Program Analysis
Graduates earn $26,451/yr, roughly in line with the $25,391 national median for Fine and Studio Arts. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 11.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 6% 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 a 1.1x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.
A #168 ranking among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs places University of Memphis in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The $26,451-to-$41,028 earnings arc over five years reflects a 55% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.