history, refine techniques, and craft your vision through flexible and engaging virtual learning.
Fine Arts degree online programs offer aspiring artists a flexible pathway to develop their creative talents and pursue careers in the arts. These programs combine foundational art history, theory, and critique coursework with hands-on studio classes in various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, graphic design, and digital media. Students gain technical skills and artistic insight through interactive online platforms, virtual critiques, and project-based learning. Many online BFA degree programs allow students to specialize in photography, animation, or visual communication. Designed for creative individuals balancing education with other commitments, these programs foster artistic growth while providing the convenience of online learning. Graduates are prepared for roles in the arts, design, and creative industries.
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Featured Online Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Degree Programs
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
The best Fine Arts degree online programs focus on studio practice while integrating art theory, creative context, and professional development. Selecting a program that aligns with individual goals is essential. Key factors include accreditation, tuition costs, financial aid options, career opportunities, faculty quality, admission criteria, graduation rates, and program structure. Comparing these elements ensures students find an online BFA program tailored to their personal, academic, and career aspirations. The teams at FBD have researched the best online BFA degree program using our proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Academy of Art University | 79 New Montgomery, San Francisco, California 94105 | $28,024 | 40% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
An online BFA degree combines creativity with flexibility, allowing students to explore their passion for visual arts, design, or multimedia. Programs typically require between 120 and 130 credits, encompassing drawing, painting, digital media, and art history courses. Students may also participate in virtual critiques and collaborative projects. Completion timelines often range from four to six years for a bachelor’s degree, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Practical experience is emphasized through studio-based assignments and portfolio development. Many programs also integrate liberal arts education to provide a well-rounded perspective. Graduates can pursue careers in graphic design, animation, art education, or freelance artistry, among other creative industries. For more detailed information, read the guide to bachelor’s programs.
Curriculum and Coursework
The Bachelor of Fine Arts online program curriculum focuses on developing artistic abilities and creative expression. Students engage in various projects to enhance technical and conceptual skills while encouraging independent thinking. The program fosters exploration across different mediums and artistic styles, helping students refine their unique artistic voice. Emphasis is placed on developing a strong portfolio, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate artistic ideas, preparing graduates for various careers in the arts. Some of the subjects included in the online BFA degree program are:
- Introduction to Creative Writing: This course explores the fundamentals of writing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. Students develop storytelling techniques, experiment with different genres, and enhance their writing style. The course encourages creativity and self-expression and provides a foundation for further advanced writing studies.
- Introduction to Literature: This course explores diverse literary works, including poetry, fiction, and drama. Students analyze themes, literary devices, and cultural contexts, developing critical thinking and interpretation skills. The course fosters an appreciation for literature’s role in shaping human experience.
- Exploring Artistic Vision: This course encourages students to develop a personal, unique perspective in their art. The course focuses on creative experimentation, conceptualization, and the ability to translate ideas into visual forms. Students explore different mediums and techniques to express their artistic voices and visions.
- Exploring Artistic Vision: This course emphasizes the development of a personal and distinctive artistic perspective. Students are encouraged to experiment with various media and techniques while reflecting on their ideas, emotions, and cultural influences. The course fosters critical thinking, conceptualization, and the ability to communicate complex visual narratives, helping students refine their unique artistic voice and vision.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
A Fine Arts degree online helps students understand artistic practices and concepts deeply, fostering creativity and technical proficiency. Students enhance their ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate through visual art. Graduates develop strong artistic techniques, conceptual skills, and the ability to express ideas clearly. The program prepares students for careers in various creative fields, including visual arts, design, and art education, while cultivating a broad appreciation for the role of art in society. Below are some learning outcomes of the bachelor of fine arts online programs:
- Create a cohesive and original portfolio of visual work that communicates a clear artistic message.
- Apply advanced research and creative methods to solve complex challenges at a professional level.
- Exhibit technical expertise in using relevant media and technologies within a specific artistic field.
- Demonstrate the professionalism necessary to succeed in their chosen art discipline.
- Defend their artistic body of work with written and visual evidence supporting its purpose and significance.
- Analyze historical trends and their influence on contemporary art practices and theory.
- Master representational techniques in painting, drawing, and visual storytelling.
Types of Degrees Fine Arts Students Can Obtain
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts typically earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA), which offers a well-rounded education in artistic theory, practice, and creative expression. Some schools may offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Fine Arts, though it is less common, with a stronger emphasis on technical skills, research, and analytics. Both degrees provide students with the necessary foundation to pursue careers in various creative industries, including visual arts, design, and education.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fine Arts
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fine Arts focuses on cultivating creative expression and artistic skills through a broad exploration of visual arts, design, and theory. Students engage in a liberal arts curriculum, developing critical thinking, technical abilities, and a personal artistic style, preparing them for diverse art-related careers.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Fine Arts
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Fine Arts emphasizes a more technical and research-oriented approach to art. Students focus on developing proficiency in various artistic mediums while integrating scientific methods, data analysis, and technology. This degree prepares graduates for roles that require both creativity and analytical skills in the arts.
Areas of Specialization for Fine Arts Students
A Bachelor of Fine Arts program allows students to concentrate on specific areas of interest, enabling them to tailor their education to their creative goals. Students gain deeper expertise and refine their skills by focusing on a particular aspect of art. This personalized approach fosters a strong, unique artistic identity. It prepares graduates for careers in specialized fields, ensuring they can excel in their chosen discipline while maintaining a broad foundation in artistic practices. Here are some specializations that students of online BFA degree students can pursue:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Arts | This specialization emphasizes exploring and mastering traditional and contemporary art forms, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography. Students develop their technical skills, creativity, and conceptual thinking while experimenting with various media and techniques to create unique, expressive works of art. | Visual Artist Art Curator Art Educator Gallery Director |
| Theatre and Dance | This specialization focuses on performance techniques, choreography, and stage production. Students develop their skills in acting, dance, and movement while exploring performance’s artistic, cultural, and historical aspects. This specialization fosters creativity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the performing arts. | Stage Director Choreographer Theatre Production Manager Dance Instructor |
| Music | This specialization focuses on developing performance, composition, and music theory skills. Students explore various musical styles, instruments, and vocal techniques while deepening their understanding of music’s role in culture and expression. This specialization fosters creativity and technical proficiency in the art of music. | Musician Composer Music Producer Sound Engineer |
| Creative Writing | This specialization focuses on developing students’ storytelling abilities across multiple genres, including fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. Students refine their voices, explore different narrative techniques, and critically analyze, fostering a deep understanding of the craft and artistic expression. | Author Editor Literary Agent Copywriter |
Full-Time and Part-Time Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
Bachelor of Fine Arts programs offer full-time and part-time options to fit various schedules. Full-time students usually complete the degree in 4 years, while part-time students may take 5-6 years, depending on their course load. Accelerated programs enable motivated students to finish in as little as 3 years. These flexible paths allow students to manage personal, professional, and academic responsibilities while gaining a thorough education in the arts.
Accelerated Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
An accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts program allows students to complete their degree in a shorter time frame, typically 3 years instead of 4. This intensive approach helps students graduate faster, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in the arts or further studies. By compressing coursework and increasing focus, accelerated programs enable students to quickly enter the workforce or pursue advanced education, providing a faster pathway to achieving their artistic and professional goals. Here is an example of a university that offers accelerated bachelor of fine arts online programs:
Requirements for Getting into Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
The admission process for an online Fine Arts degree program varies by institution, though it generally follows standard procedures. Prospective students should be aware that each school may have unique expectations in addition to basic admission guidelines. It’s essential for applicants to carefully review the specific program details and deadlines to ensure they meet all necessary criteria and submit the required materials on time. This will help streamline the application process and improve their chances of acceptance. In general, however, these are the most common and basic bachelor of fine arts online program admission requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Portfolio showcasing artistic work or creative projects
- Personal statement or essay outlining artistic goals and interests
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors
- Proof of standardized test scores (if required by the institution)
- Resume or list of relevant extracurricular or artistic experiences
- Interview or audition (in some cases) to assess artistic abilities
How to Ensure a Fine Arts Degree Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that a university or program meets established academic standards and provides quality education. For students, attending an accredited institution ensures their degree is recognized by employers and other educational institutions, enhancing career and further study opportunities. For universities, accreditation demonstrates their commitment to maintaining high educational standards, fostering trust with students and stakeholders, and ensuring eligibility for federal financial aid. It also encourages continuous improvement and accountability within academic programs and practices.
In the study of fine arts, some specific programs may be programmatically accredited by agencies such as:
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)[2]
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)[3]
- National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)[4]
- National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD)[5]
- Council of Arts Accrediting Associations (CAAA)[6]
- National Office for Arts Accreditation (NOAA)[7]
Universities can be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Read the guide to college accreditation to learn more about the accreditation process.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Fine Arts Degree Online Students
Free online courses allow students to enhance their knowledge and skills in various subjects, including fine arts. These courses provide valuable insights into specific topics, helping learners deepen their understanding and stay up-to-date with current trends. While these courses are educational and enriching, they do not provide official accreditation, meaning they may not count toward a formal degree. Nevertheless, they are useful resources for personal growth and skill development in a flexible, accessible format. Here are a few free online courses for online BFA degree students to consider:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Ceramics and Pottery Theory[8] | This course explores the history and techniques of ceramics. It covers hand-building and wheel-throwing methods while blending practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Students learn about the cultural significance of ceramics, from ancient traditions to modern-day artistry, and develop their creative abilities. | Alison |
| The Craft of Storytelling[9] | This course is designed to teach the art of compelling storytelling. It covers techniques for engaging audiences in public speaking, social media, creative writing, and daily conversations. Learn how to craft captivating narratives, including your personal story, to captivate, educate, and influence others. | edX |
| How to Write a Novel: Writing the Draft[10] | This course is designed for writers tackling their first drafts. Taught by international best-selling authors and professors, it covers essential fiction techniques, including character development, plot structure, and dialogue. Through exercises, examples, and peer feedback, students gain practical tools to refine their drafts and overcome common writing challenges. Ideal for aspiring novelists, this course helps turn creative ideas into polished, compelling stories. | edX |
Ways to Pay for a Fine Arts Degree Online Program
Rising tuition fees can make obtaining a Fine Arts degree online challenging for many students. Financial limitations may hinder individuals from reaching their academic and professional goals. Exploring funding options, budgeting wisely, and researching available scholarships or grants are essential to managing costs. Understanding the long-term benefits of investing in education can ease financial stress, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and career aspirations without financial concerns. Here are a few ways bachelor of fine arts online programs students can fund their program:
Government loans
Government loans are financial aid options federal or state governments provide to help students pay for their education. These loans typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than private loans. They may be need-based or available to all students, with options such as subsidized or unsubsidized loans.
Scholarships are financial awards that help students fund their education. They can be merit-based, need-based, or awarded for specific achievements. Scholarships do not require repayment, making them a valuable resource for reducing education costs.
Grants are financial awards that help students pay for their education and do not require repayment. Typically based on financial need or specific criteria, grants can come from federal or state governments, educational institutions, or private organizations, making them a valuable resource for reducing tuition costs.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships are opportunities universities offer where students work part-time in exchange for financial support, typically through tuition remission and a stipend. These positions allow students to assist with teaching, research, or administrative tasks, providing valuable professional experience while helping to offset the cost of graduate education.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form students complete to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs, helping reduce education costs.
Scholarships for Fine Arts Degree Online Students
Scholarships provide a valuable way to finance online bachelor of fine arts programs, offering partial and full funding without requiring repayment. These awards can be based on merit, financial need, athletic accomplishments, or other achievements, helping students pursue their education without the burden of loans. Here are a few scholarships for online BFA degree students:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stantec Equity & Diversity Scholarship[11] | The Stantec Equity & Diversity Scholarship is designed to support aspiring leaders and advocates focused on promoting diversity in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) careers. It specifically targets students from historically underrepresented Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, fostering a more inclusive workforce. | $1500 to $10,000 | Varies |
| F. Lammot Belin Arts Scholarship[12] | The F. Lammot Belin Arts Scholarship provides financial aid to talented artists with great potential in various fine arts disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, music, drama, dance, literature, and architecture. This scholarship aims to support recipients in their journey toward becoming professional and successful artists in their chosen fields. | Up to $10,000 | January annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Fine Arts Degree Online
Graduates of a fine arts degree online have various career opportunities across various industries. Companies and organizations seek professionals with strong verbal and visual communication abilities, and a bachelor of fine arts can significantly enhance one’s ability to create distinctive, insightful, and impactful art. The career trajectory of bachelor of fine arts graduates is largely influenced by their area of focus or specialization, allowing them to pursue roles that align with their creative talents and professional goals. Here are a few occupations with their job descriptions, median pay, and job outlook for students graduating with bachelor of fine arts online programs:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Effects Artists and Animators[13] | Analytical skills, Communication skills, detail-oriented, problem-solving skills | $99,060 | 4% (as fast as average) | Special effects artists and animators use specialized software to craft dynamic two- and three-dimensional visuals for movies, games, and TV. They collaborate with teams to design characters, backgrounds, or effects, ensuring realism and quality. Their work shapes immersive visual experiences across various entertainment mediums, from creating CGI to animating lifelike movements. |
| Art Directors[14] | Communication skills, detail-oriented, problem-solving skills | $106,500 | 5% (as fast as average) | Art directors oversee the visual style and design for magazines, movies, and advertisements. They lead teams to determine how best to represent concepts visually, select design elements, and manage projects. Their duties include coordinating with clients, approving artwork, and ensuring projects meet budget and timeline goals. |
| Writers and Authors[15] | Analytical skills, Communication skills, detail-oriented, problem-solving skills | $73,690 | 5% (as fast as average) | Writers and authors create content for various media, including books, advertisements, blogs, and scripts for films or television. Their duties include researching, writing fiction or nonfiction, editing drafts, and working closely with editors and clients. Some may work as freelancers, selling content to publishers, agencies, or producers. |
| Music Directors & Composers[16] | Analytical skills, Communication skills, detail-oriented, problem-solving skills, creative skills | $62,590 | 3% (as fast as average) | Music directors, or conductors, lead orchestras and musical groups during performances and recordings. They select compositions, prepare musical scores, direct rehearsals, and ensure coherent sound across the group. Composers create original music, arrange existing pieces, write lyrics, and collaborate with musicians for performances and recordings. |
Certifications and Licensing for Fine Arts Degree Online Graduates
Certifications offer a valuable opportunity to advance careers and gain specialized knowledge without the extensive time or cost of traditional academic programs. Tailored for professionals, they help stay updated on industry trends and best practices. In fine arts, certifications align with specific fields, such as visual arts, creative writing, or design, enhancing expertise. Here are a few certifications online BFA degree graduates can explore:
Adobe Certified Professional (ACP)[17]
The Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) certification showcases expertise in Adobe’s industry-leading creative software, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. It validates technical skills and creative proficiency, making it ideal for aspiring designers, video editors, and digital artists. This credential enhances career prospects in the competitive creative industry.
Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC)[18]
The Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) credential, offered by the Society for Technical Communication, validates expertise in technical communication. It demonstrates proficiency in creating explicit, effective content for various audiences and industries. The CPTC is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their skills, credibility, and career opportunities in communication.
Additional Resources for Fine Arts Degree Online Graduates
Aspiring artists constantly seek ways to improve their skills and clarify their artistic goals. Staying updated with industry trends and accessing reliable resources are key to their growth. Joining professional organizations can connect graduates with peers and experts, fostering collaboration and networking. The most effective resources are those trusted and frequently utilized by established fine arts professionals, providing inspiration and guidance throughout an artist’s career. Here are a few resources that online BFA degree students can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) | The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), established in 1944, accredits institutions offering art and design programs, ensuring high educational standards. With over 328 members, it supports artistic, educational, and scholarly endeavors. NASAD provides resources on accreditation, program development, and guidance for students, artists, and educators. |
| College Art Association (CAA) | The College Art Association (CAA) is a leading organization supporting visual arts and art history professionals. It offers resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for artists, scholars, and educators. CAA hosts annual conferences, publishes scholarly journals, and promotes excellence in teaching, research, and creative practices in the arts. |
| National Art Education Association (NAEA) | The National Art Education Association (NAEA) is a professional organization advancing visual arts education. It supports educators, students, and advocates through resources, conferences, and professional development. NAEA promotes the importance of art in education, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness in schools and communities nationwide. |
| American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) | The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) is the oldest professional design organization in the United States. It supports graphic designers through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities. AIGA hosts events, provides resources, and fosters community engagement, helping designers stay innovative and advance their careers in the dynamic design field. |
| American Crafts Council (ACC) | The American Craft Council (ACC) introduced a strategic framework in July 2023 to refine its mission and priorities. Developed through extensive planning, it aligns ACC’s 80-year history with modern goals. The framework emphasizes equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, guiding a multiyear plan to advance crafts and foster community engagement. |
FAQs About Fine Arts Degree Online Programs
What is a BFA degree?
A BFA is an undergraduate degree focused on intensive study and practice in the visual, performing, or creative arts. It combines studio work, technical training, and theoretical studies, preparing students for careers in artistic fields or further specialization through advanced studies in fine arts disciplines.
How long does it take to complete a bachelor of fine arts online program?
Are bachelor of fine arts online degrees offered by accredited universities?
How do online classes work for bachelor of fine arts degrees?
What can you do with a bachelor of fine arts?
Will I be able to work full-time while pursuing an online fine arts degree program?
Is an online fine arts degree program worth it?
Citations:
National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD)
Council of Arts Accrediting Associations (CAAA)
National Office for Arts Accreditation (NOAA)
Alison- Introduction to Ceramics and Pottery Theory
edX- The Craft of Storytelling
edX- How to Write a Novel: Writing the Draft
Stantec Equity & Diversity Scholarship
F. Lammot Belin Arts Scholarship
Special Effects Artists and Animators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Art Directors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Writers and Authors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Music Directors & Composers