Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 53.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.0%
- Retention Rate
- 50.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $34,324
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 6:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 40.1%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Applied Arts. | Bachelor | $23,719 | $30,125 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Bachelor | $19,866 |
Outcomes Overview
Graduates earn a median of $34,324 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 79%. Monthly loan payments of $286 consume about 10% of typical graduate income. The 91.4% employment rate shows strong job placement in commercial art fields like advertising, publishing, and digital media. However, the 40% loan repayment rate indicates many graduates struggle financially. Starting salaries of $18,747 reflect the reality of entry-level creative positions in competitive markets. While the small class sizes and Chicago location provide networking opportunities in the design industry, the high debt burden relative to earning potential makes this a weak return on investment for most students.