Background (for dissertation)

   The researcher has been an active commercial artist all his life, with a 1982 BFA in Illustration from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
   Perhaps it is best stated now that the author has or currently works for the International Academy of Design & Technology and the Art Institute (both at Tampa, FL). It is impressive how these institutions are in relationship to the subject matter that inspires this pursuit. Both institutions tie coursework outside the major to the major, as well as making available courses that contextualize the major in the business world as it is. Along with that curricula shift, each school supports an entire department devoted to researching and networking the immediate community to support career placement as a graduation transition occurs.
   In contrast, the 1982 undergrad degree at UArts was considered the best commercial art university experience worldwide at the time. But in the 1970’s and ‘80’s our “gen ed’s” (general education classes) were not specifically designed to support our majors. Indeed, there is no recollection of even one business-type class offered at all. Moreover, we did not have a career placement department.
   Things may be changing. The research seeks to find out how much; and whether it makes a difference.