Why Artists Are Returning to College After a BFA – And How to Navigate the Journey
For many creative professionals, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) feels like crossing a finish line. After years of honing technical skills, building portfolios, and immersing themselves in artistic communities, graduates often step into careers in design, studio art, theater, or related fields. But what happens when that BFA no longer aligns with evolving goals? A growing number of artists are choosing an unexpected path: returning to undergraduate studies for a second bachelor’s degree. Whether driven by practicality, curiosity, or a desire to reinvent their careers, this decision comes with unique challenges and rewards. Let’s explore why artists take this leap and how to make the process smoother.
The “Why” Behind the Decision
Returning to college after completing a BFA isn’t about backtracking—it’s about expanding possibilities. Common motivations include:
1. Career Pivots
Many artists discover that their creative skills translate well into adjacent fields but require additional credentials. For example, a painter might return to study art therapy to work in mental health, or a graphic designer might pursue computer science to transition into UX/UI roles.
2. Skill Gaps in a Changing Market
Rapid technological advancements have reshaped creative industries. A sculptor interested in digital fabrication or a photographer exploring AI-generated art may need formal training in software engineering or data science to stay competitive.
3. Financial Stability
Let’s face it: making a sustainable income in the arts can be tough. Some artists return to school for degrees in business, education, or healthcare to secure stable jobs while maintaining creative side hustles.
4. Personal Fulfillment
Curiosity isn’t limited to youth. A ceramicist fascinated by environmental science or a theater major drawn to neuroscience might return to school purely for intellectual growth.
Navigating Common Challenges
Going back for a second bachelor’s degree isn’t like starting over at 18. Adult learners face distinct hurdles:
– Time Management
Juggling coursework with jobs, family responsibilities, or existing artistic projects requires meticulous planning. Many returning students opt for part-time enrollment or online programs.
– Financial Strain
Undergraduate tuition isn’t cheap, and federal financial aid options for second degrees are limited. Scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or community college courses for prerequisites can ease the burden.
– Social Adaptation
Being in classes with peers a decade younger can feel isolating. Building connections with professors, joining adult learner groups, or seeking out hybrid programs (online + in-person) helps bridge the gap.
– Credit Transfer Complexities
Not all BFA credits will apply to a new degree. For example, a photography class might count as a general elective for a biology major but won’t fulfill core science requirements. Working closely with academic advisors early on is critical.
Strategies for Success
If you’re considering this path, here’s how to set yourself up for a smoother transition:
1. Clarify Your Goals
Ask yourself: What problem am I trying to solve? If it’s career-related, research job markets and talk to professionals in your target field. If it’s personal growth, explore certificate programs or community courses before committing to a full degree.
2. Choose the Right Program
Look for schools that cater to non-traditional students. Many universities offer:
– Accelerated degrees (e.g., completing a BA in 2–3 years)
– Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credits for work/artistic experience
– Flexible scheduling (evening, weekend, or online classes)
3. Leverage Your BFA Skills
Your artistic training isn’t wasted. Critical thinking, project management, and visual communication are assets in any field. A theater major studying marketing might excel at crafting compelling brand stories, while a painter-turned-engineer could approach problem-solving with creativity.
4. Build a Support System
Connect with fellow adult learners through campus organizations or online forums. Share childcare responsibilities with other student-parents, or form study groups to stay motivated.
5. Test the Waters
Take a single course in your target field before enrolling full-time. Platforms like Coursera or local community colleges offer low-risk ways to explore subjects like coding, accounting, or biology.
Real-Life Stories: Artists Who Made the Switch
To illustrate what’s possible, here are anonymized examples from interviews with BFA graduates who returned to undergrad studies:
– Casey (32): BFA in Illustration → BS in Nursing
After years of freelance work, Casey wanted a stable career that still allowed for creativity. She now works as a pediatric nurse and creates medical illustrations on the side.
– Jamal (28): BFA in Dance → BA in Psychology
Jamal realized he wanted to study how movement therapy aids trauma recovery. His combined expertise led to a role at a rehab center designing movement-based therapy programs.
– Rosa (40): BFA in Graphic Design → BS in Environmental Science
Passionate about climate advocacy, Rosa now creates data visualizations for environmental nonprofits, merging her design skills with scientific research.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Lifelong Learning
Returning to college after a BFA isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a testament to adaptability. The modern workforce rewards hybrid skills, and artists are uniquely positioned to bridge disciplines. Whether you’re driven by necessity, curiosity, or reinvention, the key is to approach the journey with patience and self-compassion.
Remember, education isn’t a linear path. It’s okay to evolve, experiment, and even change directions again. After all, isn’t that what being an artist is all about?
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