Apparel and Textiles at Academy of Art University

San Francisco, CA · Private for-profit · Bachelor's Degree
28 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
28
Optimistic
28
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $27,630/yr (-23% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (133,800 openings/yr)
ROI 3.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #51 of 53 Apparel and Textiles programs

Program Analysis

The data reflects the significant hurdles graduates from this specific type of program often face. As a for-profit institution, the tuition structure can be demanding, and the institutional support for direct career placement or a robust alumni network in high-paying roles may not be as strong as at some traditional non-profits. While San Francisco offers a vibrant creative scene, it's not a primary hub for large-scale apparel manufacturing or corporate fashion headquarters, which can limit local entry-level opportunities. The apparel and textiles industry is intensely competitive, often requiring an exceptional portfolio, extensive networking, and sometimes years of low-paid internships to secure sustainable roles. Your success will heavily depend on your ability to forge your own path, build a standout portfolio, and aggressively network. Carefully evaluate how any program directly connects you with industry leaders and provides practical, marketable skills for a sustainable career.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Apparel and Textiles graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $398K $409K $400K
Earnings Multiple 3.6x 3.6x 3.6x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 48% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 28 28 29

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$112,096
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,500
11.1 months of Year 1 earnings

About Academy of Art University

with a smaller student body of 4,131 in San Francisco, CA. 42% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Academy of Art University →

Top Career Paths

Marketing managers $161,030/yr
Materials scientists $104,160/yr
Fashion designers $80,690/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Apparel and Textiles at Other Schools

Other Majors at Academy of Art University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 28/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Apparel and Textiles at Academy of Art University?
At 28/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Apparel and Textiles programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Apparel and Textiles at Academy of Art University?
The 47% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Academy of Art University a good choice for Apparel and Textiles despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Academy of Art University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →