Career roadmap
How to Become an Art, Drama and Music Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an art, drama and music professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an art, drama and music professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s in the arts, (2) build a body of work, (3) earn an MFA or DMA, (4) teach as adjunct, (5) get hired. Most people need about 6–9 years after high school. BLS lists “master's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an art, drama and music professor
Earn a bachelor’s in the arts
BFA or BM.
Build a body of work
Exhibit or perform.
Earn an MFA or DMA
Terminal degree.
Teach as adjunct
Experience.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
An MFA, DMA or related graduate degree is typical, along with a strong creative record.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Master's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6–9 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- MFA: Master of Fine Arts.
- DMA: Doctor of Musical Arts.
- Exhibition or performance record: Professional work.
- Teaching certificate: Optional.
Skills to build now
Start with artistic expertise, studio or performance teaching, and critique, and practice creativity and encouragement. Learning the art, drama and music professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Adjunct Instructor: Teach part-time.
- Assistant Professor: Faculty.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Art, Drama and Music Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
What degree do art professors need?
Usually an MFA or DMA.
How long does it take to become an art, drama and music professor?
Most people need about 6–9 years after high school of training. An MFA, DMA or related graduate degree is typical, along with a strong creative record.
Do you need a degree to be an art, drama and music professor?
Usually. BLS lists a master’s degree as typical. In the arts, the terminal degree is often an MFA or DMA, and a strong portfolio or performance record matters as much as the degree.
What certifications are available for art, drama and music professors?
Common credentials include MFA, DMA, Exhibition or performance record, and Teaching certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1121 (Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.