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Maryland's most affordable Fine and Studio Arts program costs just $6,007 annually at Coppin State University, while the highest reaches $38,429. This dramatic cost spread reflects the state's mix of historically black public universities and selective private colleges. Art graduates from University of Maryland-College Park earn $36,048 yearly, more than double the $15,552 starting salary at Morgan State University. The Baltimore-Washington corridor provides unique opportunities for artists, with the Smithsonian Institution, Kennedy Center, and numerous federal agencies regularly commissioning creative work. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with seven of the ten cheapest programs offered by state schools. Johns Hopkins University breaks this pattern as the only private institution in the top half for affordability at $18,161 net cost.
18
Programs
$6,007 – $38,429
Net Price Range
$23,931
Avg. Program Earnings
62.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Fine and Studio Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,007 $7,001 25.6% 45.0%
2 $15,015 $8,118 41.6% 85.4%
3 $15,323 $9,998 52.1% 87.9%
4 $15,590 $11,505 88.6% 44.6%
5 $16,456 $10,638 67.4% 91.1%
6 $16,791 $11,306 67.6% 78.6%
7 $18,161 $63,340 94.6% 7.3%
8 $18,328 $12,952 70.6% 80.6%
9 $18,362 $15,236 68.0% 77.3%
10 $19,335 $8,999 38.1% 86.5%
11 $20,923 $49,647 63.8% 82.1%
12 $23,707 $45,870 55.3% 77.9%
13 $23,774 $51,250 60.0% 80.2%
14 $24,536 $41,910 51.9% 69.6%
15 $24,987 $47,240 58.0% 79.6%
16 $29,095 $54,356 74.1% 74.7%
17 $29,633 $55,480 80.5% 83.5%
18 $38,429 $55,150 71.3% 79.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Coppin State University's Fine and Studio Arts program so affordable?

Coppin State offers the lowest net cost at $6,007 annually, with in-state tuition of just $7,001. The Baltimore-based historically black public university maintains small class sizes and focuses on community engagement. However, the graduation rate stands at 25.60% with an acceptance rate of 44.95%, indicating selective admissions despite the low cost.

How do earnings compare between Maryland's public and private art programs?

University of Maryland-College Park graduates earn the highest salaries at $36,048, nearly $10,000 more than Towson University's $33,993. Private school graduates show mixed results, with McDaniel College producing $25,967 earners while Hood College graduates start at $19,455. The data suggests flagship public universities often provide better career outcomes than smaller private institutions.

Is Johns Hopkins University worth the higher cost for art students?

Johns Hopkins charges $63,340 in sticker price but offers substantial aid, bringing net costs down to $18,161. The university boasts a 94.60% graduation rate, the highest among all Maryland programs. With only a 7.25% acceptance rate, admission remains extremely competitive, but the academic reputation opens doors in nearby Washington D.C.'s cultural sector.

Where do Fine and Studio Arts graduates find work in Maryland?

The Baltimore-Washington region offers unique opportunities through federal agencies, museums, and cultural institutions. Graduates often work for the Smithsonian's multiple museums, the Kennedy Center, and various government departments requiring creative services. Baltimore's growing arts district and proximity to major East Coast cities provide additional gallery, design, and freelance opportunities for emerging artists.

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