Fine and Studio Arts at Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay's Fine and Studio Arts program starts graduates at a concerning $19,157—well below both Tennessee's median ($22,714) and the national average ($24,742), ranking in just the 13th percentile nationally. That first-year figure translates to about $9.25 per hour for full-time work, making it difficult to manage even modest student debt. The good news is significant earnings growth: by year four, graduates reach $32,661, a 71% jump that puts them ahead of typical fine arts programs. However, this trajectory still places them at the 25th percentile among Tennessee programs, notably behind options like Middle Tennessee State ($29,084) or Lee University ($26,598).

The $24,750 debt burden isn't extreme for art programs—it's actually slightly below state and national medians—but paired with that low starting salary, it creates real financial pressure in those crucial first years. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests these numbers are reasonably reliable, though career outcomes in fine arts always vary widely based on individual talent and entrepreneurial drive.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your child can weather those difficult early years. If they have financial support or a plan for supplemental income while building their practice, the strong mid-career trajectory shows promise. But if they need to service loans immediately after graduation, the stronger Tennessee programs offer more breathing room from day one.