In an online master's degree program for Visual and Performing Arts, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of courses that will enhance your skills, knowledge, and artistic vision. Here are the typical courses you may take:

• Art History and Criticism

  • Explore various art movements, styles, and critical theories. Analyze artworks in historical context and learn to articulate your critiques effectively.

• Advanced Studio Practices

  • Engage in advanced techniques across various mediums such as painting, sculpture, or digital media. This course encourages experimentation and personal expression.

• Performance Theory and Analysis

  • Study the principles of performance as a form of art, including concepts from theater, dance, and performance art. Analyze performances and develop a deeper understanding of their impact.

• Visual Culture Studies

  • Examine the relationship between visual art and contemporary culture. You will analyze visual media's societal impacts, including photography, cinema, and graphic design.

• Creative Writing for Artists

  • Focus on the intersection between artistic expression and written communication. Emphasis is placed on writing artist statements, grant proposals, and reflective essays.

• Research Methods in Visual and Performing Arts

  • Learn qualitative and quantitative research methodologies tailored to arts studies. You will apply these methods in your projects and thesis.

• Digital Media and Technology in Arts

  • Explore the use of technology and new media in visual and performing arts. Topics may include digital design, multimedia production, and interactive art.

• Arts Management and Entrepreneurship

  • Understand the business and management aspects of the arts. This course covers marketing, funding strategies, and organizational skills for successful career advancement in the arts.

• Capstone Project or Thesis

  • Engage in a significant project that synthesizes your learning throughout the program. This may involve a creative portfolio, an original performance, or a research thesis that reflects your areas of interest.

• Collaborative Artistic Practice

  • Participate in group projects that promote teamwork and collaboration among artists. This course emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in the arts.

These courses are designed to provide you with a comprehensive education, preparing you for various roles within the visual and performing arts industry.

Selecting the right institution for your online master’s degree in Visual and Performing Arts is essential for your educational and career aspirations. Here are important factors to consider when making your choice:

• Accreditation
  Ensure that the school is accredited by a recognized body. Accreditation affects the quality of education you receive and the recognition of your degree by employers.

• Program Specialization
  Identify your specific area of interest within Visual and Performing Arts. Some programs may focus more on visual arts, while others might emphasize performing arts or arts management. Choose a school that offers a curriculum aligned with your goals.

• Faculty Credentials
  Investigate the faculty members’ qualifications, professional experience, and their contributions to the field. Learning from accomplished instructors can enhance your education and networking opportunities.

• Course Delivery and Flexibility
  Look into the online learning format. Whether you prefer synchronous classes (real-time participation) or asynchronous (pre-recorded content) delivery can significantly affect your learning experience. Assess how flexible the program is in accommodating your schedule.

• Resources and Support Services
  Evaluate the academic resources available to online students, such as access to online libraries, workshops, and tutoring services. Additionally, consider what kind of career support services they offer, including internships, networking, and job placement assistance.

• Networking Opportunities
  Examine if the program provides opportunities for networking through collaborations, workshops, or industry connections. A strong network can be instrumental for your career advancement.

• Alumni Success
  Research the success of the program’s alumni. Look for information about their career paths and achievements, as this can provide insight into the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

• Cost and Financial Aid
  Compare tuition rates and fees across different programs. Seek information on financial aid options, scholarships, and assistantships available to online graduate students.

• Curriculum and Course Offerings
  Review the curriculum to ensure it covers a broad range of topics that interest you, as well as core courses essential for a comprehensive understanding of the field.

• Student Reviews and Testimonials
  Seek out reviews from current or former students. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights about the program, faculty, workload, and overall satisfaction.

• Technical Requirements
  Confirm that you meet the technical requirements for participating in online courses. Ensure that you have the necessary hardware, software, and a reliable internet connection.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations in the Visual and Performing Arts field.

• Professional Associations: Joining organizations related to Visual and Performing Arts can provide you with networking opportunities, access to industry publications, and professional development resources. Consider becoming a member of the following:

  • National Art Education Association (NAEA)
  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
  • The Actors Studio

• Online Libraries and Databases: Many universities offer access to extensive online libraries that include databases of academic journals, e-books, and digital archives relevant to the arts. Look for institutions that provide databases such as:

  • JSTOR
  • ProQuest
  • Artstor

• Software and Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software that is commonly used in Visual and Performing Arts. Some essential tools include:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud (for visual arts; includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign) - Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro (for video editing and production) - Final Cut Pro | Adobe Premiere Pro
  • Noteflight or Sibelius (for music composition and notation) - Noteflight | Sibelius

• Online Learning Platforms: Consider supplementing your studies with online courses that provide skills compatible with your degree. Websites like:

  • Coursera
  • Skillshare
  • Udemy offer various courses in art, design, theatre production, music composition, and more.

• Webinars and Virtual Workshops: Participate in webinars and workshops offered by universities and professional organizations. These can provide insights into specific topics, trends, and practices within the field. Websites like Eventbrite can help you find relevant events.

• Mentorship Programs: Look for mentorship initiatives that connect emerging artists with established professionals. Organizations such as:

  • Creative Capital
  • The College Art Association (CAA) may offer such opportunities.

• Social Media and Online Communities: Engage with online communities via social media platforms. Groups on sites like Facebook or LinkedIn focus on the Visual and Performing Arts, offering support, advice, and collaboration opportunities.

• Funding and Scholarships: Research funding opportunities specifically for online master's programs in the arts. Websites such as Fastweb and Scholarships.com allow you to search for scholarships based on your field of study.

Utilizing these resources can enhance your educational experience and broaden your professional network as you pursue an online master’s degree in Visual and Performing Arts.