Design and Applied Arts at Ivy Tech Community College
one of the larger campuses at 54,926 students in Indianapolis, IN.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $26,602 track close to the $28,654 national median for Design and Applied Arts programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
The 31.3x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 38% task exposure — and the 11% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Design and Applied Arts graduates.
At $12,336 in median debt against $26,602 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #47 out of 92 programs, Ivy Tech Community College's financial outcomes for Design and Applied Arts trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $26,602 to $30,514 over five years (15% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 9 registered apprenticeships mapped to Design and Applied Arts, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Design and Applied Arts graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art directors | $111,040 | +4.2% | 50% |
| Architecture teachers, postsecondary | $101,480 | +2.0% | 51% |
| Special effects artists and animators | $99,800 | +1.6% | 48% |
Design and Applied Arts Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Design and Applied Arts careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering arts & design.
Compare & Explore
Design and Applied Arts Overview
Design and Applied Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Ivy Tech Community College
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
Compare how bachelor's degree graduates fare on earnings, ROI, and AI resilience.