Median Earnings (1yr)
$22,439
33rd percentile (25th in FL)
Median Debt
$27,000
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
1.20
Elevated
Sample Size
328
Adequate data

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

Full Sail UniversityOther visual and performing arts programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Full Sail University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Full Sail University graduates earn $22k, placing them in the 33th percentile of all visual and performing arts bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Florida

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

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Full Sail University$22,439—$27,0001.20
University of Florida$30,629$86,575$17,9830.59
University of Florida-Online$30,629$86,575$17,9830.59
University of Central Florida$28,878$41,124$24,2500.84
Stetson University$26,913$39,043$27,0001.00
National Median$25,286—$26,0831.03

Other Visual and Performing Arts Programs in Florida

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Florida
Gainesville
$6,381$30,629$17,983
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville
$3,876$30,629$17,983
University of Central Florida
Orlando
$6,368$28,878$24,250
Stetson University
DeLand
$55,220$26,913$27,000

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.