Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $21,288/yr fall 16% below the $25,391 national median for Fine and Studio Arts. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
With a 15.2x 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 $15,375 against $21,288/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #196 ranking among 385 Fine and Studio Arts programs places California State University-Stanislaus in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $21,288-to-$37,911 earnings arc over five years reflects a 78% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.