Fine and Studio Arts at West Virginia University

West Virginia University's Fine and Studio Arts program starts graduates at $23,043—below both the national median ($24,742) and the West Virginia median ($24,475)—but here's the unexpected turn: earnings jump 47% by year four to nearly $34,000. That's a steeper climb than most arts programs show, suggesting graduates find better opportunities as they build portfolios and professional networks, though they're starting from a lower base than peers at schools like Shepherd University ($33,059 first-year earnings).

The debt load of $24,121 is actually slightly below the national median for arts programs, which matters when first-year earnings barely cover living expenses. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.05 means graduates owe roughly their entire first year's salary—manageable compared to many arts programs, but tight enough that your student would likely need family support or supplemental income early on. Among West Virginia's arts programs, this sits right at the state median for debt and ranks 40th percentile for earnings.

The real question is whether your child can handle lean early years for a career they're passionate about. If they're serious about studio practice and willing to cobble together income streams initially, the strong earnings growth suggests the degree does lead somewhere. But if they need immediate financial independence, they should know they'll be earning below West Virginia's already-modest living wage for the first few years post-graduation.