Design and Applied Arts

Master's degree · Academy of Art University · San Francisco, CA

CIP 50.04

$38,358Median earnings 1 year after graduating

$57,636Median earnings 4 years after

$58,596Median earnings 5 years after

$93,267Median federal debt

51Graduates per year

How this program compares

Graduates of the master's degree program in Design and Applied Arts at Academy of Art University earn a median of $38,358 one year after completing the program. Nationally, master's degree graduates in this field earn a median of $70,073 four years after graduating (middle half: $44,125–$102,485). Median debt is $93,267, about 243% of first-year earnings – more than a full year of pay.

Other programs at Academy of Art University

Computer Software and Media ApplicationsMaster's degree$55,139
Fine and Studio ArtsMaster's degree$50,953
Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/TechniciansBachelor's degree$48,978
Computer Software and Media ApplicationsBachelor's degree$45,387
Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/TechniciansMaster's degree$44,643
Film/Video and Photographic ArtsMaster's degree$41,911
Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing OperationsMaster's degree$37,909
Drama/Theatre Arts and StagecraftMaster's degree$36,635
Computer Software and Media ApplicationsAssociate's degree$30,273
Film/Video and Photographic ArtsAssociate's degree$30,178
Visual and Performing Arts, GeneralBachelor's degree$28,494
Apparel and TextilesBachelor's degree$27,630
Graphic CommunicationsBachelor's degree$27,481
Design and Applied ArtsAssociate's degree$26,478
Radio, Television, and Digital CommunicationBachelor's degree$25,425
Film/Video and Photographic ArtsBachelor's degree$23,354
Design and Applied ArtsBachelor's degree$20,829
Drama/Theatre Arts and StagecraftBachelor's degree$20,798
Communication and Media StudiesBachelor's degree$40,098
Visual and Performing Arts, GeneralMaster's degree$51,874

Frequently asked questions

How much do Design and Applied Arts graduates from Academy of Art University make?

The median salary is $38,358 one year after graduation and $58,596 after five years.

How much student debt do graduates have?

Graduates who borrowed federal loans owe a median of $93,267.

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, June 2026 release (Field of Study data). Earnings are for graduates who received federal financial aid.