I wrote this as a sort of quick-guide for those trying to self-assess the value of Academia in relation to their current development.
As someone who attended University for Visual Arts, this will maybe add some perspective from my experience as well as provide alternate solutions for those who can't attend college.
A few of disclaimers to consider.
1. I hold a 4 year bachelors degree (The master and below sections I claim no personal experience with so consider my professional opinion)
2. I was for a brief period of time doing portrait commissions regularly. Aside from a couple juried art show placings. I haven't had any major accolades beyond that.
3. Be skeptical! Consider my quality of work as credential. (IG in profile)
4. I was "self-taught" before attending university. and benefited from formal training.
5. I believe the Associate skill level is all that's needed to do anything serious. Anything after that will likely come natural through personal experience.
Associates (~1-2 years)
Can I offer minimal effective assistance towards a professional artist on their project?
Alt. Resolution - Work on flats for a friends comic, make advertisement content, offer consultation etc...
Can I create in a variety of art styles and mediums at a functional capacity?
Alt. Resolution - Learn to create in 2 or more different medias and mediums
Can I discuss and understand a variety of topics regarding art-history and industry trends with a professional?
Alt. Resolution - Start reading a book on art history, buy a year membership to your local art museum and attend a couple lectures, subscribe to an art magazine.
You should know how to present yourself at any given professional art event and setting and leave a desirable impression.
Bachelors (~4 years)
Associates +
Can I confidently start/lead a small-scale project or exhibition of my discipline?
Alt. Resolution - Start submitting works to art shows
Can I bear responsibilities and delegate duties in order to ensure a significant outcome?
Alt. Resolution - Start an art project that requires financial investing (something you can't do without another professional marketer, service etc...)
Can I maintain personal development as an artist and citizen?
Alt. Resolution - Join a club/circle with other professional/semi-professionals (not necessarily other artists)
You should be able to work for a company an demonstrate confidence and creative work-ethic.
Master (~5 years)
Bachelors +
Could I take over an existing industry-level project that has already been developed and make creative decisions based on trends?
Alt. Resolution Get a certification in a specific art technology/tool.
Could I submit a publication in my discipline and body of work?
Alt. Write an article for your community arts program.
BFA/PHD (~5-8 years)
Bachelors +
Can I improve or innovate the industry standards or theory?
Can I lecture on a topic to other professionals?
Can I get a decent sized project funded by investors?