Design and Applied Arts at Metropolitan Community College Area
with a mid-sized student body of 7,629 in Omaha, NE.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $29,902/yr, roughly in line with the $28,654 national median for Design and Applied Arts. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 56.6x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Design and Applied Arts programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Design and Applied Arts's career paths, with 38% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 18% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $29,902 far exceeding the $8,831 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #23 of 92 nationally, this is a top-5% Design and Applied Arts program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.
Earnings grow from $29,902 to $36,677 over five years — a 23% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Design and Applied Arts offers 9 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
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
What can you do with a Design and Applied Arts credential from Metropolitan Community College Area? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Design and Applied Arts Overview
Design and Applied Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Metropolitan Community College Area
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.