Profiles of Schools/Colleges in Tennessee (TN) Offering Animation, Design, Gaming, and Media Related Programs

It takes a tremendous amount of talent to create eye-catching illustrations, but in today’s competitive world of art, it takes more than talent to land a lucrative position. Top employers are looking for candidates with extraordinary talent, experience, and a degree in illustration or a related field. To be a successful illustrator, you must also have advanced computer skills, as many careers in the field require the use of industry-specific software.

Sure, the State of Tennessee is tops in the world of music, but did you know that The Volunteer State is also a leader in the art and design world? Tennessee’s art and culture scene attracts aspiring artists and spectators from across the region. Here’s why: Head to Memphis—the state’s largest city and the country’s 20th largest, where you’ll find Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Drive to Nashville—the state’s second largest city and the country’s 25th largest, to explore The Parthenon, Cheekwood Art & Gardens, and the Fine Arts Gallery at Vanderbilt University. Visit Knoxville, where you can spend the day admiring one of the state’s largest collections of contemporary art at the Knoxville Museum of Art, or take in a show at the famed Bijou Theater Center.

Tennessee is home to 109 Title IV degree-granting institutions. Just a few of the top colleges here include Vanderbilt University, Sewanee: The University of the South, Rhodes College, Union University, and The University of Tennessee. These schools, along with the state’s other Title IVs, have met five requirements established by the U.S. Department of Education. They (1) offer a program of at least 300 clock hours in length, (2) have accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, (3) have been in business for at least 2 years, (4) have signed a participation agreement with the Department, and (5) grant an associate's degree or higher.

The graphic design industry is growing at a steady pace and academic institutions across the U.S. have taken notice. In 2002, the U.S. was home to 141,830 graphic designers. By 2006, the population jumped to 190,880 in 2006. Today the country is home to 191,550 salaried graphic designers. The U.S. is home to 1,725,670 salaried artists and designers.