Fine and Studio Arts at Shepherd University

Shepherdstown, WV · Public · Bachelor's Degree
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
31
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,059/yr (30% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.1x earnings multiple (5.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #70 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Fine and Studio Arts graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $448K $452K $428K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.0x 13.1x 12.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.9x 5.9x 5.6x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 37 36 31

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$34,568
Out-of-state: $76,328 (5.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$49,564
-43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,500
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$37,624
14% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $33,059 per year, Fine and Studio Arts graduates from Shepherd University significantly outpace the $25,391 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

With a 13.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Fine and Studio Arts career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,500 against $33,059/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Shepherd University ranks #70 among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $33,059 to $37,624 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Shepherd University

With 96% of applicants admitted, Shepherd University prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 2,375 students in Shepherdstown, WV.

See all programs and financial aid at Shepherd 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 and Studio Arts at Other Schools

Other Majors at Shepherd University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 36/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Fine and Studio Arts at Shepherd University?
At 36/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Fine and Studio Arts programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Shepherd University one of the best schools for Fine and Studio Arts?
Among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs, Shepherd University's #70 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →