Design and Applied Arts at Fashion Institute of Technology

FIT's Design and Applied Arts associate's degree shows why timing matters in creative fields. That first-year figure of $14,361 likely reflects internships or part-time creative work during the portfolio-building phase, but earnings jump to $39,369 by year four—above both the national and state medians. Among New York programs, only The New School's pricier option delivers higher earnings, and FIT does it with just $12,000 in debt.

The catch is that first year. Even with low debt, an 0.84 debt-to-earnings ratio means recent graduates face a challenging period before their careers gain traction. Students need financial runway—either parental support or savings—to bridge those early months. The 174% earnings growth suggests the degree eventually pays off, but parents should expect to help with living expenses initially.

For families who can manage short-term support, FIT offers a legitimate path into New York's design economy at half the debt load of typical art programs. The institution's fashion industry connections and reasonable admission rate (58%) make this accessible. Just plan for that first year to be lean while your child builds their professional network and portfolio.