Visual and Performing Arts at University of California-San Diego
Bachelor's Degree
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Visual and Performing Arts bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (20 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-San Diego | — | $38,954 | $15,000 | — |
| Academy of Art University | $28,494 | — | $31,000 | 1.09 |
| California State University-San Marcos | $27,741 | $32,802 | $18,750 | 0.68 |
| Otis College of Art and Design | $21,558 | $61,607 | $27,000 | 1.25 |
| National Median | $25,286 | — | $26,083 | 1.03 |
Other Visual and Performing Arts Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academy of Art University San Francisco | $28,024 | $28,494 | $31,000 |
| California State University-San Marcos San Marcos | $7,739 | $27,741 | $18,750 |
| Otis College of Art and Design Los Angeles | $55,513 | $21,558 | $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 University of California-San Diego, approximately 33% 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.