Cheapest Visual and Performing Arts Colleges in Wisconsin

Public universities dominate Wisconsin's most affordable Visual and Performing Arts programs, with University of Wisconsin-Parkside leading at just $10,044 net cost. The state's seven programs range from $10,044 to $24,813, creating a $14,769 gap between the cheapest and most expensive options. Wisconsin's strong creative economy, anchored by companies like Epic Systems that value design thinking and multimedia expertise, provides graduates with opportunities beyond traditional arts venues in manufacturing and healthcare sectors.

Programs

$10,044 – $24,813

Net Price Range

$32,320

Avg. Program Earnings

56.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Wisconsin-Parkside Kenosha, Wisconsin	$10,044	$7,855	39.8%	72.8%
2	University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Whitewater, Wisconsin	$14,785	$8,250	64.3%	82.4%
3	University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Milwaukee, Wisconsin	$16,177	$10,020	51.2%	86.3%
4	University of Wisconsin-Stout Menomonie, Wisconsin	$17,365	$10,142	52.5%	86.3%
5	Rasmussen University-Wisconsin Green Bay, Wisconsin	$18,847	$11,982	62.5%
6	Beloit College Beloit, Wisconsin	$21,924	$58,554	67.2%	65.9%
7	Carthage College Kenosha, Wisconsin	$24,813	$36,500	60.5%	81.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between public and private arts programs in Wisconsin?

Private colleges like Carthage charge $24,813 net cost compared to UW-Parkside's $10,044, creating a $14,769 gap. Public universities benefit from state funding and the Wisconsin Grant program, while private institutions rely on higher tuition to fund smaller class sizes and specialized facilities.

How do graduation rates compare across Wisconsin's most affordable arts programs?

Beloit College leads with a 67.2% graduation rate despite being the second most expensive option at $21,924. Among the cheaper public options, UW-Whitewater achieves 64.3% while UW-Parkside graduates just 39.8% of students.

Where do Visual and Performing Arts graduates find the highest earnings in Wisconsin?

UW-Milwaukee graduates earn $38,289 annually, significantly higher than UW-Whitewater's $28,443. The $9,846 earnings difference reflects Milwaukee's larger creative market and proximity to advertising agencies, media companies, and corporate design departments.

More Visual and Performing Arts, General 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.