Design and Applied Arts at College of DuPage
enrolling 15,185 students in Glen Ellyn, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $31,463 at College of DuPage come in 10% above the national median of $28,654 for Design and Applied Arts programs.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 38.1x 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 0% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $31,463 far exceeding the $11,750 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #28 of 92 Design and Applied Arts programs, College of DuPage scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
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
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 College of DuPage
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.