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Arts Education Must Change: Prepare Graduates for Real Careers

Opinion

Business Honor
07 May, 2025

Arts education needs practical training to help graduates succeed in today’s competitive creative industries.

According to the Hechinger Report, which is a national nonprofit newsroom, many students who graduate with degrees in art or art history are highly educated but are often unprepared for actual jobs. They struggle to find work outside of universities, especially in areas like galleries, auction houses, and publishing.

In the U.S., the number of art history degrees has fallen by 34% over the past decade. In many state schools in the UK, funding for the arts has been reduced. This suggests that the standard of arts education is declining. At the same time, creative industries are looking for workers who not only understand art theory but also know how to use it in business and real situations. They want graduates with both knowledge and skills that are ready for a job.

To meet these needs, universities must update their programs. Arts education should include practical training, worldwide learning, and real industry experience. For example, Sotheby’s Institute of Art offers a master's in art business, mixing art history with business, legal, and ethical studies. Many students from this program receive job offers after internships.

Modern arts education should include international studies, digital tools, and legal training. Students should learn about block chain, AI, and how to manage online exhibitions. Ethics and sustainability also need to be taught so future leaders can guide the industry with care and responsibility. Research should go beyond books and include interviews and actual data. Business skills, such as writing business plans, are also important so students can create their own paths.

Universities must combine strong academics with career training. This will help graduates succeed in today’s changing creative economy. While tradition still has value, arts education must grow and change. By balancing history with creation, schools can prepare students for both artistic and professional success.