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Art and Design: driving the technological renaissance
A plethora of different jobs can be found within the world of art and design, says JAMES DONALD. The only problem is, so many people are after them. Design, photography, fashion, journalism, music, theatre, fine art, illustration. Just some of the wide range of courses covered by the art and design umbrella at postgraduate level.
“Individuals make the major, and often life-changing, commitment to study at postgraduate level for a variety of reasons,” says Samantha Kirby of the University College Falmouth in Cornwall, England. “Postgraduate study is your chance to specialize.” A postgraduate qualification is the bridge between having a talent for art and design and making a living out of that talent. “Falmouth combines the vocational with the non-vocational; you develop personal research interests, while learning practical skills and gaining insight into career paths. Students find inspiration here but also make professional contacts that will endure throughout your career.”
At the Academy of Art University in San Francisco great emphasis is also placed upon preparation for future careers: “The Academy of Art University graduate programs are designed for students who desire to improve their portfolio,” says Jeff Chromy. “Because Academy of Art University’s Graduate School is so portfolio-driven, alumni have an edge in the job market as having a tangible portfolio to hand to potential employers is a graduate’s ticket to a successful career.” Academy of Art University offers MFA and M.Arch degrees in 12 areas of art and design emphasis. Programs include: Advertising, Animation, Architecture (M.Arch), Computer Arts: New Media, Fashion, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture and Design, Motion Pictures and Television and Photography. Students can take classes in copywriting, fashion merchandising, sculpture, cinematography, digital photography, car design and much more. Students can also enroll in a flexible online degree program.
“Through the Academy of Art University intensive and advanced graduate degree programs, students can develop and enhance portfolios fit for industry needs,” continues Jeff. “The Academy offers studio courses that expose students to a range of hands-on art and design projects. Graduate students also have the unique opportunity to work one-on-one with an Academy instructor or industry professional of their choice to develop specific conceptual and technical skills to help them successfully bring their final thesis project to completion.”
The Academy of Art also runs many industry events where students can network with professionals in their chose field. “The Annual Spring Show brings in art and design industry professionals from all over the country,” says Jeff. “Students have the unique opportunity to present their portfolios and some get hired on the spot! Academy MFA Fashion students have the privilege as the only school invited to Bryant Park to show their collections to the world at New York Fashion Week.”
”Graduates can think outside of the box – and make a living doing what they love."
“A postgraduate degree from Academy of Art University demonstrates the ability to balance the creative with the practical,” continues Jeff. ”Graduates can think outside of the box – and make a living doing what they love. Academy graduates carry a professional reputation that gives them an edge in the marketplace. The list of companies that hire graduates every year reads like a who’s who list of art and design. New media alumni are driving the booming technological renaissance, while fine art and photography students are filling galleries all over the world.”
Samantha Kirby says that Falmouth’s location is part of the school’s success: “Our stimulating, vibrant and beautiful environment attracts a special kind of person to study, work and live here. The influences of our location on the work of our staff and students has been recognised and applauded nationally and internationally. Our graduating students are highly sought after and enjoy a reputation for excellence in their chosen disciplines. Their innumerable achievements reflect the quality of the learning experience at Falmouth with its first-class facilities, high-calibre staff, international contacts, and an entrepreneurial ethos”
