Art and Design Associate Degree Can Get You Where You Want to Go

Paint a Bright Future with an Associate’s Degree in Art and Design from NECC

A student in the Art & Design program at our NECC Campus

Why pursue a degree in Art and Design?

Do you like to draw, paint, take photos, or use computer-aided design for artistic expression? If so, an Associate Degree in Art and Design could help you immerse yourself in a variety of creative endeavors, as you gain hands-on experience and build a network, sculpting the foundation for an artistic career or deeper education.

Artistic Ascent: NECC Degrees Paint Bright Futures

At NECC, our Associate Degree in Art and Design offers a mix of courses, including fine arts, multimedia, photography, graphic design, and more. While connecting with fellow artisans, completing our program will equip you with the skills necessary to pursue numerous entry-level jobs in the visual arts field. You’ll also have the option of transferring credits towards a bachelor’s degree in a related field, saving you thousands of dollars on your education!

Ready to explore where your creativity takes you?

Art and Design Degree Program at NECC

View video on the NECC YouTube Channel.

What you’ll get from our Art and Design program

Brush Up On Skills. Sculpt Your World.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of visual arts, where you’ll get to play with techniques, soak up history, and discover the magic behind creativity. At NECC, it’s not just about creating art. It’s about diving into communities that open doors to real, fulfilling careers in the arts and beyond – proving that following your passion can lead to
something truly great.

Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework

Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with others in the local community.

Gear Up for a Great Career in the Visual Arts Field

At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as the next great artist, a graphic designer, a museum curator, or something else, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:

Learn about the language, culture, and community of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Gain hands-on experience with the latest software programs for artists
Practice and refine your skills in fully equipped art studios
Gain invaluable real-world experience through an art or design internship
See your work professionally printed and posted while working on projects for NECC clubs and organizations
Participate in Portfolio Day, where representatives from regional and national art colleges can review your work and discuss transfer opportunities
Get an entry-level job or pursue freelance assignments

Your Schedule, Your Rules

Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around.

Once you’ve completed our Art and Design Associate’s Degree program, you’ll have the option of applying those credits towards a bachelor’s degree in an arts-related field at a four-year institution.

I’m always designing and I’ve been able to incorporate my business designs into school projects and vice versa. I love Northern Essex.”

CJay DiPrima, General Studies: Art

Where this journey can take you

Many entry-level Art and Design jobs offer much potential for growth. In some ways, starting out with an associate’s degree is an advantage – you can begin working in the field and decide whether you like it before investing additional time and money obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

You’ll be able to work in a broad array of industries that require visual communication, from advertising and marketing to healthcare, hospitality, and tourism. Many people in the art and design world also work on a freelance basis, allowing them to set their own hours, choose their projects, and be their own boss.

Imagine yourself serving in one of these roles:

Making a visual impact as a designer or illustrator
Preserving the past and enhancing the future as a museum or gallery curator
Helping others explore their emotions as an art therapist
Applying artistic theory as a user experience (UX) designer
Pursuing freelance assignments and making a living doing what you love
Many more!

Why choose NECC for your Art and Design degree?

We Get It

At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our Art and Design Associate Degree courses are designed with you in mind.

NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.

With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.

Learn from the Pros

Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe the fine arts and design.

NECC is home to two vibrant art spaces and a proud partner with our artistic community.

Experience Beyond the Classroom

At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.

Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.

We Got Your Back

From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.

Career Services

Career Services is here to assist you at every stage in your career development.

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NECC Connect

Networking and mentoring opportunities for NECC students and alumni.

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What Can I Do With This Major?

Map your NECC major to hundreds of career paths and opportunities.

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Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?

With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.

Support for Every Student

NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.

Accommodations at NECC

As an ADA-compliant institution, NECC is committed to serving the needs of students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities, including those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. We partner with multiple entities are dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the NECC community.

Do you have a documented disability? Are you Deaf or Hard of Hearing? If so, the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services (CARS) can connect you to the services you need to thrive at NECC.

Career outlook for Visual Artists north of Boston

The career outlook for professional artists and designers is bright, with available jobs projected to outpace qualified applicants over the next seven to eight years. At NECC, our Art and Design program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in various settings, including advertising and marketing agencies, government agencies, private companies, publishing houses, entertainment and hospitality venues, and more. Some work as independent contractors while others are self-employed.

How much can I expect to make as an Artist or Designer?

The earning potential for artists and designers in Massachusetts varies based on several factors, including education, role, experience, and employment setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median wage for those working in the visual arts field is $51,660.

With an Associate’s Degree in Art and Design from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these artistic roles:

Graphic Designer

Create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $76,092 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $68,234 and $85,111.¹

Interior Designer

Sketch various design plans, determine costs for different projects, and source materials and products for the designs. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $58,282 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $46,208 and $63,903.¹

Book Illustrator

Drawing pictures and images for books that breathe life into the written word. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $46,953 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $41,958 and $51,976.¹

Curator

Collect, exhibit, interpret, maintain, and protect objects of historical and aesthetic importance primarily in museums, libraries, and private collections. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $74,764 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $68,827 and $89,736.¹

Art Therapist

Use art to treat a variety of emotional issues and to provide a sense of wellness and healing. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $68,596 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $61,309 and $76,186.¹

User Experience (UX) Designer

Responsible for the look and feel of a product, website, or app. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $108,683 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $97,935 and $118,507.¹

Freelance Photographer

Taking photographs as an independent contractor or self-employed photographer. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $85,469 as of February, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $65,693 and $111,372.¹

How to get started as an Artist or Designer near the Merrimack Valley

Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the General Studies: Art and Design Associate Degree program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you? Contact us to chat more about why this could be the best decision you’ll ever make!

Program Costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, non-health for-credit courses have a cost of $263/credit for in-state students.

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Faculty

Department Chair

Michelle Carter

Email: mcarter@necc.mass.edu

Info Sessions & Tours

Come to an upcoming information session on either the Lawrence or the Haverhill campus and get all of your questions answered.

Stop by one of our Lawrence or Haverhill campus Career Planning and Advising Centers and meet with an enrollment counselor.

FAQs

How much does an associate degree cost?

Community college is now free for eligible Massachusetts residents!

For learners living in other New England states, we offer a reduced out-of-state rate. All others, including international students, pay the full out-of-state rate, before any financial aid awards are made.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

What types of financial aid are available?

There are three basic types of financial aid you can receive while attending NECC: grants and scholarships, loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships are a gift and carry no work or repayment requirements. Loans, regardless of the lending source, are funds that must be repaid. Loan repayment terms vary, while the actual loan gives you an opportunity to borrow against future earnings.

Available in on-campus and off-campus formats, all work-study jobs are part-time and filled on an as-needed basis.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I apply for financial aid?

At NECC, we understand that financial aid can make earning your college degree a reality. Many types of aid are available; funds that can be used to help pay for tuition and fees, books, and other personal costs. To qualify, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete the application process.

While you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at any time after October 1 to receive funds for the following academic year, we recommend you apply as early as possible since some grant funds are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The priority deadline for the state of Massachusetts is May 1. Although applications are accepted throughout the year, some state funds are awarded only to those who meet this deadline.

Please note: You must complete a FAFSA each academic year to be eligible for financial aid.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I transfer credits to NECC from another school?

Tried another college but had trouble making it work? At NECC, we make it easy for students to transfer from another school to ours. Roughly one-third of all NECC students have previously been enrolled at other colleges and then found success here. We welcome you to join them so you can get your education back on track!

Transfer to NECC

How do I transfer my NECC credits to a four-year school?

At NECC, our transfer agreements help ensure you are taking the right courses and electives so you can seamlessly transfer to the four-year college or university of your choice. We offer over 100 transfer agreements with public and private institutions.

Contact the Transfer and Advising Center to learn more.

Does the school assist with job placement?

At NECC, we want you to get a career you love. Our Career Services department is here to assist you at every stage in your career development. From career exploration and internships to landing that first job or navigating career changes, we can help you get on the right path to a career you will love! Whether you are a currently enrolled student or a recent grad, contact us and we can help you.

Our job placement specialists are here to learn about your academic interests and discuss related careers. NECC welcomes you to participate in our various career events and workshops and use our free resources to help you identify the right career for you.

How does NECC support diversity and inclusion?

NECC offers a positive and supportive learning environment of cultural inclusion; one which challenges prejudice, celebrates differences, embraces all identities, and inspires all students, staff, and faculty to succeed. As a Hispanic Serving Institution, we are passionate about closing racial equity gaps and ensuring the success of Hispanic members of our college and community.

What learning options are available if I work full-time?

At NECC, our staff and faculty understand that many of our students work or have other responsibilities outside the classroom. That’s why we offer flexible traditional and nontraditional learning options, including on-campus, online, and hybrid programs. Our online programs offer the same high-quality education and support as our on-campus programs, ensuring all students have an equal opportunity to thrive academically.

Online: Whether you want to complete one online class or your entire degree or certificate online, NECC’s online associate degree and certificate programs make it easy for you to enhance your knowledge and achieve your goals. On-campus: Northern Essex Community College is easily accessible from throughout the Merrimack Valley region to either of our campus locations in Haverhill and Lawrence, MA.

What is the average class size?

At NECC, inspiring our students and graduates to succeed is our top priority. That said, we understand that smaller class sizes help ensure that each student receives the personalized attention they deserve. Presently, our average class size is 16.3 students.

Does NECC have a study abroad program?

Are you interested in other cultures? Would you like to earn a degree while studying abroad? NECC understands that increasing your global awareness can help you gain an edge in the job market when you graduate. For students interested in other cultures or who want to travel and see new places, we offer an International Studies program.

Once accepted into the program, you can take advantage of short course opportunities to visit another country, study abroad for a semester, or increase your global awareness right here on campus by participating in One Geographic Region events or becoming a Global Scholar.

International Studies at NECC

Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.

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General Studies: Art and Design

Paint a Bright Future with an Associate’s Degree in Art and Design from NECC

Why pursue a degree in Art and Design?