High-Paying Artist Jobs Without a Degree

Understandably, many people find the idea of starting a career in the arts to be intimidating. The art world is constantly evolving to incorporate new media and cultural ideas. If you are just starting, you may be wondering if you have the right training and qualifications to succeed. In fact, there are more jobs for artists without degrees than you realize.

You can land numerous high-paying art jobs by attending a trade school, enrolling in online classes, or simply developing a strong enough portfolio and expanding your professional network. This article will discuss some of the highest-paying art jobs and guide to help you understand what you need to thrive in this field without a degree.

Why College Is Not for Everyone

Many recent high school graduates elect not to attend college because their chosen career field values experience and hands-on training over traditional classroom instruction. Attending college is a significant financial investment that is not always worth it if your career goals don’t require a degree.

Pursuing a graphic design degree, for example, has its benefits. But the four years you spend studying could also be put to use gaining mentorship and real-world experience in an internship or entry-level job. You can land various graphic art jobs without a degree if you assemble an impressive portfolio and build a professional network. Employment in arts and design occupations overall is projected to grow about as fast as average through 2033, with steady annual openings driven by replacement needs.¹

Different Types of Art Jobs for Artists

There are almost as many types of art jobs as there are forms of art. Artistic skills and thinking can be put to use in film, interior design, game development, art history, illustration, creative writing, fashion, and graphic design. All of these fields have very different requirements, but with the right form of creativity, you can thrive.

While various art jobs, such as an art historian, may require at least a bachelor’s degree, attending university is not your only option. You can gain the right training and experience for roles like graphic designer or game designer through online courses, coding bootcamps, or vocational training programs. Overall, arts and design roles see stable demand and median pay above the all-occupation median.¹

What Do Artist Jobs Pay?

Artist salaries vary depending on the type of artwork, skill level, location, and employer. Recent federal data show median pay in 2024 at $61,300 for graphic designers, $63,490 for interior designers, $80,690 for fashion designers, $68,810 for camera operators (a common proxy for videographers), $60,990 for chefs and head cooks, and $20.44 per hour for photographers.² ³ Indeed’s current aggregates generally align (e.g., graphic designers ~$23.22/hour; makeup artists ~$30/hour; photographers ~$21.50/hour), but vary by market and experience.⁴ ⁵ ⁶

High-Paying Jobs for Artists Without a College Degree

† BLS reports hourly medians for these roles; many work part-time or project-based schedules. Converting to annual pay is not recommended due to variable hours.⁹ ¹¹ ¹²

*The choreographer/dancer outlook is reported together by BLS.¹¹

Best Jobs for Artists That Don’t Require a Degree: A Closer Look

You can find jobs for artists without degrees in a wide range of fields, from technology to entertainment. Below, we provide more information about some of the highest-paying art jobs that you can qualify for through self-study, vocational training, or online courses.

Videographer 

Videographers capture and edit footage for events, businesses, and media projects. This can range from weddings and live events to promotional videos and training materials. The role requires mastery of professional cameras, lighting, and sound equipment, along with editing tools like Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects. Attention to detail, creativity in storytelling, and the ability to manage client expectations are critical. Many videographers work independently, so building a strong portfolio and reputation often leads to higher-paying opportunities in commercial and creative industries.¹³

Makeup Artist 

Makeup artists enhance appearance for personal events or create looks for film, theater, fashion, and television. In addition to beauty applications, some specialize in prosthetics or special effects. The job requires knowledge of skin preparation, sanitation standards, and color theory, as well as the ability to work under tight time constraints. Many positions highlight the need for portfolios that show a range of styles. Makeup artists often freelance or work on contract, and success depends on networking and adaptability in different settings.¹⁵

Interior Designer 

Interior designers plan and create functional, visually appealing spaces. Their work involves spatial planning, lighting design, and materials selection, as well as coordinating with architects and contractors. Software skills in AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp are frequently required. Designers often balance aesthetic goals with safety codes and budget constraints, making both technical knowledge and creativity essential. Many enter the field through vocational programs or apprenticeships, proving their skill through project portfolios.³

Fashion Designer 

Fashion designers produce clothing, footwear, and accessories that reflect both trends and function. The process involves sketching, fabric selection, patternmaking, and overseeing production. Creativity is essential, but so is knowledge of the fashion supply chain and an ability to meet seasonal deadlines. Employers often expect familiarity with tools like Adobe Illustrator and experience creating technical packs for manufacturers. Many designers begin with apprenticeships or work in junior roles before moving into independent labels or major fashion houses.³

Graphic Designer 

Graphic designers develop visuals for digital and print media, including logos, websites, marketing materials, and product packaging. Strong portfolios are essential, often outweighing formal education. Designers are expected to demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and, increasingly, Figma for digital interface design. They must also understand brand identity, typography, and layout design. Designers can thrive as freelancers, in-house, or even as a well-paying side hustle, with opportunities ranging from small business projects to global brand campaigns.³ ⁴

Musician 

Musicians perform, compose, or record music across a wide variety of styles. The career often combines live performances with recording sessions, teaching, and content creation on platforms like YouTube. Beyond performance skills, employers frequently look for knowledge of digital audio workstations such as Logic Pro or Pro Tools. Building a sustainable career often involves networking, developing multiple income streams, and maintaining a strong professional presence both online and within the local music community.⁹

Chef 

Chefs plan menus, supervise kitchen staff, and ensure food quality in restaurants, catering companies, or private settings. Creativity is important, but so are food safety certifications and organizational skills. Many employers expect ServSafe or similar credentials, as well as experience managing costs and suppliers. Chefs typically advance through line cook or sous chef positions, learning on the job before taking on leadership roles. Success depends on balancing culinary creativity with business acumen.¹⁰

Choreographer 

Choreographers design and teach dance routines for performances, film, television, and live entertainment. They collaborate with directors and musicians to align movement with artistic vision and storyline. Versatility across dance styles such as ballet, modern, and hip hop is valued, along with the ability to direct rehearsals and motivate performers. Many choreographers start as dancers and transition into leadership roles after developing a unique style and strong reputation.¹¹

Dancer 

Dancers express emotion and narrative through movement in live or recorded performances. The profession requires daily training, stamina, and adaptability across styles such as jazz, tap, or contemporary. Many dancers audition regularly and work on short-term contracts, which makes resilience and networking essential. In addition to performance, some dancers move into teaching or choreography later in their careers.¹¹

Photographer 

Photographers document events, people, or products through still images. The role involves technical skills in lighting, composition, and post-processing using tools like Lightroom and Photoshop. Many photographers work independently, relying on their portfolios and client referrals to build a business. Versatility is important, with opportunities in portrait, commercial, fashion, or event photography. Establishing a strong online presence is now a common requirement for success in this field.¹²

What Skills Do You Need to Land Well Paying Art Jobs?

While several of the best well-paying art jobs require specialized hard skills, there are shared creative and interpersonal skills. Here are some essential soft skills you should hone if you want to succeed in an artistic field.

Design Skills

Design ability is central to many creative careers. Whether sketching garments, designing a room layout, or producing a digital illustration, employers expect professionals to combine technical knowledge with creativity. Today’s job postings often require proficiency in design software and the ability to present concepts clearly through mockups and prototypes. Strong visual problem-solving sets successful candidates apart.³ ⁴

Vision

Creative professionals must be able to imagine the final product and guide the process to completion. For a musician, this may involve layering instruments into a cohesive composition; for a designer, it could mean anticipating how branding elements appear across platforms. Vision includes understanding audience expectations and aligning artistic choices with client goals. Employers value individuals who can balance originality with practical execution.¹³

Time Management

Deadlines are part of every artistic career. Makeup artists may have only minutes to prepare a performer, while videographers and editors juggle multiple projects under tight schedules. Employers consistently emphasize punctuality, reliability, and workflow management. Time management ensures that creativity does not come at the expense of professionalism. Strong scheduling and organizational skills can make the difference between repeat business and missed opportunities.⁷ ¹⁵

Concept Development

All creative work begins with an idea. Concept development involves brainstorming, creating drafts, and refining work based on feedback. For example, photographers may pitch mood boards to clients, while choreographers outline movement sequences before rehearsals. Employers expect artists to present their concepts confidently and adapt them as projects evolve. This skill demonstrates not only creativity but also communication and planning.¹³

Interpersonal Skills

Artists rarely work in isolation. Collaborating with clients, colleagues, and production teams requires strong communication and emotional intelligence. In film, designers coordinate with directors and producers; in culinary arts, chefs lead kitchen crews. Employers frequently list teamwork, flexibility, and conflict resolution as essential skills. Professionals who can foster positive relationships are more likely to succeed and secure long-term opportunities.¹³ ¹⁴

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What Education Do You Need to Get High Paying Art Jobs?

You can start many high-paying art careers without a four-year degree by earning certificates, completing short courses, and building a portfolio that proves you can do the work. Employers increasingly accept equivalent experience plus a portfolio in place of a degree for roles such as graphic designer, videographer, and production artist.³ ⁷ ¹³

Some structured study still helps. High school and vocational courses in music, design, media production, or cosmetology establish fundamentals, and targeted credentials (e.g., ServSafe for culinary, software certificates, union training) can boost employability.¹⁰ Current postings on Indeed and LinkedIn frequently state “Bachelor’s or equivalent experience” or list a degree as “preferred, not required,” with portfolio links mandatory.¹³

How to Get an Artist Job With a GED

Jobs for artists without degrees tend to prioritize demonstrated skill, creativity, and experience rather than formal academic credentials. A GED is a strong foundation that can open doors, but career growth depends on how you apply it.

