Think Art School Isn’t a “Real” Career Path? Think Again! (And Why Montserrat is Your Best Bet!)
Are you (or your parents!) wondering if pursuing an art degree is really a smart move for your future? Maybe you’ve heard whispers like, “What kind of job can you get with an art degree?” or “Is art a stable career?” Well, we’re here to bust those myths wide open with some data straight from Massachusetts!
At Montserrat College of Art, we know the power of creativity, and it’s not just about making beautiful things – it’s about building a thriving career. Let’s dive into some eye-opening facts about the creative economy, both nationally and right here in Massachusetts, and see why investing in an art education at Montserrat is a fantastic value.
The Creative Economy is booming!
Forget what you thought you knew about the arts. The creative and cultural sector is a powerhouse!
- Nationally: In 2022, the arts and culture industry was a massive $1.102 TRILLION industry in the U.S. – that’s a huge 4.31% of the nation’s entire GDP! It supported 5.2 million jobs across the country. So, yes, there are a lot of jobs in the arts!
- Right Here in Massachusetts: Our home state’s arts and culture sector is pulling its weight, too! In 2022, it was a $28.6 BILLION industry, making up 4.13% of the state’s GDP. Even better, it supported 133,773 jobs in Massachusetts alone. That’s more jobs than transportation!
What does this mean for you? It means the creative industries are a significant, stable, and growing part of our economy, offering tons of diverse opportunities for talented individuals like you.
Beyond the Canvas: Real Jobs, Real Impact, Real Money!
Sometimes people think “art” means just painting, but the creative sector is so much broader. It includes everything from animation and graphic design to game development, illustration, photography, film, and even art education and therapy! All those fields need creative problem-solvers – people with the skills you’ll build at Montserrat.
The non-profit arts and culture industry alone generates $151.7 BILLION in economic activity annually across the U.S., supporting 2.6 million jobs. This activity even generated $29.1 billion in total tax revenue for governments in 2022! Your passion can truly power communities and economies.
Why Montserrat? It’s All About Value!
So, with all these amazing opportunities out there, why choose Montserrat College of Art? It’s simple: we’re designed to connect your artistic talent directly to these thriving industries. Our education is a smart investment because we focus on:
- Career-Focused Education: We don’t just teach you how to make art; we teach you how to make a career in art. Our Career Design Studio is dedicated to ensuring you’re ready for the professional world.
- Required Internships: Every Montserrat student completes a required 90+ hour internship in the creative industry before graduating. This means you gain real-world experience, build your professional network, and enhance your portfolio even before you get your diploma!
- Mentorship Opportunities: Imagine getting one-on-one guidance from established professionals in your chosen field – many of whom are successful Montserrat alumni! Our Mentorship Program connects you directly to industry experts for personalized career coaching.
- Customizable Paths: Our “Designing Your Montserrat” philosophy lets you tailor your education with flexible BFA programs and diverse minors (like Entrepreneurship in the Arts or Creative Writing). This means you can craft a unique degree that perfectly matches your vision for your creative career.
- Location, Location, Location! Massachusetts is a hub for arts and culture, with 45 cultural districts across the Commonwealth. From museums and galleries in Boston, Northampton, and Stockbridge to vibrant creative communities like Beverly and Salem, you’ll be studying in an environment rich with artistic opportunities.
- Supported by the State: The Massachusetts cultural sector receives significant state funding, including $25 million for Mass Cultural Council programs and services in FY24, and $10 million for the Cultural Facilities Fund. This continued investment in the arts reinforces the strong ecosystem you’ll be joining.
Choosing an art education, especially one as focused on career readiness and real-world experience as Montserrat’s, is a powerful decision. It’s not just about pursuing your passion; it’s about making a valuable investment in a booming industry that needs your creativity.
Ready to see how Montserrat can help you design your future in the arts? Explore our programs and start your journey today!