Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $25,596 track close to the $25,391 national median for Fine and Studio Arts programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 11.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Fine and Studio Arts career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At a 1.0x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.
A #223 ranking among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs places Eastern Kentucky University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 38% earnings increase from $25,596 to $35,404 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.