Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $22,628 track close to the $25,391 national median for Fine and Studio Arts programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 15.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 7% 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 $14,990 against $22,628/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
California State University-Chico ranks #88 among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The $22,628-to-$44,754 earnings arc over five years reflects a 98% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.