Median Earnings (1yr)
$55,139
5th percentile (10th in CA)
Sample Size
129
Adequate data

Earnings Distribution

How Academy of Art University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Academy of Art University graduates earn $55k, placing them in the 5th percentile of all computer software and media applications masters programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in California

Computer Software and Media Applications masters's programs at peer institutions in California (7 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Academy of Art University$55,139$83,281
University of Southern California$134,800
National Median$98,177

Other Computer Software and Media Applications Programs in California

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Southern California
Los Angeles
$68,237$134,800

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Academy of Art University, approximately 42% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.