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Pennsylvania College of Art and Design

Private nonprofit Lancaster, PA · Urban · Mid-Atlantic · 87% data reported · Agent Insights
66%
Graduation Rate
$33,301
Earnings (10yr)
$30,083
Net Price
99%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Pennsylvania College of Art and Design is a great fit for students passionate about the visual and performing arts. With an acceptance rate of 99%, it welcomes a diverse range of talent, allowing aspiring artists to hone their skills in programs like illustration, graphic design, and photography. The intimate enrollment of around 400 students fosters a close-knit community where creativity thrives, and students can receive personalized attention from faculty.

After graduation, students can expect to earn about $33,301 after ten years, which provides a solid foundation for building a career in the arts. While the graduation rate stands at 66%, this reflects the challenges many creative students face as they navigate their educational paths. It's important to consider affordability; with nearly half of the students receiving Pell Grants, many find financial support to help them pursue their degrees without overwhelming debt.

When we look at the numbers, the net price after aid is around $30,083, with a median debt of $27,000. This means most graduates are entering the workforce with a manageable debt load, especially compared to potential earnings in their field. Students who thrive here tend to be self-motivated and dedicated to their craft, ready to embrace the unique opportunities that come with a focused education in the arts.

How Pennsylvania Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation66%Earnings 10yr$33KNet Price$30KRetention85%Median Debt$27KPell Grant Rate47%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$25K$0-30K$24K$30-48K$27K$48-75K$38K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$32,150
In-State Tuition
$32,150
Out-of-State
$30,083
Avg Net Price
$27,000
Median Debt
47%
Pell Grant Rate
69%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$24,547
Family Income $0–$30K
$24,115
Family Income $30K–$48K
$26,576
Family Income $48K–$75K
$37,851
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$23,638
6 Years After Entry
$28,843
8 Years
$33,301
10 Years
0.81x
Debt-to-Earnings
38%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$23,638 6yr $28,843 8yr $33,301 10yr

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 99%
Retention Rate 85%
Full-Time Faculty 24%
Faculty Salary (mo) $4,574
Diversity Index 0.59

Top Programs

Visual & Performing Arts 100%

Quick Facts

Setting Urban
Region Mid-Atlantic
Accreditor National Association of Schools of Arts and Design
Predominant Degree Bachelor's

Student Body

Female
69%
White
62%
Hispanic
3%
Black
15%
Asian
5%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Our methodology →