Education Required to Be a Sculptor

Sculptors create three-dimensional works of art---like statues and busts---using various materials such as wood, marble, glass, clay and plaster. Because the field of art is very competitive, sculptors typically pursue post-secondary education to improve their skills and increase their likelihood of success in the arts.

Identification

Most sculptors earn bachelor's degrees in fine arts, choosing to attend universities that offer a specialization or focus in sculpture. There are also a few colleges that offer bachelor's degrees specifically in sculpture.

Time Frame

Most bachelor's degree programs in fine arts or sculpture require four years of full-time study to complete.

Coursework

In college, sculptors typically take courses in sculpture technique, drawing, mold making, 3D computer modeling, anatomy, and art appreciation or art history. Fine arts degrees usually combine hands-on training and practice with classroom-based lectures and demonstrations.

Cost

For the 2009-2010 school year, the average cost of one year in a bachelor's degree program at a public college was $7,020 for in-state students, while the average cost for one year at a private college or university was $26,273.

Advancement

Sculptors who may wish to one day teach at the college level, typically must continue their education after receiving a bachelor's degree, according to CollegeBoard.com. Most colleges and universities prefer to hire sculptors with a Ph.D. in the fine arts to fill faculty positions.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Artists and Related Workers
• Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts: Sculpture Major
• CollegeBoard.com: College Costs