Design and Applied Arts at Southern Adventist University

A Design and Applied Arts bachelor's degree in Tennessee typically produces first-year earnings around $35,000, based on comparable programs across the state. Southern Adventist University's estimated outcomes align with this state median, though it's worth noting that several Tennessee public universities—including UT-Chattanooga and Middle Tennessee State—report graduates earning $4,000 to $7,000 more annually. With an estimated $27,000 in debt, graduates would face monthly loan payments of roughly $300 on a standard plan, consuming about a quarter of take-home pay in the first year.

The 0.77 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, particularly if earnings grow in years two and three as graduates gain professional experience and build portfolios. However, design fields are notoriously variable—earnings depend heavily on specialization (graphic design versus UX design, for instance), location, and whether graduates freelance or work in-house. The program's middle-of-the-pack position among Tennessee schools means your child would likely need to develop strong skills and connections to compete for higher-paying positions.

Given the limited hard data specific to Southern Adventist's program, visit campus and ask direct questions: Where do recent graduates work? What's the job placement rate within six months? How much do faculty connections matter in securing internships? The estimated figures suggest reasonable outcomes for a design degree, but you'll want clearer evidence that this particular program delivers career preparation worth the investment.