True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist, according to Albert Einstein. And one who is interested in becoming an artist should feel great passion, expectation, and potential. The field of art has expanded as technology has introduced software which has linked computer expertise with traditional art. Yet a career as an artist still usually falls under one of three main categories - fine artist, art director and multimedia artist.

Regardless of your chosen art career path, required coursework for an art degree may include foundation courses like color theory, drawing, design, art history, visual composition and typography. Then, depending on your specialty, you will take additional coursework to hone your skills. The fine artist might study painting, sculpture, illustration, printmaking and sketching. The potential art director might study graphic design, copy writing, layout design and photography. The multimedia artist would need artistic skills similar to the fine artist and art director, but would also learn how to incorporate computer graphics, drawing and illustration programs into their work.

Although many may think that an artist does not need a formal education, this does not ring true in todays world. In fact, even when you study the great artists -- like Michelangelo, Rodin, Van Gogh, Dali, Picasso -- you will find that they studied their craft diligently, usually under the tutelage of a master teacher. You have the opportunity to enroll in art school and learn from many accomplished teachers.

Art is defined as any form of human activity that is the product of and appeals primarily to the imagination. As an artist, you can truly accomplish what you can dream. Once you are trained, there are potentially hundreds of employment opportunities available. Or you can join the ranks of successfully self-employed artists. After all, the sky is the limit.