Design and Applied Arts at Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Moorhead's Design and Applied Arts program punches above its weight nationally, placing graduates in the 73rd percentile for earnings—well ahead of the typical design school. That first-year salary of $38,587 beats the national median by about $5,000, and by year four, graduates are earning $44,640, showing healthy 16% growth in a field where stagnant earnings are common.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $27,000, putting students in the 25th percentile nationally (meaning lower debt than most programs). With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70, graduates owe less than a year's salary, which is manageable territory. Within Minnesota, this program sits in the middle of the pack—behind the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and a few other strong options, but competitive with many state schools and above the state median.

The caveat here is significant: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes can swing these numbers substantially. One exceptionally high or low earner changes the picture more than it would at a larger program. Still, the combination of below-average debt with above-average earnings suggests Moorhead's design program delivers solid value, particularly for students looking to stay in-state at a reasonable price point. Just recognize you're looking at a small program where your mileage may genuinely vary.