Bachelor of arts degrees are awarded at the undergraduate level in humanities-based programs, including courses related specifically to art. These degrees enable students to major in any of the arts or sciences while still gaining a broad liberal arts education. The well rounded education that bachelor of arts degrees provide can be useful when searching for a job or trying to impress a potential employer looking for people with a broad range of knowledge and skills.
Bachelor of fine arts degrees are an option for undergraduates interested in pursuing a specific artistic field. They generally require fewer broad educational requirements in favor of more courses concentrating on visual art, music, design or performance arts. This is an excellent option for students intending to pursue a career or graduate school in the visual, musical or performing arts.
Master of arts degrees are a broad graduate degree available in most humanities-based subjects. They place much more focus on academic range than do the master of fine arts degrees, generally requiring degree candidates to conduct academic research. Master of arts degrees are available at nearly every university or college. Upper management professional career paths often require at least a master of arts.
Master of Fine Arts degrees are the highest graduate degree level awarded in most artistic disciplines. They provide intense hands-on experience for aspiring visual artists, writers, dancers, musicians and actors. Some colleges and universities have MFA programs in specific fields, and many students choose to go to schools specializing only in visual art or performance art.