Earning a degree in the arts is a great step towards creating a meaningful career in the nonprofit sector.
For those of us who dedicate our careers to the nonprofit sector, we work to improve not only our communities but also the greater world around us. Similarly, those who study and work in the arts, including the humanities, social sciences, and/or interdisciplinary fields such as fine arts, value human connection and creating positive change. Therefore, it’s not surprising to find a lot of people with arts degrees working for nonprofit organizations.
Don’t for a minute think that arts degrees can only be put to use in industries closely related to the arts! An arts degree is an incredibly transferable qualification that can open a variety of doors, especially across the nonprofit sector.
Benefits of an arts degree
One of the main pros of an arts degree is gaining hard and soft skills that are in high demand by employers. Hard skills are job-specific, technical skills (e.g., software management, media literacy, data analysis etc.). In contrast, soft skills are non-job-specific skills that can apply to many fields (e.g., leadership, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, communication, etc.). These skills are heavily taught in the arts and are extremely transferrable!
Another great benefit of an arts degree is making industry connections. Arts programs often come with excellent networking opportunities, including internships, professional development sessions, workshops, and community events.
Finally, arts degrees help people gain new perspectives and insight into the world around them and, in particular, issues relating to social justice, community programming, and current needs in terms of social services. This unique knowledge is integral for nonprofits since it often drives their very mission.
What roles could an arts degree prepare you for?
As stated previously, arts degrees offer an opportunity for you to pivot throughout your career. While there is no limit to the types of roles you may work in, here are some common jobs that an arts degree is invaluable for within the nonprofit sector:
- Writer
- Marketing Manager
- Designer
- Public Relations Specialist
- Event Planner
- Human Resources Manager
- Social Worker
- Teacher (i.e., ESL, French immersion)
- Community Engagement Coordinator
- Program Coordinator
- Recreation Professional
- Museum Curator
- Fundraiser
Nonprofit application tips for people with arts degrees
Nonprofits are all about passion and connecting with their organization’s work. When writing your cover letter and resume, and while interviewing, enforce how your background will be invaluable to the team. Remember to
- Show the value you bring,
- Highlight transferable experiences, and
- Focus on hard and soft skills.
Using your arts degree in your nonprofit role
Once hired, allow your experience and knowledge to help support your role and organization. Specifically, consider what areas of improvement are needed. Is there a certain facet of the community that needs support? Are there processes in place that need evaluation? Whatever it may be, use your critical thinking skills to not only maintain but improve your organization.
Summary
Whether you have just graduated with your arts degree or you are an established professional, it is important to remember that your degree is an invaluable asset, especially in the nonprofit sector! Your education has helped you become a more critical, compassionate, and creative version of yourself – so go and apply for those nonprofit jobs with confidence!
Julia Halabourda is an experienced Burnaby art and recreation programmer, educator (focus in the fine arts and theatre), and nonprofit writer. She has her Bachelor of General Studies from SFU’s Faculty of Education with Minors in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Psychology, and Social Justice in Education. She also has her Nonprofit Management Associate’s Certificate from BCIT. Julia has been writing with Charity Village since August 2020 and her past articles can be accessed here. Julia can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-halabourda/.
