What can I do with a major in Integrative Arts?
No college degree can guarantee you a job upon graduation, and Integrative Arts is definitely one of those degree programs where your own imagination and incentive will play an important role. Yes, there are careers available in the arts, but they take a drive, determination, and often a willingness to find your own path.
Any interested student should know that for many jobs in the arts—on the stage, in the studio—the work in your portfolio or the talent and professionalism you display during an audition will be more important determinants of success than the coursework on your official transcript.
But many arts employers are also keenly interested in experience—for that reason, we urge all of our majors to take advantage of extracurricular opportunities on campus and to aggressively pursue independent study and internship opportunities. Students can work with local arts organizations or take advantage of our proximity to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington DC, and New York City to do a semester-long internship.
Is the Integrative Arts degree at Penn State Altoona the best option for my college and career goals?
In some cases, it may be, but in other cases, it may not. Your adviser can give you an honest assessment of what coursework and other opportunities we offer here, and help you make the wisest choice.
If you have specific questions about careers in a particular arts area—theatre, or photography, or dance—ask the professor who teaches those courses. He or she will be your best resource.
For more information about possible Internships, visit the Penn State Altoona Academic Internship site.
