What Can You Do With a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What jobs can you secure with a Master of Fine Arts degree?

A master of fine arts degree equips graduates with advanced creative skills, critical thinking abilities, and specialized training in artistic disciplines, making them valuable in a wide range of creative and academic fields.

Similar to the versatility offered by the fastest online liberal arts degree, an MFA enables professionals to contribute to the arts, entertainment, education, and media industries while producing original, impactful work.

Master of Fine Arts degree graduates often find opportunities such as:

• College or University Professor: Teaches in creative disciplines such as visual arts, theater, film, creative writing, or design at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Professional Artist or Performer: Creates original works as a painter, sculptor, actor, dancer, musician, or filmmaker for galleries, performances, or commercial projects.
• Creative Director or Art Director: Oversees the visual style, branding, and creative strategy for advertising agencies, publishing houses, or media companies.
• Writer or Author: Produces novels, screenplays, poetry, or nonfiction content for traditional publishers, streaming platforms, or independent distribution.
• Gallery or Museum Curator: Develops exhibitions, manages collections, and coordinates art programs for museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.
• Theater Director or Playwright: Produces and directs live performances, collaborating with actors, designers, and stage crews.
• Multimedia Designer or Animator: Designs visuals and animations for film, gaming, advertising, or digital platforms.
• Grant Writer or Arts Administrator: Secures funding and manages operations for nonprofit arts organizations, festivals, or cultural initiatives.

These positions are found in diverse settings, including universities, performing arts companies, media production studios, publishing houses, museums, nonprofit arts organizations, and design agencies. This range highlights the flexibility of an Master of Fine Arts degree in opening doors to both traditional artistic careers and evolving creative industries.

Do you need certification or licensure for MFA-related careers?

For most MFA-related careers, certification or licensure is not required, since creative professions are largely skill- and portfolio-driven. However, there are a few exceptions where additional credentials can strengthen career opportunities:

• Teaching at Colleges/Universities: A master of fine arts degree is often considered a terminal degree in the arts, which qualifies graduates to teach at the postsecondary level without needing additional licensure. However, K–12 teaching usually requires a separate state-issued teaching license or certification.
• Art Therapy or Drama Therapy: Requires additional certification and/or licensure beyond the MFA, since these careers intersect with mental health practice.
• Specialized Software/Industry Certifications: Careers in multimedia design, animation, or digital arts may benefit from certifications in tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk, or Unity.
• Grant Writing/Arts Administration: No formal certification is required, but professional development programs or nonprofit management certificates can help advance careers.

 In short: an MFA alone is sufficient for most artistic, writing, and academic paths, but careers tied to education, therapy, or specialized industries may require extra credentials.

The chart below shows ongoing digital upskilling trends among creative professionals. Nearly three-fourths of visual artists have started to use digital tools, while media creators and artists are looking at upskilling and reskilling to adapt to a more digital market.

How can Master of Fine Arts degree graduates prepare for certification or professional recognition?

Master of Fine Arts degree graduates who want to strengthen their career prospects through certification or professional recognition can take several steps depending on their field of specialization. While not always required, these credentials can boost credibility, employability, and advancement opportunities. Here are some ways to prepare:

• Research Field-Specific Requirements: Identify whether your chosen path (e.g., art therapy, K–12 teaching, digital media design) requires state licensure or industry-recognized certifications.
• Pursue Supplemental Training: Enroll in professional development programs, workshops, or online courses that provide practical skills or prepare you for exams (e.g., Adobe Certified Professional for design).
• Join Professional Organizations: Membership in groups such as the College Art Association (CAA), Writers Guild of America (WGA), or American Alliance of Museums can offer networking, certification pathways, and peer recognition.
• Earn Teaching Credentials (if needed): For K–12 teaching, complete a teacher preparation program and pass required state licensing exams.
• Build a Professional Portfolio: Even with certification, employers and clients rely heavily on portfolios of creative work—maintaining a strong, updated portfolio is essential.
• Seek Grants and Fellowships: Applying for competitive awards, artist residencies, and fellowships helps establish recognition in the creative community.

Will I get an ROI from a Master of Fine Arts degree?

Whether you’ll get a return on investment (ROI) from a master of fine arts degree depends on your career goals, specialization, and how you leverage the degree. Unlike fields such as medicine or law, where licensure leads to set career paths, the arts can offer both high-reward and uncertain financial outcomes. Here’s what to consider:

• Teaching Opportunities: An MFA is considered a terminal degree in the arts, qualifying you to teach at the college or university level, which can provide stable income and benefits.
• Creative Career Growth: For writers, artists, filmmakers, and performers, the ROI comes from expanded opportunities, such as book deals, gallery representation, directing, or creative leadership roles, that may not be as accessible without the degree. For instance, graduates who focus on visual arts or photography often ask what jobs can you get with a digital photography degree, and common paths include becoming a commercial photographer, photojournalist, art director, or visual content creator. These career options align closely with the type of creative growth and professional credibility an MFA program can foster.
• Networking and Recognition: MFA programs often connect students with mentors, industry professionals, and peers who can open doors to grants, residencies, exhibitions, and publishing opportunities.
• Variable Financial Payoff: Salaries vary widely—professors and creative directors often earn strong incomes, while independent artists or writers may face financial instability without supplemental work.

According to the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity, the average ROI for masters degrees is $83,000. 

Why pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree?

Pursuing a career with a master of fine arts degree can be rewarding for those passionate about creativity, expression, and shaping culture. A Master of Fine Arts degree equips graduates with advanced artistic, literary, and performance skills, along with the discipline to refine their craft at a professional level.

Because it is considered a terminal degree in the arts, it also opens doors to teaching at the college or university level while offering credibility in the creative industry.

Here are some key benefits of pursuing a career with a Master of Fine Arts degree:

• Professional Artistic Growth: Develop advanced skills in creative writing, visual arts, theater, design, or film to establish yourself as a professional artist.
• Academic and Teaching Opportunities: Qualify for higher education faculty roles, workshops, and residencies where an MFA is often required.
• Creative Career Paths: Expand opportunities in fields like publishing, film, performance, gallery work, and arts administration.
• Credibility and Networking: Gain recognition as a trained professional while building connections with peers, mentors, and industry leaders.

What are the top industries and employers hiring Master of Fine Arts degree graduates?

Master of Fine Arts degree graduates have a wide range of career opportunities that span traditional artistic fields and emerging industries where creativity, communication, and design thinking are highly valued. While many pursue independent practice, others secure roles in education, publishing, entertainment, or corporate settings.

For students interested in blending design with technology, pursuing one of the best online user experience design degree programs can complement an MFA background and lead to careers in UX, digital design, and interactive media. Below are the leading industries and notable U.S. employers actively hiring Master of Fine Arts degree holders:

• Higher Education and Academia: Since the MFA is considered a terminal degree, many graduates pursue careers as professors at universities, art schools, and community colleges. Top employers include the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), and Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
• Publishing, Writing, and Media: MFA-trained writers often work in publishing houses, literary agencies, and media outlets. Career paths include editors, copywriters, and journalists at organizations such as Penguin Random House, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Condé Nast.
• Film, Theater, and Entertainment: Graduates with MFAs in screenwriting, film, or performance arts find opportunities in acting, directing, or production. Employers include Netflix, HBO, Warner Bros., Broadway companies, and regional theater organizations.
• Museums, Galleries, and Arts Administration: Many MFA graduates pursue curatorial or administrative careers in cultural institutions, working at places like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Smithsonian Institution.
• Design, Marketing, and Creative Direction: Visual storytelling skills translate into branding, advertising, and design roles. MFA graduates may work as creative directors, art directors, or UX designers for companies such as Apple, Google, IDEO, Nike, and advertising agencies like Ogilvy and Wieden+Kennedy. For those curious about what can you do with a user experience degree, career options often include UX researcher, interaction designer, and product strategist—roles that intersect naturally with the design and creative direction skills developed in MFA programs.
• Self-Employment and Freelancing: A significant number of MFA graduates operate as independent artists, illustrators, filmmakers, or writers, supplementing their practice with grants, fellowships, or commissions.
• Corporate Innovation and Tech: Technology companies increasingly hire MFA graduates for their creative problem-solving and design expertise. Employers such as Microsoft, Meta, Adobe, and various startups in gaming, VR, and creative technology provide opportunities in product design and creative strategy.

Overall, Master of Fine Arts degree graduates are most commonly found in education, publishing, arts organizations, entertainment, and design, though their adaptability and creativity allow them to thrive in both traditional and nontraditional career paths.

What is the job outlook for MFA-related careers in 2025?

Employment in arts and design fields (graphic design, fine arts, animation, etc.) is projected to grow at an average pace between 2023 and 2033, with about 87,900 openings annually.

While some roles are expanding rapidly due to digital innovation and cultural demand, others remain stable or slower-growing. Below is an overview of the current outlook for MFA-related professions.

• Curators are projected to see robust growth at around 12%, reflecting steady demand in museums and cultural institutions.
• Film and video editors, as well as art, drama, or music professors, are expected to experience more modest growth of approximately 3%.
• Graphic design jobs are expected to remain competitive, with growth of around 2%, but opportunities are still strong in areas like digital marketing, branding, and web design where visual communication is critical. Arts administrators continue to see growing demand, driven by the expansion of programs and initiatives in cultural and educational organizations.
• UX/UI designers are projected to grow by 13% from 2022 to 2032, reflecting increasing demand for digital design and user-centered technology.
• Art therapists are expected to see 10% growth over the same period, driven by expanding recognition of the therapeutic benefits of art in healthcare and community settings.
• Post-secondary teaching roles are projected to grow by 24%, while art director positions are expected to increase by 11% from 2020 to 2030, indicating steady demand in education and leadership within creative industries.

However, according to Stacker, challenges remain, as unemployment among fine arts majors is around 12.1%, and underemployment affects approximately 55.4%, with many graduates working in positions that do not require their degree.

How much can Master of Fine Arts degree graduates earn in different fields?

Salaries for Master of Fine Arts degree graduates vary widely depending on the industry, role, and level of experience. Creative leadership positions, such as art directors, tend to be among the highest-paying, while traditional fine arts roles may offer lower median earnings but provide other forms of professional fulfillment.

Many MFA graduates also find lucrative opportunities in education, digital design, and emerging interdisciplinary roles. For students considering advanced training, knowing what school has the best fashion design program can also influence career trajectory and earning potential.

Here are some key MFA Career Salaries:

• Art Directors: Around $111,040, reflecting strong demand in advertising, media, and creative industries.
• Craft and Fine Artists: Approximately $56,260, with income often supplemented by commissions, exhibitions, or teaching.
• Graphic Designers: About $61,300, with steady demand across publishing, marketing, and digital media.
• Film and Video Editors: Roughly $70,570, with opportunities in entertainment, streaming, and corporate media. Those interested in film and media production may also explore careers for cinematography degree holders, which can range from roles in film direction and camera operation to editing and production design—fields where pay is often tied to both skill and project scale.
• Postsecondary Art, Drama, and Music Teachers: Around $80,190, providing both stable employment and academic prestige.
• Curators and Museum Professionals: Approximately $61,770, with growth expected as cultural institutions expand programming.
• UX/UI Designers: About $80,730, with 13% projected growth, making it one of the fastest-growing and best-paying fields for MFA graduates.
• Art Therapists (within rehabilitation counseling): Median pay around $42,000, with strong growth potential at 10%.

In the chart below, I've outlined the average annual salaries of the most common careers of Master of Fine Arts degree graduates. Art directors earn the most, with an annual salary of over $110,000, while art therapists earn the least at $42,000. 

What are the challenges of building a career with a Master of Fine Arts degree?

While a Master of Fine Arts degree can open doors to creative and academic opportunities, graduates often face significant challenges when establishing a long-term career. These include:

• Competitive Job Market: MFA-related careers, particularly in fine arts, creative writing, theater, and academia, often have limited openings compared to the number of graduates. Many positions, such as tenure-track faculty or high-profile artistic roles, are highly competitive.
• Financial Instability: Careers in the arts can be unpredictable, with many professionals relying on freelance, project-based, or adjunct teaching work. This irregular income stream can make financial planning and stability more difficult than in other fields.
• Student Loan Burden: MFA programs can be expensive, and while some students secure funding through assistantships, others graduate with significant debt. Balancing repayment with variable income can be stressful.
• Need for Supplementary Work: Many MFA graduates find they must pursue secondary income sources (teaching, commercial design, or unrelated jobs) to support their artistic practice, especially early in their careers.
• Pressure for Recognition and Networking: Success in creative industries often depends not only on talent but also on building strong professional networks, maintaining visibility, and securing recognition through exhibitions, publications, or performances.
• Geographic Limitations: Opportunities in the arts are often concentrated in urban hubs (e.g., New York, Los Angeles, Chicago), which may require relocation. This can be costly and difficult, especially for graduates with family or financial constraints.

