Whether on stage or behind the scenes, people who work in the Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications careers create artistic and informational resources that inform and inspire the world.
Artists, designers, writers, technicians, and others produce the music, movies, books, sculpture, dance, television broadcasts, and video games that provide the entertainment and enrichment that contribute to our culture and enjoyment.
A strong portfolio and the ability to network with other professionals is often important in these fields, as jobs may be highly competitive and some are filled through personal connections rather than advertised job openings. Experience may be more valued than training in some fields, but careers in the arts are available at a variety of levels of education.
A high school diploma is often required for work as a photographer, actor, sound engineering technician, dancer, floral designer, or public address announcer. Most who work in these fields have also studied and developed their skills on their own or through project work.
Careers requiring an associate’s degree or technical certificate include makeup artists, camera operators, technical writers, broadcast technicians, and desktop publishers.
Fields that often require more advanced training or a bachelor's degree include film and video editors, copywriters, choreographers, directors, broadcast news analysts and reporters, musicians, composers, graphic designers, fashion designers, audio and video equipment technicians, and art directors.
Is a career in Arts, A/V Technology and Communications for you? Keep these points in mind:
- Freelance work arrangements are common in these fields.
- Some jobs require frequent travel and have irregular work hours.
- Careers within arts and communications involve creative thinking, technical ability, and lots of collaboration.
- Discipline and perseverance are critical personal qualities to succeed in these fields.