At $39,778/yr net price, Academy of Art University graduates earn $39,008/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,008/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $39,778 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $159,112 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,008/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,008/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 31.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 40.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $31,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $37,962/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $37,492/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $40,285/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $44,633/yr |
| $110,001+ | $41,099/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Master | $88,417 | $71,352 |
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | Master | $66,077 | |
| Architecture. | Master | $57,318 | |
| Architecture. | Bachelor | $53,810 | |
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | Bachelor | $48,823 | |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Bachelor | $48,432 | $36,750 |
| Design and Applied Arts. | Master | $45,340 | $93,267 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Master | $44,971 | |
| Music. | Master | $44,942 | |
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | Master | $38,289 |
The Risk Factor
40.5% of students at Academy of Art University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Academy of Art University delivers poor financial returns that put most graduates in a difficult position. With median earnings of just $39,008 ten years after graduation against a net price of nearly $40,000 annually, you're likely to earn less than what you pay for one year of attendance.
Computer software and media applications stands out as the only program worth considering financially, with graduates earning $88,417 annually. However, these students carry $71,352 in debt, creating a heavy burden even with the higher salary. Public relations and advertising programs show mixed results, with earnings ranging from $48,823 to $66,077. Architecture graduates face particularly poor outcomes relative to the debt load required.
The 40.5% graduation rate signals serious completion risk. Your chances of dropping out before earning a degree are nearly six in ten, leaving you with debt but no credential. The 67% retention rate after freshman year suggests many students recognize the poor value proposition early.
This school makes financial sense only if you're pursuing computer software or media applications and can minimize borrowing through family support or scholarships. Students interested in traditional art fields like painting, sculpture, or graphic design should expect very low earnings that won't justify the cost.
San Francisco's high cost of living compounds the problem. Even graduates earning the median salary will struggle to afford rent while paying student loans. You should have a clear backup plan and strong family financial support before enrolling. Most prospective students will find better value at community colleges with strong transfer programs or public universities with established art programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Academy of Art University worth the cost?
Academy of Art University's ROI is generally poor, with graduates earning $39,008 ten years after graduation while paying nearly $40,000 annually. Only computer software and media applications programs show strong earnings potential at $88,417, making most other programs financially risky.
What are the highest paying programs at Academy of Art University?
Computer software and media applications graduates earn $88,417 annually, the only program that clearly justifies the cost. Public relations and advertising programs earn $48,823-$66,077, while architecture graduates make $53,810-$57,318.
How much debt do Academy of Art University graduates typically have?
Graduates typically carry $31,000 in debt with a 40% graduation rate. Given that most programs lead to salaries barely above the annual tuition cost, this debt load creates significant financial strain for most students.
Should I attend Academy of Art University for graphic design or art programs?
The school's core art and design programs show poor financial returns compared to the $39,778 annual cost. Unless you're pursuing computer software applications, you'll likely struggle to repay loans with typical graduate salaries around $39,000.