Median Earnings (1yr)
$22,439
33rd percentile
25th percentile in Florida
Median Debt
$27,000
4% above national median

Analysis

Full Sail's Visual and Performing Arts program produces graduates earning significantly less than they could at other Florida schools, with first-year earnings of $22,439 falling well below the state median of $28,878. Among the 14 Florida schools offering this program, Full Sail ranks in just the 25th percentile—meaning three-quarters of comparable programs in the state deliver better earnings outcomes. Even public options like University of Central Florida ($28,878) and University of Florida ($30,629) substantially outperform Full Sail's results.

The debt picture offers some relief, with $27,000 in median borrowing sitting close to national averages and creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.20. However, this moderate debt load can't compensate for the earnings shortfall. Students could potentially graduate with similar debt levels from stronger Florida programs while positioning themselves for nearly $6,000 more in annual income from day one.

For families considering Full Sail's Visual and Performing Arts program, the numbers suggest looking elsewhere within Florida's public university system first. The consistent pattern of higher earnings at state institutions, combined with likely lower tuition costs for in-state students, creates a compelling alternative path that doesn't sacrifice career prospects for the Full Sail brand.

Where Full Sail University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all visual and performing arts bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Full Sail University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Florida

Visual and Performing Arts bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (14 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Full Sail UniversityWinter Park$26,417$22,439$27,0001.20
University of FloridaGainesville$6,381$30,629$86,575$17,9830.59
University of Florida-OnlineGainesville$3,876$30,629$86,575$17,9830.59
University of Central FloridaOrlando$6,368$28,878$41,124$24,2500.84
Stetson UniversityDeLand$55,220$26,913$39,043$27,0001.00
National Median$25,286$26,0831.03

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with visual and performing arts graduates

Art Directors

Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual productions and media, such as print, broadcasting, video, and film. Direct workers engaged in artwork or layout design.

$111,040/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Special Effects Artists and Animators

Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.

$99,800/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in drama, music, and the arts including fine and applied art, such as painting and sculpture, or design and crafts. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Graphic Designers

Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

$61,300/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Craft Artists

Create or reproduce handmade objects for sale and exhibition using a variety of techniques, such as welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft.

$56,260/yrJobs growth:

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators

Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.

$56,260/yrJobs growth:

Artists and Related Workers, All Other

All artists and related workers not listed separately.

$56,260/yrJobs growth:

Photographers

Photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects. May use lighting equipment to enhance a subject's appearance. May use editing software to produce finished images and prints. Includes commercial and industrial photographers, scientific photographers, and photojournalists.

$42,520/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent
About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Full Sail University, approximately 57% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 328 graduates with reported earnings and 388 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.