Choosing an undergraduate course in the arts is more than just a decision about what to study it’s about discovering who you are, what fuels your curiosity, and where your passions can take you. For many students, stepping into an arts course is like walking into a world filled with endless possibilities, each one tailored to inspire creativity, reflection, and growth. But how do you choose from the abundance of available courses? Let’s dive into the fascinating landscape of undergraduate arts courses and how each can shape your journey.
1. The Classic Pathway: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
For centuries, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree has been a cornerstone of liberal arts education. This degree isn’t just about mastering one subject—it’s about expanding your thinking, gaining a deeper understanding of the world, and learning how to communicate those ideas with clarity.
Specialisations in B.A. come in numerous forms: from English Literature, where students are invited to delve into centuries of prose, poetry, and drama, to History, where the human story unfolds in all its complexity. One of the most beautiful aspects of a B.A. is its interdisciplinary nature. As a student, I remember not being able to decide between my love for literature and my curiosity for political science. My professors encouraged me to explore both, allowing me to draw connections between narrative structures in literature and ideological shifts in politics.
2. Expressing Yourself: Fine Arts and Performing Arts
If there’s one thing that the arts can do, it’s to help us express the inexpressible. For students whose creativity flows through visual or performing mediums, degrees like Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) or Bachelor of Performing Arts (B.P.A.) are gateways to honing their craft. These degrees are not just about technical skills—they are about translating the abstract emotions and ideas inside you into something that others can experience and feel.
Imagine spending your days in a studio, surrounded by brushes and canvases, where each stroke of paint brings you closer to revealing your inner world. This is the life of a B.F.A. student in painting or sculpture. I recall visiting a friend’s exhibition and marvelling at the way her work communicated emotions that words could never fully capture. She described her time as a B.F.A. student as a journey into herself learning not just how to create art, but how to trust her instincts, take risks, and share her vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, for those drawn to the stage, a Bachelor in Performing Arts might be the perfect fit. Whether through dance, theatre, or music, performing arts students learn to tell stories through movement, voice, and sound. A classmate who majored in theatre once told me, “Every time I perform, it’s like living a thousand lives. It’s not just about memorizing lines it’s about inhabiting a character’s soul and making the audience feel it too.”
3. The Power of Media
Journalism and Mass Communication In our ever-connected world, the ability to communicate effectively and ethically is more important than ever. B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication prepares students to become the voices behind the stories that inform, entertain, and engage society.
When I was in college, I had friends who were journalism majors. They were always on the lookout for the next big story, ready to investigate, interview, and write with a passion that could change minds. One of them went on to become a war correspondent, traveling to conflict zones to report stories that wouldn’t otherwise be told. Another found her place in digital marketing, using her communication skills to build brands that resonate with people on a personal level.
A course in mass communication doesn’t just teach you to be a journalist it equips you to work in film, television, digital media, and even public relations. As a journalism student, you’re essentially learning to craft narratives that shape the world’s understanding of itself. There’s an enormous responsibility in that.
4 Embracing Diversity
Language and Literature Studies One of the most beautiful aspects of studying arts is the chance to dive deep into different cultures and languages. For students with a passion for literature or a love of languages, there are numerous options like B.A. in English Literature or degrees in foreign languages
Studying literature allows you to engage with the greatest minds throughout history and across cultures. Whether it’s Shakespeare’s meditations on power and identity or the existential musings of Sartre, literature students don’t just learn to analyze—they learn to empathize, seeing the world through the eyes of countless characters. I still remember how studying postcolonial literature helped me better understand the struggles of marginalized communities. It opened my eyes to the way narratives can both empower and oppress.
Language students, on the other hand, step into the shoes of polyglots, opening themselves up to new linguistic worlds. Whether you study French, Spanish, or Mandarin, language learning isn’t just about grammar and vocabulary—it’s about connecting with people, understanding their worldviews, and expanding your cultural horizons. One of my closest friends pursued a degree in Comparative Literature, which allowed her to compare works across different cultures and languages, finding both common ground and fascinating contrasts.
5. The Quest for Understanding
Social Sciences and HumanitiesIf you’re a person like that who looks at the world and constantly asks, “Why?”, then the Social Sciences and Humanities might call to you. With options like Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, or Anthropology, these courses are designed to foster a deep understanding of human behavior, societal systems, and political frameworks.
I once spoke with a psychology student who explained how she was drawn to the field because she wanted to understand why people experience the world so differently. “It’s more than just understanding mental illness,” she said. “It’s about understanding how our minds work, how we form relationships, and how we cope with life’s challenges.” She’s now pursuing a career in counseling, helping others navigate the complexities of their emotions and experiences.
6. Creating New Worlds
Design, Fashion, and Visual Arts For students interested in blending creativity with practical skills, degrees in Design, Fashion, or Visual Arts open up worlds of innovation and self-expression. I remember attending a fashion show organized by a group of students from a nearby design college. Each piece told a story, from environmental activism to personal identity. It was amazing to see how these students combined creativity with craftsmanship to produce something that was not only beautiful but meaningful.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Path
Choosing an undergraduate course in the arts isn’t just about preparing for a job it’s about preparing for life. It’s about discovering what makes you come alive, what sparks your curiosity, and what you can contribute to the world. Whether you’re drawn to history, fine arts, or mass communication, each path is a stepping stone toward self-discovery and impact.
Arts education is a personal journey that shapes not just your future career, but your understanding of the world and your place in it. If you’re about to embark on this journey, take your time. Reflect on your passions and dreams. And remember, whichever course you choose, will lead you to a deeper understanding of both the world and yourself.