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Cheapest Design and Applied Arts Colleges in Alabama

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Troy University stands out among Alabama's Design and Applied Arts programs with a net price of just $13,869, nearly $6,000 less than the next closest option. This dramatic cost difference creates an unusual spread across six schools, ranging up to Samford University at $30,795. Alabama's growing aerospace sector, including major players like Airbus and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, provides unique opportunities for design graduates to work on modern aviation and space technology projects.
6
Programs
$13,869 – $30,795
Net Price Range
$37,004
Avg. Program Earnings
65.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

6 Design and Applied Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,869 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
2 $19,514 $23,270 56.1% 72.6%
3 $19,603 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
4 $22,150 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
5 $23,897 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
6 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive $17,000 price gap between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Troy University's public status allows it to offer the lowest net price at $13,869, while private institutions like Samford University reach $30,795. The three public schools all maintain net prices under $24,000, creating a clear divide from private options that start around $19,500.

How do graduation rates compare across different price points?

Higher-priced programs generally show better completion rates, with Samford University leading at 79.90% despite its $30,795 cost. Auburn University matches this performance at 79.20% while maintaining a more moderate $23,897 net price, offering strong value for completion outcomes.

Does Alabama's aerospace industry create specific opportunities for design graduates?

The state's aerospace manufacturing presence, including Airbus and NASA facilities, creates demand for industrial designers, user experience specialists, and technical illustrators. Auburn graduates earn $39,271 annually, reflecting the state's strong engineering and manufacturing job market that values design expertise.

More Design and Applied Arts Rankings

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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.