Design and Applied Arts at Austin Community College District
serving a student body of 25,969 in Austin, TX.
Program Analysis
At $40,289 per year, Design and Applied Arts graduates from Austin Community College District significantly outpace the $28,654 national average for this trade, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.
The 86.5x 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 5% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Design and Applied Arts graduates.
The median debt load of $19,939 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #4 out of 92 programs, Austin Community College District's Design and Applied Arts program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $40,289 to $43,956 over five years (9% 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 Austin Community College District
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.