Why Pursue an Online Degree in Performing Arts?

If you're a die-hard fan of the arts with a passion for performance, an online degree in performing arts may be right up your alley. The methods of commanding a stage or the silver screen are complex, and a performing arts degree may equip you with all the tools necessary to turn your talent into a career.

Performing artists work with some of the most creative minds in show business, including those who have studied stage design, lighting, acting, film and other areas of the business to make a mark in one of the most competitive fields in the working world.

As a professional performing artist, you could be working with these people daily. It's important to have a proper education that will make you into a capable artist and show other professionals you have the chops to make it in the world of entertainment.

A glimpse into the realm of performing arts

Pursuing a degree in this field could equip students with the skills necessary to jumpstart a career in music, dance, theater, video and more. While some people may claim performing artists do not require a formal education, it's becoming obvious - to stand out in this highly competitive field - a more structured education may be necessary. Not only does pursuing a degree in performing arts help prepare you to spend time on a stage practicing, rehearsing and performing next to seasoned professionals, a more formal education could put you in shows that may build your portfolio and put you in touch with people whose connections are incredibly valuable for a performing arts career.

Performing arts degrees encompass several different specialties for extroverts and introverts alike. For those trying to command the attention of the room and inspire with their craft, a specialty in music, dancing or acting may be best. On the other hand, performing arts needs just as many videographers, choreographers, directors and stage designers. Pursuing a degree in performing arts could put you on track to pursue a multitude of exciting career paths in numerous sectors of the job market.

Possible salaries for a career in performing arts

Salaries may be influenced by skill set, education, industry, location and more. Consider the following careers, with statistics compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

  • Producers and directors: 2012 Median annual salary of $71,350 (3 percent projected growth through 2022)[i]
  • Film and video editors: 2012 Median annual salary of $46,280 (3 percent projected growth through 2022)[ii]
  • Music directors and composers: 2012 Median annual salary of $47,350 (5 percent projected growth through 2022)[iii]

Additional skills required for a career in fine arts

It's important to realize that performing arts takes massive dedication and hard work. Your peers will be driven by their passions and overcoming the competition takes a huge amount of devotion, practice and natural talent. Additionally, you should know that your work will be critiqued by numerous critics. It's important to develop a strong fortitude in performing arts.


[i] bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/producers-and-directors.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/music-directors-and-composers.htm