Design and Applied Arts at Gateway Technical College
with a smaller student body of 4,657 in Kenosha, WI.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $29,734/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 35.5x 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 11% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $14,966 represents roughly 6 months of the $29,734 starting salary — a manageable burden by trade school standards.
At #42 of 92 Design and Applied Arts programs, Gateway Technical College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Five-year earnings of $34,173 are relatively flat compared to the $29,734 starting salary — typical of trades with stable but capped salary bands.
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 Gateway Technical College? 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 Gateway Technical College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.