At $23,764/yr net price, Massachusetts College of Art and Design graduates earn $43,582/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,582/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,764 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $95,056 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,582/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,582/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,755 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,993/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,162/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,708/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $27,239/yr |
| $110,001+ | $31,058/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Applied Arts. | Certificate | $42,682 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $41,565 | |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Master | $38,721 | $41,000 |
| Design and Applied Arts. | Bachelor | $34,298 | $25,537 |
| Architecture. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Master | $33,993 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $32,563 | $26,250 |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Bachelor | $26,353 | $24,000 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Bachelor | $25,932 | $25,513 |
The Risk Factor
69.2% of students at Massachusetts College of Art and Design graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 31% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Massachusetts College of Art and Design offers poor return on investment, with graduates earning a median of $43,582 ten years after graduation while carrying typical debt of $25,755. The financial picture worsens when you consider that 31% of students fail to graduate, making this a risky investment for many.
The earnings data reveals a troubling pattern across MassArt's programs. Fine arts majors face the worst financial outcomes, earning just $38,721 annually while accumulating $41,000 in debt. Even the highest-paying programs in design and applied arts barely crack $42,000, leaving graduates with limited financial mobility in Boston's expensive market. Architecture majors fare particularly poorly at $33,993, well below typical architecture salaries.
You should only consider MassArt if you plan to pursue teaching, as education majors earn $41,565 with presumably better job security. The school works best for Massachusetts residents who can access in-state tuition rates, though even then the return remains weak. Avoid this school if you need substantial income to repay loans or support family.
MassArt's 28% financial aid rate is unusually low for a public institution, meaning most students pay close to full price. The school offers limited merit scholarships, so you cannot count on significant aid to improve the financial equation. Your best strategy involves minimizing debt through community college transfers or working while enrolled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Massachusetts College of Art and Design worth the cost?
MassArt graduates earn $43,582 ten years after enrollment, which is below average for college graduates. With a net price of $23,764 annually and typical debt of $25,755, the return on investment is modest but manageable for art school standards.
What programs at Massachusetts College of Art and Design have the best job prospects?
Design and Applied Arts programs offer the strongest earning potential at $42,682, followed by Teacher Education at $41,565. Fine Arts graduates typically earn less at $38,721, while Architecture majors start around $33,993.
How much debt do Massachusetts College of Art and Design graduates have?
The median debt for MassArt graduates is $25,755, which is reasonable given the school's focus on arts education. This debt level is manageable compared to many private art schools, though earnings potential remains limited in creative fields.
Does Massachusetts College of Art and Design have good financial aid?
MassArt's net price of $23,764 reflects decent financial aid for a specialized art school. However, with relatively low post-graduation earnings, students should carefully consider their program choice and career goals before borrowing.