Design and Applied Arts at Seattle University

Based on comparable programs in Washington, Seattle University's Design and Applied Arts degree suggests an estimated first-year salary of $39,248—right at the state median but notably below top performers like UW-Seattle ($63,449) and even nearby Bellevue College ($45,947). The clearer picture comes from actual reported data: four years out, graduates earn a median of $53,951, showing significant growth but still trailing Washington's leading design programs by $10,000 or more.

The debt burden of $23,792 is actually lighter than both state and national medians for design programs, which typically saddle graduates with over $26,000. Combined with that estimated first-year salary, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61—manageable in the design world where early-career earnings tend to be modest across the board. The four-year earnings figure confirms graduates do see meaningful salary progression, though the pace and ceiling appear more limited than what stronger regional competitors deliver.

For families investing in a Seattle University education at $23,792 in debt, the question becomes whether the mid-tier outcomes justify the private school experience. The program sits squarely in the middle of Washington's design offerings—neither a standout nor a cautionary tale. If your child has acceptance letters from UW or even Bellevue College, those appear to offer better return on investment based on peer program data. If Seattle U is the target for fit or other factors, the debt load is reasonable, but expect a longer runway to competitive design salaries.