Despite these challenges, many MFA graduates find fulfillment in combining multiple professional paths, such as teaching, freelancing, and personal creative projects, to build sustainable and rewarding careers, especially when paired with additional credentials like those offered by the fastest online master of arts in teaching programs.

What alternative career paths can Master of Fine Arts degree graduates pursue?

While many MFA graduates aim for careers in studio art, writing, theater, or higher education, the skills gained in an MFA program, such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, project management, and visual or written storytelling, translate well into a variety of industries.

For those curious about gaming, understanding what qualifications do I need to be a video game designer can open doors to roles that blend artistic talent with technical skills. Some alternative career paths include:

• Creative Industries and Media: Roles in film, television, animation, advertising, or gaming where MFA graduates contribute as writers, designers, or art directors.
• Content Creation and Digital Media: Careers in social media strategy, digital marketing, podcasting, and multimedia storytelling.
• Corporate and Brand Communications: Positions in copywriting, brand development, internal communications, and design for businesses seeking creative perspectives.
• Arts Administration and Nonprofits: Opportunities in program management, development, community outreach, and curation within museums, galleries, and cultural organizations.
• Publishing and Editing: Work as editors, literary agents, or content managers in traditional publishing houses and digital platforms.
• Education and Training (Non-Tenure Roles): Teaching in community programs, K-12 arts education, professional development workshops, or online learning platforms.
• Therapeutic and Community Arts: Using artistic practice in art therapy, community engagement, or wellness programs, sometimes requiring additional certification.
• Entrepreneurship and Freelancing: Launching creative businesses, independent studios, or consulting services in design, writing, or performance.

These paths allow MFA graduates to apply their artistic training in flexible and financially sustainable ways, often combining multiple roles to balance creative fulfillment with career stability. Regardless, about 56% of arts and design graduates report working in an art or design-related occupation according to the Strategic National Arts Alumni Project.

What Master of Fine Arts Degree Graduates Say About Their Careers

Other Things to Know About Pursuing a Master of Fine Arts Degree

Is it hard to find a job with an MFA?

Finding a job with an MFA can be challenging because many artistic and academic positions are highly competitive and limited in number. While tenure-track teaching roles and high-profile creative positions are difficult to secure, MFA graduates often find opportunities through freelance work, arts organizations, cultural institutions, and digital media platforms.

Success typically requires persistence, networking, and a strong portfolio that demonstrates both skill and originality.

How useful is a fine arts degree?

A fine arts degree is highly useful for developing creative, analytical, and technical skills that apply across multiple industries.

Beyond traditional studio art or performance roles, the degree cultivates abilities in critical thinking, problem-solving, visual and written communication, and project management, which are valuable in fields like design, media, publishing, marketing, and education.

Its versatility allows graduates to pursue both artistic practice and complementary professional paths.

Can MFA graduates work remotely or freelance?

Yes, many MFA graduates work remotely or pursue freelance careers, leveraging their skills in creative fields such as digital design, content creation, writing, illustration, or multimedia production.

Freelancing offers flexibility, the ability to diversify income streams, and opportunities to collaborate with clients and organizations around the world. Remote work has become increasingly feasible in both artistic and commercial applications, allowing graduates to combine personal projects with professional assignments.

What short-term programs or certifications can complement an MFA?

Yes, many MFA graduates work remotely or pursue freelance careers, leveraging their skills in creative fields such as digital design, content creation, writing, illustration, or multimedia production.

Freelancing offers flexibility, the ability to diversify income streams, and opportunities to collaborate with clients and organizations around the world. Remote work has become increasingly feasible in both artistic and commercial applications, allowing graduates to combine personal projects with professional assignments.