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Cheapest Visual and Performing Arts Colleges in Washington

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

Washington's most affordable Visual and Performing Arts programs span a remarkable $20,791 cost range, from Central Washington University's $14,715 net price to Whitman College's $35,506. Public universities dominate the budget-friendly options, with Central Washington offering the state's lowest net cost despite a 93.49% acceptance rate. The region's entertainment industry, bolstered by streaming services and gaming companies like Nintendo of America, creates steady demand for creative professionals across the Pacific Northwest.
5
Programs
$14,715 – $35,506
Net Price Range
$26,353
Avg. Program Earnings
66.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,715 $9,192 49.9% 93.5%
2 $18,680 $9,286 65.5% 92.7%
3 $24,820 $38,814 62.1% 90.7%
4 $34,802 $54,285 73.3% 85.2%
5 $35,506 $61,492 81.0% 47.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Central Washington University costs $14,715 annually while Whitman College reaches $35,506, reflecting the gap between public and private institutions. Public schools benefit from state funding that keeps costs lower, with Central Washington's in-state tuition at just $9,192 compared to Whitman's $61,492 sticker price.

How do graduation rates compare across these affordable arts programs?

Graduation rates climb with cost, ranging from Central Washington's 49.90% to Whitman's 81.00%. Western Washington University offers the best value proposition with a 65.50% graduation rate at an $18,680 net price, significantly outperforming Central Washington despite costing only $4,000 more annually.

Does the high acceptance rate at these schools indicate lower academic standards?

Most programs maintain acceptance rates above 85%, with Central Washington at 93.49% and Western Washington at 92.69%. Only Whitman College is selective at 47.70%, reflecting its liberal arts focus and higher graduation rate of 81.00%.

More Visual and Performing Arts, General Rankings

Best Value Visual and Performing Arts, General in Washington Visual and Performing Arts, General Under $20,000 in Washington

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All Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs Best Colleges in Washington Best Visual and Performing Arts, General in Washington

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