Fine Arts at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Fine and Studio Arts
41 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
42
Optimistic
41
Base Case
36
Pessimistic
Earnings $34,582/yr (36% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (36% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (118,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.1x earnings multiple (6.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #22 of 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

The earning trends you see for UW-Eau Claire’s Fine and Studio Arts program often reflect a strong emphasis on applied design and digital media skills, rather than solely traditional fine art. Many graduates find success in creative roles within regional advertising agencies, marketing departments for corporations, or as in-house designers for local and Twin Cities-based businesses in industries like health, manufacturing, and tech. The program likely cultivates practical, marketable skills in areas like graphic design, illustration, and digital content creation, which are highly valued by employers looking to differentiate their brands. This outcome also suggests a robust career services network or faculty connections that help students translate their artistic talents into commercial opportunities. You'll often find graduates excelling in visual communication, user experience (UX) design, or even animation, leveraging the strong demand for digital creatives in the Upper Midwest. As you consider this path, focus on building a versatile portfolio that showcases your ability to solve real-world design challenges, beyond just exhibiting fine art.

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 $486K $486K $456K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.1x 13.1x 12.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.6x 6.6x 6.2x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 42 41 36

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$37,108
Out-of-state: $74,064 (6.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,792
-83% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,437
8.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,142
31% growth from Year 1

About University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

With 76% of applicants admitted, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire prioritizes broad access, serving 8,995 students in Eau Claire, WI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire →

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

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Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 41/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Fine Arts at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire?
At 41/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Fine Arts programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →