Many students choose the arts stream for their interest, but keep wondering whether it can lead to a high-paying career or not. But here’s the truth: Arts stream is full of opportunities, and it can include some of the highest-paying jobs, too.
Arts is not a stream that can be underestimated. It has some incredible opportunities, especially in media, design, psychology and even international relations. So if you are a student who is dreaming big or planning to study abroad, this guide will help you go through the highest-paying jobs in the arts stream and learn how to get there.
Table of contents
- Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the Arts Stream
- 1. Lawyer
- 2. Creative Director (Advertising & Media)
- 3. Psychologist / Therapist
- 4. UX/UI Designer
- 5. International Relations Specialist / Diplomat
- 6. Art Director (Film, TV, or Gaming)
- 7. Journalist / Foreign Correspondent
- 8. Corporate Communications Manager
- 9. Fashion Designer (Luxury Market)
- 10. Historian / Museum Curator (International)
- What Degrees Lead to These High-Paying Jobs?
- How to Study Abroad for These Careers?
- FAQs
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the Arts Stream
Let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for. Here are some of the top-paying careers after Arts stream. These jobs are not only exciting but also come with excellent salaries, especially if you’re ready to go abroad or gain international exposure.
1. Lawyer
Average Salary: USD 100,000 & GBP 80,000/year
Being a lawyer tops the list of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. Specialising in corporate, international, or intellectual property law can lead to a global career. Law graduates from prestigious universities often land high-paying roles in multinational firms, courts, or government bodies. Strong analytical and communication skills make Arts students a great fit for this profession.
2. Creative Director (Advertising & Media)
Average Salary: USD 90,000 – USD 150,000/year
Among the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream, the role of a Creative Director is a top pick. They lead the visual and messaging strategy for major campaigns. With a background in mass communication, fine arts, or design, you can work in global advertising agencies or media houses. Creativity, leadership, and storytelling are key to this exciting career.
3. Psychologist / Therapist
Average Salary: USD 70,000 – USD 120,000/year
Mental health careers are gaining global attention, making psychologist roles one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. Whether you pursue clinical therapy, counselling, or organisational psychology, a Master’s or PhD from a reputable university can take you far. This career is both emotionally rewarding and financially stable, especially in countries with high mental health awareness.
4. UX/UI Designer
Average Salary: USD 85,000 – USD 130,000/year
Design meets tech in this modern career path, making it one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. UX/UI designers create user-friendly digital experiences. With a degree in design or psychology and strong software skills, you can work for tech giants or startups. It’s a great choice for students who love creativity and problem-solving.
5. International Relations Specialist / Diplomat
Average Salary: USD 90,000 – USD 140,000/year
A highly respected and global career, this is one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. With a degree in political science or global studies, you can work with embassies, the UN, or international NGOs. It’s ideal for students interested in geopolitics, diplomacy, and cultural affairs. Strong communication and analytical thinking are a must.
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6. Art Director (Film, TV, or Gaming)
Average Salary: USD 80,000 – USD 150,000/year
Love storytelling and visuals? This creative role is among the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. Art Directors bring movies, TV shows, and games to life with stunning visuals. A degree from an art or film school and a good portfolio can land you in top studios or production houses abroad. Imagination and visual skills are essential.
7. Journalist / Foreign Correspondent
Average Salary: USD 70,000 – USD 120,000/year
Journalism is one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream for those who love current affairs and writing. International media houses hire Arts grads to cover politics, conflict, and global stories. A degree in journalism, experience, and strong reporting skills can help you thrive. Foreign correspondents often travel the world while earning well.
8. Corporate Communications Manager
Average Salary: USD 90,000 – USD 130,000/year
Big companies need experts to handle their messaging. That’s where Corporate Communications Managers come in, one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. With a background in communication or public relations, you’ll craft strategies, write speeches, and manage brand image. This career suits Arts students with strong writing, presentation, and strategic thinking skills.
9. Fashion Designer (Luxury Market)
Average Salary: USD 75,000 – USD 140,000/year
If you’re passionate about style, this could be your dream job. Fashion designing, especially in the luxury segment, is one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. A degree from top fashion schools like Parsons or Central Saint Martins can launch your global career. Creativity, trend awareness, and branding are key to success here.
10. Historian / Museum Curator (International)
Average Salary: USD 60,000 – USD 100,000/year
For those who love history, this role is surprisingly one of the highest-paying jobs in the Arts stream. Working in top museums or research centres abroad can offer stable and well-paying opportunities. A degree in history or archaeology and some specialisation (like art history) can open doors. This career blends passion with global exposure.
What Degrees Lead to These High-Paying Jobs?
Wondering what to study to land one of these top-paying jobs in the Arts stream? Choosing the right degree is your first big step. Here’s a quick guide to which courses lead to the best-paying roles, especially if you’re planning to study abroad.
| Career | Recommended Degree(s) |
| Lawyer | BA + LLB / JD / International Law |
| Creative Director | Mass Comm, Visual Arts, Graphic Design |
| Psychologist | BA/BSc in Psychology + Master’s/PhD |
| UX/UI Designer | Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Fine Arts |
| International Relations Specialist | Political Science, Global Studies, IR |
| Art Director | Film Studies, Visual Arts, Fine Arts |
| Journalist | Journalism, Media Studies, Mass Communication |
| Corp. Communications Manager | English, PR, Mass Comm |
| Fashion Designer | Fashion Design, Textile Design |
| Museum Curator | History, Archaeology, Museum Studies |
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How to Study Abroad for These Careers?
If you’re planning to go abroad for your studies, you’re already on the right track. Studying internationally not only boosts your career but also gives you a global edge, especially in high-paying Arts stream jobs. Let’s walk through the key steps to get you there.
1. Pick the Right University
Choose a globally recognised university that shines in your field. For example, Parsons for fashion, LSE for political science, or NYU for journalism. Your college brand can open doors to top internships, recruiters, and industry networks. Do your research and aim high.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio or Resume
For creative careers like design, media, or film, your portfolio matters just as much as your degree. For others, like law or psychology, relevant internships or research experience add weight. Start early and keep updating your work to match global standards.
3. Start Networking Early
Don’t wait until graduation. Attend university events, workshops, and career fairs. Join student clubs and connect with professors and alumni. Networking is key in fields like journalism, law, and communication, especially if you’re planning to work abroad after studies.
4. Look Out for Scholarships and Visa Rules
Many countries offer great scholarships for Arts students. Stay updated through university websites and global education portals. Also, check post-study work visa options, countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK are super student-friendly with extended work permits.
5. Focus on Skills That Stand Out Globally
Whether it’s multilingual communication for diplomats or tech tools for UX designers, build skills that are in demand internationally. Soft skills like adaptability, teamwork, and creativity also matter. Keep learning outside the classroom to stay ahead in the global job race.
The Arts stream offers more than just creativity, it opens doors to some of the highest-paying jobs globally. Whether you’re into law, design, media, or diplomacy, the right degree and international exposure can take you far. So dream big, plan smart, and let your passion pay off.
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FAQs
Yes! Many jobs in law, media, psychology, and design pay extremely well, especially with global exposure.
The US, Switzerland, Germany, and the UK are top-paying countries for Arts careers.
Absolutely! Many universities abroad offer undergraduate programs in the arts and humanities.
Law, creative direction, and UX design are among the highest-paying fields.
Yes! It’s one of the most in-demand fields globally with great income potential.
Depends on the role. It can range from USD 50,000 to USD 150,000+ annually.
Not all. But for UX/UI design or digital media, basic tech skills help a lot.
Yes! Many Arts graduates transition into MBA, marketing, or tech-related roles.
Not if you’re skilled and keep up with trends. The luxury fashion market pays well.
Start with projects, internships, personal blogs, or design platforms like Behance.
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