I am coming up for air a bit (not much). Work at ASU has been steady and draining, but I am happy with it still. I just was testing a project our group designed for the provost, called eAdvisor, and I found the comparison of these two degrees enlightening, especially the career opportunities sections:
Graphic Design, BSD
“Career Opportunities
Graduates work for corporate identity firms, advertising agencies, architects, graphic and/or environmental graphic firms, book publishers, multimedia specialists, publication firms, museums, and film/television animation studios. Graduates also work for in-house design departments, such as computer software companies; television stations; utility corporations; manufacturing companies; city, state, and federal agencies; nonprofit organizations; commercial retail stores; and educational institutions.”
Theatre (Acting), BA
“Career Opportunities
The B.A. is an excellent broad-based foundation for work in the profession or to prepare the student for further training at graduate schools or conservatories. The programs liberal arts emphasis prepares the student for a variety of occupations. The concentration in acting offers students advanced study that can lead to careers in theatre, film or media. A degree in the arts offers students a pathway to a rich and varied choice of careers. Uncover the possibilities your major holds by exploring the online resources we’ve assembled at http://herbergercollege.asu.edu/students/career/mymajor.html.”
I think it’s interesting the verbs that are chosen. Now, it is apples and oranges, a BA is historically fairly broad and useless, and a BS is much more specific and professional. I did not know that when I was 18. Nor would I have listened, because I was certain no matter what education I was given, I was exceptional and would be whatever I decided to be. I underestimated the power of a strong and direct education, because I had always had one previously. Hindsight is indeed 20/20. I would agree that my BA prepared me for my BSD. It’s not efficient, but it seems to be working out for me.