Design and Applied Arts at Waukesha County Technical College
a smaller institution with 4,497 students in Pewaukee, WI.
Program Analysis
Waukesha County Technical College Design and Applied Arts graduates command $39,095/yr out of the gate, well above the $28,654 national median. That 36% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
With a 43.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 0% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Design and Applied Arts career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $15,554 in median debt clears fast against $39,095 in annual earnings.
Waukesha County Technical College ranks #15 among 92 Design and Applied Arts programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The 9 apprenticeship pathways connected to Design and Applied Arts reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
Earnings Overview
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
See the full career breakdown for Design and Applied Arts — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Waukesha County Technical College and 91 other schools.
Compare & Explore
Design and Applied Arts Overview
Design and Applied Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Waukesha County Technical College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.