Fine Arts at McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
37
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings
$31,226/yr (23% vs median)
AI Risk
Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI
13.1x earnings multiple (11.1x out-of-state)
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 | $438K | $442K | $420K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.9x | 13.1x | 12.4x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 11.0x | 11.1x | 10.5x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 41% | 37% | 31% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 37 | 37 | 32 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$33,840
Out-of-state: $39,840 (11.1x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,615
9.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$20,618
Small cohort — data may not reflect typical outcomes
About McNeese State University
McNeese State University's 68% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, a smaller institution with 4,846 students in Lake Charles, LA.
See all programs and financial aid at McNeese 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
Compare & Explore
Fine Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at McNeese 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
How does McNeese State University's Fine Arts program score?
This program scores 37/100 — on the lower end for Fine Arts. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why does McNeese State University rank so high for Fine Arts?
The #45 ranking out of 385 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →