Design and Applied Arts at Endicott College

Endicott College's design program defies common assumptions about art degrees. While typical design programs struggle to break $35,000 in first-year earnings, Endicott graduates start at $39,271 and climb to $58,604 by year four—a 49% jump that suggests strong industry connections and alumni networks. More impressive: this program ranks in the 80th percentile among Massachusetts design programs, outperforming much larger schools and matching outcomes you'd typically see at far more selective institutions.

The financial setup is particularly parent-friendly. At $27,000 in median debt (below the national average) and a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69, graduates can realistically manage their loans even during those early-career years. Compare this to the state median of $31,037 for design grads, and you're looking at a $7,600 first-year earnings advantage that compounds over time. That earnings trajectory matters—by year four, graduates are approaching the starting salaries of tech-focused design programs.

The real value here isn't competing with Northeastern's elite design outcomes; it's delivering top-quartile results at a school with a 72% admission rate. If your child is serious about design but isn't getting into highly selective programs, Endicott offers a clear path to solid middle-class earnings without crushing debt. Just understand you're paying a moderate premium upfront for outcomes that justify the investment within the first few years of work.