Fine Arts at Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, MN · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
42 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
43
Optimistic
42
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,717/yr (52% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 12.4x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #13 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs Top 5%

Program Analysis

The strong outcomes from this Fine and Studio Arts program likely stem from a combination of its practical emphasis and its strategic location. While the major title might suggest traditional art forms, the career paths point to a curriculum that effectively prepares students for commercially viable roles in applied design, digital media, and animation. Mankato’s proximity to the Twin Cities provides crucial access to a broader creative economy, with opportunities in advertising agencies, tech companies, and entertainment studios seeking visual talent. Many graduates translate their foundational artistic skills into professional design, visual communication, and even specialized effects roles. To maximize your potential, actively seek internships in Minneapolis-St. Paul and prioritize building a diverse portfolio showcasing both your traditional artistry and your digital design capabilities.

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 $467K $469K $442K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.3x 12.4x 11.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.2x 6.2x 5.9x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 43 42 37

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$37,960
Out-of-state: $75,440 (6.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$74,436
-96% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,125
8.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,457
10% growth from Year 1

About Minnesota State University-Mankato

Minnesota State University-Mankato has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a mid-sized student body of 11,325 in Mankato, MN.

See all programs and financial aid at Minnesota State University-Mankato →

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

Compare Fine Arts

Other Majors at Minnesota State University-Mankato

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Minnesota State University-Mankato's Fine Arts program score?
This program scores 42/100 — on the lower end for Fine Arts. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why does Minnesota State University-Mankato rank so high for Fine Arts?
The #13 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 →