Fine Arts at Morehead State University

Morehead, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
23
Optimistic
23
Base Case
21
Pessimistic
Earnings $17,301/yr (-32% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 11.1x earnings multiple (7.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #328 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs

Program Analysis

Pursuing a fine and studio arts degree from Morehead State offers a path to creative expression, but it's important to understand the regional economic context. Situated in rural Kentucky, the local job market for fine artists differs significantly from major metropolitan areas where high-paying commercial art, design, or entertainment industry roles are concentrated. The program likely prepares you for roles within local education, community arts organizations, or independent studio work, which typically don't command the salaries seen in competitive urban markets for positions like art director or animator. Your success will depend on actively building a robust portfolio and networking broadly. Consider internships or projects that expose you to diverse art markets and build a versatile skill set, preparing you to create opportunities beyond the immediate geographic area.

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 $431K $437K $416K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.0x 11.1x 10.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.3x 7.4x 7.1x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 23 23 21

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$39,352
Out-of-state: $58,824 (7.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$40,356
-3% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
17.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$29,739
72% growth from Year 1

About Morehead State University

A 82% acceptance rate means Morehead State University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 4,689 students in Morehead, KY.

See all programs and financial aid at Morehead 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 Morehead State University

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

What does a 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Fine Arts at Morehead State University?
At 23/100, 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 Morehead State University?
At $25,000 in median debt, graduates carry 17 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Morehead State University a good choice for Fine Arts despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Morehead 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 →