Step 1: Build Core Academic and Creative Foundations

A GED shows you’ve completed high school-level academics, but adding coursework in art, music, design, or digital media will make your portfolio stronger. Free and low-cost online courses, community workshops, and high school electives in visual or performing arts provide valuable fundamentals. Developing early projects, such as photo series, digital illustrations, or performance recordings, helps demonstrate your ability.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Opportunities in the arts are concentrated in major cultural hubs. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville host thriving creative communities, while smaller markets may have fewer roles but more accessible entry points. Wages and job availability vary significantly by state and metro area, so researching your field in local BLS or CareerOneStop databases can guide relocation decisions.¹² ¹⁶ ¹⁷

Step 3: Network Strategically

The arts are highly relationship-driven. Attend local events, join creative meetups, and connect with professionals through LinkedIn or specialized communities. Networking provides mentorship, referrals, and access to hidden job opportunities. Even short-term collaborations or assisting experienced professionals can lead to larger contracts or full-time roles.

Step 4: Pursue Targeted Training

Employers value applied training that proves you can use the tools of the trade. Consider apprenticeships, union workshops, and online programs specific to your field, such as Adobe certification for designers, ServSafe for chefs, or on-camera training for performers. Many jobs test candidates on technical proficiency during the hiring process, so skill validation is important.

Step 5: Advance Through Experience

Once you’ve entered the industry, advancement comes through credits, client feedback, and professional growth. Artists often start in assistant or support roles, then move into more creative or leadership positions as they build a portfolio of work. Freelancers can raise their rates as demand grows, while staff professionals can pursue promotions into senior roles. Dedication to craft, consistent networking, and continuous learning are what push careers forward.

Companies That Offer Entry-Level Artist Jobs

• Disney: Disney regularly hires performers and creative talent through open auditions and role-specific postings (parks, cruises, media). Entry points include entertainment, costuming, and creative production support.¹⁸ ¹⁹
• Universal Studios/NBCUniversal: NBCUniversal (including Universal Studios) maintains early-career programs such as the NBCU Page Program, internships, and associate tracks that feed into production, design, and content roles across TV, film, streaming, and parks.²⁰ ²¹ ²² ²³
• Apple: Apple’s creative teams (Human Interface Design, Communications Design, Beats design) hire designers, producers, and art directors. Many roles prefer prior experience, but junior creative openings appear periodically; portfolios are required.²⁴ ²⁵ ²⁶
• Canva: Canva hires designers to build templates, brand kits, and visual systems used by millions, including contract and full-time roles suitable for early-career designers with strong portfolios.²⁷

Where to Find Artist Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

ZipRecruiter

ZipRecruiter is a job search platform that focuses on helping you find the right career opportunity. The platform’s search filters make it easy to narrow in on art jobs that don’t require a degree. You can search based on factors like company, job description, location, and salary. Whether you want an entry-level, intermediate-level, or expert-level job, this site can help you find a suitable position.

Indeed

Indeed helps you search for artist jobs and secure great career opportunities. It provides you with salary comparisons for your location. Searching for artist jobs that don’t require a degree is easy with various filters. Indeed also allows you to apply for jobs right through the platform.

FlexJobs

This online job search engine offers employment seekers numerous options to choose from. Whether you are an artist working from home, or an industrial designer, you can find the right employer on FlexJobs. As long as your qualifications match a job description, you can apply and wait for feedback from the hiring manager or recruiters.

Consider an Artist Degree Later in Your Career

You can kick off many of the highest-paying art careers by acquiring basic communication skills, technical skills, and interpersonal skills. Then advance your career through workshops, online lessons, vocational training, and art school. Once you have more experience, it will become easier to identify which qualifications are best suited for your goals.

There are many entry-level jobs for artists without degrees, but you may reach a point in your career where you feel you have the time and resources to gain more formal training. It will help you show yourself competent for artist jobs, gaining an advantage over the other candidates. A college degree will also make you an authority in the industry.

Artist Jobs Without a Degree FAQ

Sources

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/
2. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm
3. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/interior-designers.htm ; https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/fashion-designers.htm ; https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm
4. https://www.indeed.com/career/graphic-designer/salaries
5. https://www.indeed.com/career/photographer/salaries
6. https://www.indeed.com/career/makeup-artist/salaries
7. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes274031.htm
8. https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/39-5091.00
9. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/musicians-and-singers.htm
10. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/food-preparation-and-serving/chefs-and-head-cooks.htm
11. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/dancers-and-choreographers.htm
12. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/photographers.htm
13. https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/ ; https://www.indeed.com/
14. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice
15. https://www.indeed.com/career/makeup-artist/skills
16. https://www.bls.gov/oes/tables.htm
17. https://www.onetonline.org/
18. https://jobs.disneycareers.com/auditions-faq
19. https://jobs.disneycareers.com/search-jobs?k=art
20. https://www.nbcunicareers.com/careers
21. https://www.nbcunicareers.com/programs
22. https://www.nbcunicareers.com/find-a-job
23. https://www.nbcunicareers.com/internships
24. https://jobs.apple.com/en-us/search?location=united-states-USA&team=human-interface-design-DESGN-HID