Design and Applied Arts at Cleveland State University

Cleveland State's Design and Applied Arts program starts graduates at just under $25,000—well below both national and state averages for the field. While earnings nearly double to $40,590 by year four, that initial salary creates a tight financial squeeze: graduates owe more than they'll earn their first year out. For a parent worried about their child making rent while servicing student loans, this is a real concern, especially when stronger Ohio programs like Cincinnati ($52,526) and Miami University ($47,295) offer substantially better starting points.

The small sample size here (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, so don't treat them as gospel. That said, the pattern is clear: this program ranks in just the 12th percentile nationally for earnings, suggesting consistent underperformance rather than a data fluke. The 63% earnings growth is encouraging and shows graduates do find their footing, but those first few years look financially precarious.

If your child is set on design and staying in Ohio, push them to consider the flagship programs first. Cleveland State's 95% admission rate and accessible price point serve an important mission, but the earnings gap suggests this particular program isn't competing well in Ohio's design job market. The eventual $40,000+ salary is livable, but the rough start matters when loan payments begin immediately.