Students who major in painting and drawing are responsible for purchasing some of their own tools and supplies. These include brushes, pens, pencils, canvases, and specialty papers.

You can begin developing your portfolio in high school with hobby and project work. As your skills develop, your portfolio improves.

Most people with degrees in painting and drawing become independent artists and teachers. Many local arts and craft centers, as well as community colleges, offer painting courses to the public. In addition, many seek work as illustrators.

Many programs offer personal studio space to BFA art students. Usually this is for junior- and senior-level students.

Most programs require that you display your finished pieces in a showing at the school's local gallery. Also, some schools allow you to sell your work in shows that are open to the public.

In some programs, painting and drawing are offered as separate specializations.