Craft & Folk Art at Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry
14 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
14
Optimistic
14
Base Case
13
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,237/yr (-15% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (23% exposed)
Job Market Medium (11,200 openings/yr)
ROI 6.8x earnings multiple (2.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #2 of 2 Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry programs

Program Analysis

This VCU program, nestled within its highly regarded School of the Arts, offers a deep dive into specialized craft traditions. Your potential career path isn't a traditional corporate ladder; instead, it typically involves building a unique portfolio, pursuing commissions, or establishing your own studio practice. Many graduates thrive by integrating their artistic passion with entrepreneurial skills, leveraging Richmond's vibrant arts community and gallery scene. The varied career paths reflect this, with teaching roles offering more stability while independent artistry demands constant self-promotion and market engagement. Success in this niche field often hinges on developing a distinct artistic voice and a robust network. To truly flourish, focus on cultivating a strong business acumen alongside your artistic mastery.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Craft & Folk Art graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $442K $445K $421K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 6.7x 6.8x 6.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.8x 2.8x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 39% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 14 14 13

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$65,832
Out-of-state: $156,168 (2.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$77,808
-18% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,500
11.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$33,207
56% growth from Year 1

About Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University has a 93% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, one of the larger campuses at 20,797 students in Richmond, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Virginia Commonwealth University →

Top Career Paths

Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Artists and related workers, all other $72,760/yr
Craft artists $38,480/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Craft & Folk Art at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 14/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Craft & Folk Art at Virginia Commonwealth University?
At 14/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Craft & Folk Art programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Virginia Commonwealth University a good choice for Craft & Folk Art despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Virginia Commonwealth University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →