Designat Arkansas Tech University
Graduates earn $20,285/yr in their first year — about 40.0% below the national Design average. Base-case 10-year earnings $495K; scenarios range from $470K to $495K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Arkansas Tech University
The earnings data for Design and Applied Arts at Arkansas Tech suggests a challenging financial path compared to similar programs nationally. This often reflects the regional labor market; smaller cities like Russellville have fewer high-paying design opportunities than major metros. You might find roles primarily in local marketing departments, small agencies, or generalist positions for regional businesses, which typically offer lower compensation than specialized design roles in tech or advertising hubs.
Given the high AI risk and regional salary trends, your success hinges on developing a highly specialized, in-demand portfolio. Focus on skills that transcend basic automation, like strategic design thinking, user experience (UX) research, or complex animation. Actively seek out remote internships or co-ops with companies outside the immediate region, and be prepared to relocate for better career prospects post-graduation. Building a strong network and showcasing unique value will be critical.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Arkansas Tech University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Design
How Arkansas Tech University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Arkansas Tech University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Arkansas Tech University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Design offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Design trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Design at Arkansas Tech University
What does a 28/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Design at Arkansas Tech University?
At 28/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Design programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Design degree from Arkansas Tech University?
At $28,950 in median debt, graduates carry 17 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Design at Arkansas Tech University?
The 38% 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 Arkansas Tech University a good choice for Design despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Arkansas Tech University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.