Fine Artsat East Tennessee State University
Graduates earn $16,696/yr in their first year — about 34.0% below the national Fine Arts average. Base-case 10-year earnings $420K; scenarios range from $402K to $413K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at East Tennessee State University
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.
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 East Tennessee State 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 Fine Arts
How East Tennessee State University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at East Tennessee State University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at East Tennessee State University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Fine Arts offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Fine Arts trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Fine Arts at East Tennessee State University
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.