As an art student, choosing courses to study can be a turning point in deciding your artistic career. With so many options, it is essential to choose courses that complement your career goals, interests, and abilities.
Whether you enjoy fine arts, graphic design, or illustration, there are quite a number of courses to study as an art student can study to further develop their talents and realize their full potential.
In this piece, we are going to be talking about some of the most relevant and innovative courses that art students can pursue in order to develop their skill set and awareness.
Table of Contents
Why Study an Art Course at University?
Studying an art course has numerous advantages, including:
- Different career opportunities: Art graduates can have a career in media, education, government, law, and even producing digital content.
- Enhanced critical thinking: Studies in humanities give students the skill of considering matters on different sides, hence a skillful problem solver.
- Enhanced communication: All art disciplines involve critical writing, speaking, and presentation, skills that are appropriate in the workplace.
- Opportunities for creative expression: Theatre arts, fine arts, and literature are some of the courses that offer students the chance to express their ideas in a creative manner.
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What Are The Courses to Study As An Art Student?
There are a myriad of courses to study as an art student at universities in Nigeria tailored to different professional occupations. This, however, is a summary of the most popular art courses:
1. Mass Communication
Mass communication is appropriate for students who are interested in journalism, broadcasting, advertisement and public relations. Because of rapid growth in digital media, Mass communication graduates are more sought-after in the entertainment industry in Nigeria.
2. Law
Law being the most honored and respected art courses in Nigeria. Law courses give students the potential to become lawyers, judges, legal advisors or even work in government departments. The course is highly competitive because it’s among the most sought-after courses but it’s very rewarding.
3. English and Literary Studies
English graduates are also employed in publishing, teaching, creative writing and media. They can also be content creators, editors and communications experts.
4. International Relations
Students who study this course typically study global politics, diplomacy, and foreign policies. International relations graduates typically get jobs in government agencies, embassies, NGOs and multinational corporations.
5. Theatre Arts
Students who are interested in anything stage-related like acting, directing and stage production can choose this course. Students who graduate from this course can work as an actor in Nollywood( Nigeria’s movie industry).
Also Read – 10 Best Courses to Study in Nigeria for Quick Employment in 2025
6. Political Science
This course is appropriate for students who want to become politicians since it involves governance, policy-making, and public administration. Political science graduates can work in government agencies, research institutions, and overseas.
7. Linguistics
Interested students may choose this course. Majors in language study language structure, phonetics, and semantics. Their graduates can specialize their profession in translation, teaching, designing AI, and research.
8. History and International Studies
History enthusiasts can choose this course since it encompasses the study of Nigeria’s past and world matters. Graduates in history and international studies may work in museums, academies, diplomacy, and historical research.
9. Psychology
Psychology students learn about human behavior and mental health. They work in counseling, HR, mental health centers, and social services.
10. Sociology
Sociology is the study of human behavior, culture, and social institutions. The practitioners of this course work in policy-making, social work, NGOs, and research institutions.
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11. Philosophy
Philosophy students learn analytical and critical thinking. Career opportunities include law, ethics consultancy, academia, and public service.
12. Public Administration
The students of this field major in the governance and management of public institutions. Graduates can work as government administrators, policy analysts, and organizational managers.
13. Fine and Applied Arts
This is a program for artists who enjoy painting, sculpting, and designing. Careers include illustration, fashion design, digital art, and animation.
14. Criminology and Security Studies
The students of this program work in law enforcement, security agencies, forensic research, and intelligence services.
15. Creative Arts
This is a broad course because it involves several disciplines such as music, visual arts, and performing arts. Graduates in creative arts usually work in advertising, TV production, and film.
Also Read – JAMB Syllabus 2025/2026 PDF for All Subjects | Free Download
16. Religious Studies
Students study the doctrines and philosophies of various religions. Graduates from this course are employed in teaching, religious institutions, and consultancy on ethics.
17. Archaeology
Graduate of Archaeology usually in museum curation, research, and preservation of cultural heritage.
18. Communication Arts
This is very close to mass communication, but it focuses on advertising and public relations only.
19. Music
This course cultivates students in music performance, production, and theory. Teaching, composing music, sound engineering, and performing are some of the career opportunities.
20. Education (Art Specializations)
The education degree with art concentration equips students to be educators, curriculum specialists, and educational consultants.
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Why Pursuing Courses to Study As An Art Student Is Worth It
Studying for an arts degree not only enhances your creative abilities but also equips you with critical thinking, communication, and flexibility skills.
The majority of art subjects are now more and more being appreciated for their contribution to society and the economy, and their graduates have been securing jobs in different industries, including technology, finance, education, and media.
Art graduates typically possess a unique ability to approach challenges creatively, a highly sought-after asset in any profession.
For instance, mass communication graduates are now at the heart of shaping public opinion and social change, and economics graduates are at the forefront in shaping business and government policy-making.
The scope is far wider than traditional perceptions, with employers increasingly seeing the wide skill set that art degrees foster.
How to Choose the Right Courses to Study As An Art Student
When selecting an art course, consider your passions and long-term career goals. Each course has its own unique strengths and may offer specialized career paths:
- Consider Your Interests: Reflect on the subjects that genuinely excite you. If you’re drawn to creativity, Fine & Applied Arts or Theatre Arts may be a great fit. If you’re more analytical, courses like Law, Economics, or Sociology could align better.
- Evaluate Job Market Trends: Research courses with growing demand, like Environmental Science or Gender Studies. These courses are addressing the most important global issues, and therefore career opportunities are expanding.
- Check University Reputation: While there are decent universities in Nigeria, some have specialized personnel and equipment for specific courses. For example, the University of Lagos is highly renowned for Mass Communication, and Ahmadu Bello University is well established in Visual Arts.
- Review JAMB Score Requirements: Understanding the JAMB score requirements can help you plan admissions and set realistic expectations.
Also Read – When is JAMB Exam Starting 2025/2026 Date, Deadline, Guidelines
Future Opportunities in Art Careers
The art world is evolving as technology and globalization introduce new mediums and platforms for creativity. This evolution has ushered in careers that did not exist a decade ago, such as social media managers, digital artists, UX/UI designers, and virtual event planners.
Also, cross-disciplinary fields like Environmental Science and Gender Studies are becoming indispensable as governments and businesses concentrate on sustainable and inclusive operations. This trend widens the horizon for art graduates in Nigeria to find employment in high-impact domains both locally and internationally.
Do not let social stereotypes discourage you from pursuing an art degree. Such programs equip you with worthwhile skills and result in rewarding career opportunities that have a lasting impact. If you have a passion for drama, sociology, or international relations, there is an art program in Nigerian universities that suits your skills and aspirations.
Keep your passion close to your heart, choose the right course, and follow a lucrative career that has a good influence on society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the best art courses in Nigeria?
The best courses include Law, Mass Communication, International Relations, Political Science, Theatre Arts, and Psychology.
What is the art course that has the most employment opportunities?
Law, Mass Communication, and Political Science have very good career prospects in Nigeria.
Can I transfer from a science course to an art course?
Yes, depending on the transfer policies of the university as well as course requirements.
Conclusion
Art courses to study as an art student are diverse and fascinating. Experimenting with various art courses allows you to hone your skills and style.
Whether graphic design, illustration, or fine arts, there’s a course that can satisfy your interest. These courses will assist you in developing as an artist and attaining your potential, preparing you for a prosperous career in art.
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