Art Center College of Design: Is It Worth It?
Pasadena, California · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
2.7
Net Price/Year
$48,661
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$71,958
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$31,000
at graduation
Is Art Center College of Design Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $71,958 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $48,661 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $194,644.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 2.7 years.
The median graduate leaves with $31,000 in debt, which represents about 43%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
74.5%
Avg SAT
N/A
ACT Midpoint
N/A
Enrollment
2,017
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
80.8%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
85.9%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
71000.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$54,170
Out-of-State Tuition
$54,170
Avg Net Price
$48,661
After grants/scholarships
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Art Center College of Design worth the money?
Based on federal data, Art Center College of Design graduates earn a median of $71,958 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $31,000 at graduation. The ROI score is 2.7.
What do Art Center College of Design graduates earn?
The median earnings for Art Center College of Design graduates is $53,562 six years after enrollment and $71,958 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Art Center College of Design?
The acceptance rate at Art Center College of Design is 74.5%.
How much debt do Art Center College of Design graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Art Center College of Design students is $31,000.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.