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Best Value Fine and Studio Arts Colleges in Kansas

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Public universities in Kansas deliver remarkable value for Fine and Studio Arts students, with Washburn University graduates earning $33,993 annually despite a net cost of just $13,046. This impressive return on investment reflects the state's growing creative economy, particularly in Wichita where aircraft design requires skilled visual artists for technical illustration and prototype modeling. The earnings gap between institutions varies dramatically across the state's 19 programs, ranging from $17,033 to $33,993. Kansas State University and University of Kansas maintain graduation rates above 68% while keeping costs under $18,000, making them attractive options for students seeking artistic training without overwhelming debt. The state's aerospace industry, anchored by Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, creates demand for technical artists and designers who can bridge engineering concepts with visual communication.
19
Programs
$13,046 – $29,203
Net Price Range
$26,083
Avg. Program Earnings
49.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Fine and Studio Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,046 $33,993 $9,578 52.6%
2 $13,493 $30,650 $5,633 47.8% 88.0%
3 $13,776 $23,262 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%
4 $15,702 $24,267 $7,356 54.3% 95.7%
5 $17,883 $27,295 $10,942 70.5% 95.1%
6 $17,365 $17,033 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
7 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
8 $25,752 $32,748 61.5% 63.3%
9 $19,045 $35,500 53.8% 51.0%
10 $22,500 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
11 $23,369 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
12 $24,837 $35,162 52.0% 65.9%
13 $28,083 $35,300 28.7% 78.2%
14 $18,889 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
15 $23,335 $33,890 44.1% 81.9%
16 $22,403 $32,200 29.0% 61.1%
17 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
18 $29,203 $31,946 28.7% 66.0%
19 $27,477 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Washburn University the top value for Fine and Studio Arts in Kansas?

Washburn graduates earn $33,993 annually, the highest among all Kansas Fine and Studio Arts programs, while maintaining a net cost of only $13,046. The university's 52.6% graduation rate, combined with its location in Topeka, provides students access to state government design opportunities and regional arts organizations. This combination of strong earnings potential and affordable education creates an strong value proposition for aspiring artists.

How do public and private costs compare for Fine and Studio Arts students?

Public universities in Kansas offer significantly lower costs, with in-state tuition ranging from $5,633 at Fort Hays State to $11,700 at University of Kansas. Private institutions charge between $32,748 and $35,500 for tuition, with net costs after aid ranging from $19,045 to $28,083. The cost difference often exceeds $15,000 annually, making public options particularly attractive for students concerned about debt levels.

What career opportunities exist for Fine Arts graduates in Kansas?

Kansas's aerospace industry requires technical illustrators and designers for aircraft documentation and prototype visualization at companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation. The state's agricultural sector also employs graphic designers for marketing materials and brand development. Additionally, graduates find opportunities in museums, galleries, and cultural organizations throughout Wichita, Topeka, and Lawrence, where the concentration of universities creates arts-friendly communities.

How do graduation rates vary among Kansas Fine Arts programs?

Graduation rates span from 28.7% at Ottawa University-Ottawa to 70.5% at Kansas State University, indicating significant variation in student success across programs. Public universities generally maintain higher completion rates, with University of Kansas at 68.8% and Kansas State at 70.5%. Private institutions show more inconsistency, with Friends University achieving 61.5% while Ottawa University struggles with retention and completion challenges.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.