Fine Arts Career Services:: The University of Texas at Austin

Prospective Students

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GUESTS : Parent Q & A

What can you do with a Fine Arts degree?

The real question is "What can't you do with a fine arts degree?" And the answer is simple. The job options are as wide and varied as a student's interests and talents. Conversely, the more limited the student is, the more limited are his or her choices. Some options may provide less financial stability, while others will require graduate school, but the possibilities are endless. Students graduating from the College of Fine Arts pursue a variety of career opportunities. Some create successful careers in the visual and performing arts. Others major in the fine arts just because they love the discipline, planning all along to work in another field.

How soon can my son/daughter use the Fine Arts Career Services (FACS)?

As soon as he/she is registered as student in the College of Fine Arts.

Will Fine Arts Career Services find my son/daughter a job?

No. Unfortunately, we can’t promise to find a job for anyone. But we can promise to provide resources and information that will make your child’s job search much easier.

What kinds of jobs do UT Fine Arts majors find?

First jobs for undergraduate alumni have included: choir and band director, music festival administrator, orchestra member, dancer, actor, artist's assistant, media producer, choreographer, web designer, media producer, publicity assistant, assistant designer, marketing segment specialist, junior designer, graphics editor, visual merchandiser, investor services representative, computer support coordinator, architectural intern, technical support representative, marketing director, gallery assistant, exhibit coordinator, development assistant, library assistant, music teacher, art teacher, theatre teacher, and dance teacher.

What can I do to help my child be better prepared for life after graduation?

Support him/her in the exploration of new areas of study and interests. Expect some indecision and uncertainty.
Encourage him/her to explore possible career interests through internships, volunteer, part-time job, and freelance opportunities.
Encourage him/her to get to know College of Fine Art’s faculty and staff and take advantage of the many campus resources available.
Encourage him/her to develop business, computer, writing, and speaking skills.

Will my son or daughter be able to find a job when he or she graduates?

The arts are very competitive, and often there is a certain amount of luck required to be a smash early in one's career. While there are no guarantees that a degree in any field will help someone land a job, the student who is well-informed and makes the right choices while enrolled will have a better chance of finding gainful employment. This is true of both the traditional artist and the student who wants to apply her skills in other areas.

Can my child get health care and other benefits as an artist?

Yes. The Artists' Health Insurance Resource Center assists those in the arts with finding information on health insurance options nationwide. For actors, dancers, musicians, and visual artists in Texas, the Texas Arts Medicine Center in Houston offers a variety of services, including a monthly free clinic and access to affordable health care. Performers who join the trade union for their profession will have access to health insurance and pension plans through their respective unions. For others, there are many different types of individual retirement savings plans. Check out the U.S. Department of Labor website on savings and retirement plans for more information.


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