Fine Arts at Salem State University
Salem, MA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
32
Optimistic
31
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings
$26,180/yr (3% vs median)
AI Risk
Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI
10.4x earnings multiple (6.6x 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 | $499K | $498K | $466K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 10.4x | 10.4x | 9.7x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 6.6x | 6.6x | 6.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 41% | 37% | 31% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 32 | 31 | 28 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$47,912
Out-of-state: $75,844 (6.6x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
12.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$44,271
69% growth from Year 1
About Salem State University
With 96% of applicants admitted, Salem State University prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 4,286 students in Salem, MA.
See all programs and financial aid at Salem 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 Salem 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
How does Salem State University's Fine Arts program score?
This program scores 31/100 — on the lower end for Fine Arts. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Salem State University Fine Arts graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.0x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →