Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, www.bls.gov/ooh

he US Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes the Occupational Outlook Handbook every year which provides data about occupation growth, the minimum level of education to engage in that occupation, and the annual media wage someone can expect to earn.

According to this data, employment in arts and design occupations is projected to decline four percent from 2019 to 2029, losing about 32,900 jobs. Workers will still be needed to meet the demand for animation and visual effects in video games, movies, television, and on smartphones, as well as to help create visually appealing and effective layouts of websites and other media platforms. However, arts and design workers also are employed in industries that are projected to decline, including publishing, manufacturing, and floral shops.

Employment in entertainment occupations (including sports) is projected to grow seven percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. There is strong demand from the public for more movies and television shows.

Here is the OOH’s data for selected occupations in the performing and visual arts. To earn more, students interested in majoring in the arts would be well served to add a minor in a discipline like technology or business.

Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions. Bachelor’s Degree

Fashion designers create clothing, accessories, and footwear. Bachelor’s Degree

Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Bachelor’s Degree

Industrial designers combine art, business, and engineering to develop the concepts for manufactured products. Bachelor’s Degree

Interior designers make indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items. Bachelor’s Degree

Special effects artists and animators create images that appear to move and visual effects for various forms of media and entertainment. Bachelor’s Degree

Actors express ideas and portray characters in theater, film, television, and other performing arts media. Some college, no degree

Dancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. Many years of formal training. Choreographers are usually dancers first.

Music directors lead musical groups during performances and recording sessions. Composers write and arrange original music in a variety of musical styles. Bachelor’s Degree

Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios. No formal education credential is required.

Producers and directors create motion pictures, television shows, live theater, commercials, and other performing arts productions. Bachelor’s Degree