Fine and Studio Arts at Indiana University-Indianapolis

IU-Indianapolis's Fine Arts program manages to keep debt reasonable while delivering earnings that beat the national average—but within Indiana, it's solidly middle-of-the-pack. Starting at $27,595, graduates earn more than two-thirds of their peers nationally, yet fall below the state median of $28,090. The $22,750 debt load is manageable (less than one year's starting salary), and the 30% earnings jump to $35,749 by year four suggests graduates find their footing in creative careers, even if the initial path isn't always smooth.

The real question is whether families should consider stronger Indiana alternatives. IU-Southeast and IU-Bloomington both produce higher-earning Fine Arts graduates, while University of Southern Indiana and Ball State also edge ahead. Given that many students choose between IU campuses for in-state tuition reasons, the Indianapolis location offers convenience but not a financial advantage over these peers. The 81% acceptance rate and moderate SAT scores (1146) suggest accessibility, which matters for students prioritizing creative development over selective admissions.

For an anxious parent, this comes down to fit versus outcomes. If your child thrives in an urban environment with Indianapolis's arts scene nearby, the debt burden won't crush them and earnings improve significantly with experience. But if maximizing early earnings matters—or if IU-Southeast's Jeffersonville campus or IU-Bloomington's reputation appeals equally—those programs deliver $1,000-$3,500 more annually right out of the gate.