Fine Arts at Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
30
Optimistic
29
Base Case
26
Pessimistic
Earnings
$26,795/yr (6% vs median)
AI Risk
Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI
9.4x earnings multiple
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 | $477K | $478K | $450K |
| Earnings Multiple | 9.4x | 9.4x | 8.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 41% | 37% | 31% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 30 | 29 | 26 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$50,800
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,500
10.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$41,109
53% growth from Year 1
About Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University has a 70% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 11,277 students in Dekalb, IL. Pell Grant recipients make up 46% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.
See all programs and financial aid at Northern Illinois 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
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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 is the DegreeOutlook Score for Fine Arts at Northern Illinois University?
A score of 29/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Fine Arts. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →