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First, some facts. Of the Digital Arts graduates we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 112 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Below average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 58%, Digital Arts graduates have a lower likelihood (-9%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, only 19% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests a Bachelors degree is enough for most Digital Arts graduates, and it's normal to look for work straight after graduation.
See the details:
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Relevance score: 69% We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.
DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2018 from Columbia College Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts - BA in Digital Arts. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONMultimedia Digital Archivist and Recordkeeper Viets Estate May 2018 - Mar 2019 Call Center Customer Service Representative/Client Success Agent  Nicor Gas Mar 2019 - Aug 2020 3D Environment Artist/3D Artist/3D Modeler and IT Support Specialist Self Employed Aug 2020 - Aug 2023 Service Call Coordinator  Worksighted Aug 2023 - Present ABOUTMY PASSION: To create designs that impact and change the way gamers engage in playing. To collaborate with my co-workers in cutting-edge, thrilling game design so that every gamer is clamoring to buy our game and experience the new adventure we created together! Knowing what gamers want because Im one too. MY BEST DAY: The day we surpass not only all company expectations but also, industry standards with first-year sales revenue. I understand that creating an epic game means developing, designing, and enhancing user experience by providing superb control over character movement, interesting themes/visual style, outstanding sound/music, captivating worlds, exhilarating gameplay, well-planned levels, progressive challenges/rewards, memorable characters with plot twists and entertaining storylines.WHAT I DO: I work well with my teammates to understand our objectives and meet all project requirements. I offer creative and adaptive solutions when technical issues arise. I stay calm and focused when tensions run high. Ive received numerous awards and recognition for my outstanding work. SOFTWARE: 3D Composition, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Photoshop; Alternative Modeling, 3DS Max; Environmental Design/ Modeling: Autodesk Maya, Substance Painter, SolidAngle Arnold, AfterEffects; Advanced 3D Environments, Autodesk Maya, Substance Painter, UnityWHY IT MATTERS: Because performing well in my job helps my company meet its goals and objectives. And when my company wins, everyone wins which means I win too! Being on a winning team, creating new designs and games is my dream job! Life should be FUN. If fun can be achieved through playing games, then why not.WHAT MAKES ME UNIQUE: Im passionate about designing and playing games. Im hard-working, dedicated, creative, and know what it takes to get along with anyone. Ive had the great fortune of being a part of a large extended family which taught me what it takes to collaborate on all levels. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
When it comes to analyzing career paths for graduates in Digital Arts, it’s pretty clear that some roles shine brighter than others in reflecting the skills learned during their degree program. A big trend in the job market for these graduates is the prevalence of roles in graphic design, web design, and various creative positions that directly utilize digital arts skills. Jobs such as graphic designers, motion graphic artists, UX/UI designers, and multimedia content creators are frequently represented, emphasizing the creative and technical abilities that students cultivate in their coursework.
However, it's important to note that not every job held by Digital Arts graduates closely aligns with their degree. Many individuals gravitate towards roles in customer service, marketing, and even project management, which, while they may involve some transferable skills, do not tap into the core competencies that a Digital Arts curriculum typically offers. For instance, jobs like waitstaff, office assistants, and even delivery drivers might contribute to a professional skill set but often lack that direct connection to the artistic or technological expertise gained from their studies.
Overall, while many graduates have successfully landed roles that are highly relevant to Digital Arts—such as graphic designers and animators—several have ventured into jobs that are less aligned, spanning various industries and positions. This diverse range of employment suggests that while a Digital Arts degree equips students with valuable creative skills, the job market can pull them in different directions, sometimes away from strictly artistic domains. So, prospects improve significantly when graduates find openings in fields that closely relate to digital arts, but it’s clear that pathways can diverge significantly beyond the classroom. It's good to have options, but it’s also cool when folks can fully leverage their artistic training in their careers.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Digital Arts graduates:
When looking at the career paths taken by graduates in Digital Arts, it's pretty clear that there's a mix of success stories and less-than-ideal outcomes. Many of these graduates are starting in roles that feel relatively connected to their field, especially in jobs like graphic design, UX/UI design, and various digital media positions. For instance, those graduating from prominent institutions like Louisiana State University or Full Sail University often land jobs right away that utilize their skills creatively, such as in positions like UX Design Engineer at Visa or Graphic Designer roles shortly after graduation.
However, not every graduate follows a smooth path. Some seem to struggle with finding relevant work, leading to jobs that seem more detached from their Digital Arts background. For example, individuals from Bowling Green State University have been noted to take up positions like being a waitress or dishwashing, which could eventually lead them to miss out on applying their skills in their desired fields altogether. This pattern of success and setbacks often continues over time; while some graduates may find steady employment in their niche, like being a Senior Animator or Graphic Designer, others veer off toward less related industries, like sales or project management, which might indicate a lack of opportunity or clarity in their career goals.
Five to ten years after graduation, the landscape becomes even more varied. Many graduates who initially secured design roles or digital media jobs appear to have progressed into senior or managerial positions within their fields, indicating a solid career trajectory. For example, a graduate from Full Sail University went from a UX Design role to a Senior Designer at Visa within a few years, showcasing clear upward mobility. In contrast, others who landed disparate roles often find themselves still in the same type of inconsistent or unrelated jobs, reflecting either a misalignment with their field or a continual search for meaningful work.
Ultimately, while many graduates from Digital Arts programs do find themselves on promising paths related to their studies, there is a significant number of them who take more circuitous routes, sometimes settling for jobs that may notfully capitalize on their education. It's worth noting for incoming students that the journey in Digital Arts can often be a mixed bag of opportunity and challenge, so staying focused and adaptable is key in building a successful career in this creative industry.
A Bachelor’s degree in Digital Arts can be a mix of both challenging and fun, depending on your interests and skills. If you have a passion for creativity, technology, and design, you might find it enjoyable, but that doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park. You’ll be expected to learn various software tools, understand artistic principles, and deliver projects on time, which can be tough if you’re juggling multiple classes. Overall, it’s probably about average in difficulty compared to other degrees; it requires dedication and a willingness to learn, but it’s also super rewarding and can be a blast if you're into it!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Digital Arts.
When looking at this group of Digital Arts graduates, it's clear that their financial trajectories are pretty mixed. For instance, the ones like the LSU graduates who are landing roles at big companies like Visa in UX design seem to have a solid income stream. On the flip side, others are holding down jobs like waitressing or retail that typically pay less, suggesting they might not be making as much money despite their degrees. With fields like graphic design and UX being highly competitive and salaries varying widely based on experience and industry, it’s safe to say that not everyone here is cashing in big bucks right away.
Overall, while some of these graduates have indeed found profitable paths in industries that leverage their skills, others appear to be underemployed in positions that may not fully utilize their degrees or potential earnings. It’s a mixed bag, really, with a reminder that job titles don’t always equate to financial success—especially at the start of their careers. Everyone's journey is different, but it's clear that networking and gaining experience will play a huge role in moving up that pay scale later on!
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Digital Arts. This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Digital Arts (ordered by the average relevance score of their Digital Arts graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates:
| College | Score | Count |
|---|---|---|
 Bowling Green State University
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48 | 11 |