Fine Arts at Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, TX · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
28 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
29
Optimistic
28
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $17,507/yr (-31% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.5x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #241 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs

Program Analysis

The earnings profile for Fine and Studio Arts graduates from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi reflects a particular dynamic common in regional markets. While the program cultivates essential artistic skills, the local Corpus Christi economy might offer different opportunities compared to major art centers. You'll likely find strong demand for independent artists serving the regional community, local galleries, or commercial art for tourism and small businesses. Securing roles like art director or special effects artist, often found in larger creative industries, typically requires proactive networking and potentially relocating to major metropolitan hubs. To maximize your earning potential, focus on building an entrepreneurial mindset and a robust portfolio that showcases versatility, actively seeking internships, and exploring opportunities beyond the immediate South Texas region early in your career.

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 $528K $525K $488K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.6x 13.5x 12.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.3x 6.2x 5.8x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 29 28 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,992
Out-of-state: $84,132 (6.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$60,548
-55% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,125
18.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,640
144% growth from Year 1

About Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi

With 89% of applicants admitted, Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi prioritizes broad access, serving 7,804 students in Corpus Christi, TX.

See all programs and financial aid at Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi →

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 Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi

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 Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi?
A score of 28/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Fine Arts. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Is Fine Arts at Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi worth the student debt?
Median debt of $27,125 against $17,507/yr starting salary means roughly 1.5 years of earnings go to repayment. That's above average — financial aid and loan terms matter here.
Can you still earn well with Fine Arts from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →