Graphic Communications at Cleveland Institute of Art

That first-year earnings figure of $19,409 is alarmingly low—barely above minimum wage—and creates immediate financial stress with $27,000 in debt. While the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, Cleveland Institute of Art's graphic communications program trails the national median by $6,000 and ranks in just the 22nd percentile nationally. The program does slightly better within Ohio, hitting the 40th percentile, but that's partly because Ohio's graphic communications programs generally underperform (the state median is $20,110 versus $25,330 nationally). The debt load itself is typical for the field, but owing 1.4 times your first-year salary makes even standard debt feel crushing when you're earning under $20,000.

The real concern is opportunity cost. Bowling Green State's graphic communications graduates earn nearly double—$38,489—with similar debt loads, proving that substantially better outcomes exist even within Ohio's public universities. For an art-focused private institution charging premium tuition, these returns don't justify the investment unless your child has already secured a clear job pathway or family support can minimize borrowing.

If Cleveland Institute of Art is the target, insist on minimizing debt through scholarships and financial aid. At these earnings levels, even $27,000 becomes difficult to manage. Consider whether a graphic design program at a state university or starting with community college courses makes more financial sense while your child builds their portfolio.