Fine and Studio Arts at University of Wisconsin-River Falls

UW-River Falls graduates with Fine Arts degrees earn less than the typical Wisconsin art school graduate, placing them in the 40th percentile statewide despite ranking nationally in the 74th percentile. A first-year salary of $28,801 trails the state median by about $1,300, and falls well behind the earnings at other Wisconsin schools—UW-Oshkosh graduates, for example, earn nearly $10,000 more. The debt load of $30,084 is manageable relative to earnings, with a 1.04 ratio that's among the lowest 5% nationally, but Wisconsin students are paying slightly more than they would at other in-state programs while earning less.

The 12% earnings growth over four years brings graduates to $32,228, which is respectable movement but doesn't close the gap with stronger programs in the state. For context, this is still a solid outcome compared to arts programs nationwide, where median earnings barely break $25,000. The admission rate above 80% suggests this is an accessible option for students who may not qualify for more selective programs.

The bottom line: If your child is committed to studying studio arts and this is the most affordable option after financial aid, the debt burden won't be crushing. However, if finances allow for other choices within Wisconsin's public system, programs at Oshkosh, Platteville, or Eau Claire deliver significantly better earnings outcomes for similar or lower debt. For an arts degree, every extra dollar of starting salary matters.