Fine Arts at East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
22 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
22
Optimistic
22
Base Case
20
Pessimistic
Earnings $16,696/yr (-34% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 10.6x earnings multiple (7.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #346 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data here reflects the unique dynamics of pursuing fine and studio arts in the East Tennessee region. While the program at ETSU offers a strong foundation, the local labor market around Johnson City and the broader Appalachian area isn't a primary hub for the high-paying commercial art, animation, or advertising roles often found in major metropolitan centers. Many graduates find success in local galleries, teaching positions, or by building independent studios and contributing to a vibrant community arts scene. However, these paths often have a different income trajectory than those pursuing roles in major studios or advertising agencies. If you're considering this path, actively build a diverse portfolio that showcases market-ready skills and be prepared to leverage your network beyond the immediate region if your ambition is a high-earning commercial art career.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Fine Arts graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $413K $420K $402K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.4x 10.6x 10.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.5x 7.6x 7.3x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 22 22 20

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$39,800
Out-of-state: $55,160 (7.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$63,176
-59% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,000
15.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$26,651
60% growth from Year 1

About East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University has a 87% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 9,807 students in Johnson City, TN.

See all programs and financial aid at East Tennessee State University →

Top Career Paths

Art directors $111,040/yr
Special effects artists and animators $99,800/yr
Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
View all 12 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Fine Arts at Other Schools

Other Majors at East Tennessee State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Fine Arts at East Tennessee State University?
At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Fine Arts programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Fine Arts degree from East Tennessee State University?
At $22,000 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is East Tennessee State University a good choice for Fine Arts despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If East Tennessee State 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 →