Fine Arts at Otis College of Art and Design

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
15 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
16
Optimistic
15
Base Case
14
Pessimistic
Earnings $11,590/yr (-54% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 1.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #384 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs

Program Analysis

While the data on this page highlights a challenging financial outlook, it reflects the unique realities of pursuing a Fine and Studio Arts degree, especially from a private institution in a competitive market like Los Angeles. Otis provides an excellent studio education and connects you to a vibrant art scene. However, careers in fine art are often non-linear, demanding significant entrepreneurial spirit, self-promotion, and networking. Many graduates initially pursue a portfolio of income sources, blending commissions, teaching, gallery work, or art-adjacent roles that don't always align with traditional salary structures. The sheer volume of artistic talent in Southern California means standing out requires exceptional dedication and business acumen. If this path is for you, actively cultivate a strong professional network and critically assess how your artistic vision can translate into sustainable income streams beyond pure gallery sales.

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 $417K $424K $405K
Earnings Multiple 1.9x 1.9x 1.8x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 16 15 14

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$222,052
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$183,456
17% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$28,500
29.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$24,402
111% growth from Year 1

About Otis College of Art and Design

With 84% of applicants admitted, Otis College of Art and Design prioritizes broad access, a smaller institution with 1,242 students in Los Angeles, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at Otis College of Art and Design →

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 Otis College of Art and Design

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 15/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Fine Arts at Otis College of Art and Design?
At 15/100, 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 Otis College of Art and Design?
At $28,500 in median debt, graduates carry 30 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Otis College of Art and Design a good choice for Fine Arts despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Otis College of Art and Design'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 →