Rankings / Bachelors

Best Bachelor's in Visual

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$73,200

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

82%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,923

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right school for a bachelor's degree in Visual and Performing Arts can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s crucial to understand which programs lead to the best outcomes after graduation. For many students, a key figure to consider is the average earnings for graduates, which in this category stands at $78,678.

What truly sets the top schools apart in this ranking is their strong outcomes, including graduation rates and post-college earnings, as well as their ability to promote upward mobility. The schools listed below have demonstrated success in preparing students for a fulfilling career in the arts, balancing factors like debt and completion rates. A close look at these metrics reveals which programs not only educate but also empower their graduates.

For instance, The Cooper Union boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 81% and offers a net price of $13,269, making it an attractive option for many students. In contrast, Brown University has a higher average earning of $93,487 but comes with a significantly higher net price of $25,184. This illustrates the trade-offs students face between cost and potential financial return post-graduation.

Key Findings

Brown University graduates earn an average of $93,487, the highest in this list.

The Cooper Union has a net price of $13,269, making it more affordable than many peers.

Williams College boasts a graduation rate of 95%, reflecting strong program completion.

The average graduation rate among these top schools is 86%, indicating a solid support system.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $73,200

Avg. graduation rate 82%

Avg. net price $23,923

Avg. median debt $18,099

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs ranked by outcomes, mobility, and program concentration in Visual & Performing Arts

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY

Graduation81%

Earnings$83,847

Net Price$13,269

View full profile →

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

View full profile →

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Graduation95%

Earnings$88,665

Net Price$17,716

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at The Cooper Union attracts creative thinkers who are eager to push the boundaries of art and design. Students immerse themselves in a collaborative environment, honing their skills while engaging with diverse artistic perspectives. This program is ideal for those who want to engage deeply with their artistic practice and pursue innovative solutions to visual challenges.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

At Johns Hopkins University, the Visual bachelor's program is designed for students who are passionate about the intersection of art and science. Here, students explore visual expression through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes creativity and critical thinking. This path suits those looking to blend their artistic talents with analytical skills, preparing them for impactful careers in a wide range of fields.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College's Visual bachelor's program is ideal for students who thrive in a close-knit community focused on artistic exploration. Here, students can delve into various forms of visual art, cultivating their unique voices while collaborating with peers. The program emphasizes personal growth and critical engagement, making it perfect for those looking to develop their artistic identities in a supportive environment.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University's Visual bachelor's program is tailored for students who want to fuse creativity with technical skill in a vibrant academic setting. Here, students engage in a comprehensive exploration of visual art, pushing their boundaries while benefiting from a collaborative community. This program suits those who are eager to experiment and innovate in their artistic practices, preparing them for diverse career paths in the arts and beyond.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University's Visual bachelor's program is designed for students eager to explore the complexities of visual culture and artistic practice. Here, students immerse themselves in a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes both creative expression and conceptual understanding. The collaborative environment fosters strong connections among peers, leading to innovative projects that reflect diverse perspectives and experiences.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Winston Salem, NC · 945 students · Public

At the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, the Visual bachelor's program appeals to students with a strong passion for the arts and a desire to hone their craft in a focused, creative setting. This program nurtures artistic talent while encouraging students to explore various forms of visual expression, from painting to digital media. Students will collaborate closely with peers and faculty, pushing each other to innovate and grow as artists.

30% accepted 78% graduate $38,357 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at Brown University is ideal for creative thinkers who want to explore the intersection of art and technology. Students here engage in a hands-on approach, working through projects that challenge traditional boundaries and push personal expression in innovative ways. This environment fosters a culture of collaboration and experimentation, encouraging students to develop a unique visual language that resonates with contemporary issues.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

At Vanderbilt University, the Visual bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about creativity and storytelling through visual mediums. The program emphasizes critical thinking and artistic skills, preparing students for various careers in art, design, and media. By fostering a supportive community, students are encouraged to develop their personal voices while engaging with the broader cultural landscape.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, OK · 1,514 students · Private nonprofit

For students at Oklahoma City University, pursuing a Visual bachelor's degree means diving into a creative curriculum that emphasizes personal expression and professional development. This program is tailored for those who wish to gain foundational skills in visual arts while collaborating with peers and faculty in a nurturing environment that encourages artistic growth.

77% accepted 65% graduate $54,655 earnings

Oklahoma's full profile

#10

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at Wellesley College is designed for students who are passionate about the arts and committed to exploring their creative potential. Focused on developing a strong foundation in visual literacy, students engage in hands-on projects and critical discussions that encourage innovative thinking and personal expression. This program attracts those who thrive in a collaborative environment, where artistic exploration is intertwined with a liberal arts education.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#11

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

At Carnegie Mellon University, the Visual bachelor's program is tailored for creative thinkers ready to tackle complex visual challenges. The program emphasizes both technical skill and conceptual development, making it ideal for those eager to blend creativity with technology. Students can expect to refine their artistic voice while collaborating with peers across disciplines in a vibrant, innovative setting.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#12

SUNY at Purchase College

Purchase, NY · 3,197 students · Public

74% accepted 62% graduate $45,092 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Studying Visual arts at Bowdoin College is an opportunity for students to engage deeply with their artistic passions while benefiting from a strong liberal arts foundation. This program attracts individuals who are not only creative but also intellectually curious, as they explore the relationship between art, culture, and history. Students are encouraged to take risks in their work, fostering an environment where artistic growth flourishes.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#14

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University's Visual bachelor's program attracts ambitious artists eager to explore the depths of their creativity. This program emphasizes both technical skill and conceptual development, encouraging students to experiment across multiple visual disciplines. For those who thrive in a rigorous and inspiring academic atmosphere, this pathway offers a robust foundation for a career in various art fields, from fine arts to design.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at Amherst College is perfect for students who seek an intimate learning environment where they can grow as artists and thinkers. With a focus on critical engagement and personal exploration, students delve into various visual media, developing their unique artistic voices. The program nurtures creativity and encourages students to challenge conventions, making it ideal for those with a strong desire to innovate in their craft.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#16

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at Washington University in St. Louis attracts creative thinkers eager to develop their artistic voice. Students engage deeply with both traditional and contemporary visual arts, fostering a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for diverse careers in design, art education, and beyond. The collaborative environment encourages experimentation and self-expression, making it an ideal fit for those who thrive in a vibrant artistic community.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

Oberlin College

Oberlin, OH · 2,887 students · Private nonprofit

34% accepted 80% graduate $58,343 earnings

Oberlin's full profile

#18

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia's Visual bachelor's program is ideal for students eager to explore the intersection of art and technology in a vibrant urban setting. Here, students dive into a creative environment that encourages innovation and experimentation, preparing them for diverse careers in fields like graphic design, multimedia art, or interactive media.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore's Visual bachelor's program is tailored for students who value a strong liberal arts education alongside their artistic pursuits. Here, students engage deeply with their craft while developing critical analytical skills, preparing them for a range of careers in the arts that require both creativity and thoughtful engagement with society.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#20

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Visual bachelor's program at the University of Florida caters to students who are eager to explore the intersection of art and society. Ideal for those with a passion for creativity and a desire to make an impact, the curriculum encourages experimentation and critical thinking. Students dive deep into their artistic practices while gaining valuable skills that prepare them for a variety of careers in the arts.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#21

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

New York University’s Visual bachelor's program appeals to students who are eager to immerse themselves in one of the world's greatest cultural hubs. The program encourages students to explore a wide range of artistic expressions while navigating the vibrant art scene of New York City. Students here are well-prepared to engage with contemporary issues through their work, making it an ideal path for those who want to impact society through visual storytelling.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College’s Visual bachelor's program is tailored for students with a keen interest in exploring the diverse dimensions of visual art and its impact on society. The program emphasizes both individual expression and critical analysis, encouraging students to cultivate their artistic voice while engaging with New York City's rich cultural landscape. This immersive experience prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the arts and creative industries.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at Dartmouth College is perfect for students who want to combine artistic vision with critical inquiry. The curriculum encourages exploration across different mediums, allowing students to hone their craft while engaging in interdisciplinary projects. This approach equips graduates with a strong foundation in both technical skills and artistic theory, preparing them for various roles in the creative industries.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#24

Belmont University

Nashville, TN · 7,137 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 71% graduate $55,930 earnings

Belmont's full profile

#25

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual bachelor's program at the University of Southern California is designed for ambitious, forward-thinking students who want to make their mark in the creative industry. With access to top-tier resources and a vibrant arts community in Los Angeles, students can immerse themselves in a dynamic curriculum that encourages innovative thinking and hands-on experience. This program is ideal for those who thrive in an environment that challenges conventions and nurtures artistic exploration.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#26

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College offers a Visual bachelor's program that appeals to students ready to express their artistic vision in a dynamic urban setting. This program fosters creativity and critical thinking, equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate various creative industries and make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape of Brooklyn and beyond.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Students in Wesleyan's Visual bachelor's program often find themselves drawn to its collaborative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. This program attracts those who are passionate about visual storytelling and seek to develop their artistic voice, preparing them for impactful careers in various creative industries.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#28

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

At Smith College, the Visual bachelor's program invites students to dive deep into their artistic passions while developing their technical skills. This program is perfect for those who want to create meaningful visual work and engage with art history, theory, and contemporary practices. Students benefit from a supportive environment that encourages exploration and risk-taking, all while being part of a close-knit community in Northampton, MA.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College's Visual bachelor's program is ideal for students who thrive in an urban setting and are passionate about visual storytelling. This program emphasizes experimentation and critical thinking, preparing students for various artistic careers by focusing on the intersection of art and social issues. Here, students will engage deeply with their community, gaining the skills to express their creativity in meaningful ways.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

At Colby College, the Visual bachelor's program is an excellent fit for creative students eager to explore their artistic voice in a supportive environment. Here, you'll engage with a close-knit community that values collaboration and critical thinking, perfect for those looking to make meaningful contributions in the visual arts. The program encourages experimentation and growth, allowing students to refine their craft while benefiting from the college's rich artistic resources.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO · 2,304 students · Private nonprofit

86% accepted 63% graduate $50,876 earnings

Webster's full profile

#32

Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, RI · 2,084 students · Private nonprofit

19% accepted 89% graduate $68,140 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

At Colgate University, the Visual bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about expressing their ideas through various artistic mediums. This program encourages a deep exploration of visual storytelling, pushing students to develop a strong personal voice while engaging with their peers in a vibrant, intellectually stimulating environment. The close-knit community fosters collaboration and creativity, essential skills for anyone looking to thrive in the visual arts field.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#34

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, MA · 1,831 students · Public

76% accepted 69% graduate $43,582 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#35

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The Visual bachelor's program at the University of Central Florida attracts creative individuals looking to develop their artistic abilities in a supportive and dynamic environment. Students engage with a wide range of visual arts disciplines, from traditional media to digital practices, preparing them for a variety of careers in the art world. UCF’s large and diverse student body enriches the creative experience, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and inspiration.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Hampshire College

Amherst, MA · 839 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 56% graduate $46,938 earnings

Hampshire's full profile

#37

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA · 1,727 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 81% graduate $69,107 earnings

Muhlenberg's full profile

#38

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University offers a dynamic Visual bachelor's program that attracts students eager to blend creativity with technical skills. This path is well-suited for individuals who want to develop their artistic abilities while also engaging in a rich cultural experience within the university's supportive community.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#39

Stephens College

Columbia, MO · 391 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 45% graduate $43,071 earnings

Stephens's full profile

#40

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

Barnard College's Visual bachelor's program engages students who aspire to explore their artistic talents in a rigorous academic environment. Situated in New York City, this program encourages young women to cultivate their unique perspectives and empowers them to create impactful artwork that resonates within the broader cultural dialogue.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#41

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

At Hamilton College, the Visual bachelor's program attracts creative thinkers who thrive in a collaborative environment. Students delve into various forms of visual expression, working towards honing their craft while engaging with a community that values artistic exploration and critical thinking.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#42

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

At Tufts University, the Visual bachelor's program is designed for students who are passionate about merging creativity with critical thinking. This path is perfect for those looking to explore diverse artistic disciplines while benefiting from a strong liberal arts education, fostering not only artistic skills but also a broader worldview.

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Ithaca College

Ithaca, NY · 4,242 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 75% graduate $63,548 earnings

Ithaca's full profile

#44

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

At Emory University in Atlanta, the Visual bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about creativity and storytelling through art. Here, students immerse themselves in a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment that encourages exploration and innovation, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in visual communication and design.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College's Visual bachelor's program is ideal for students eager to explore the intersection of creativity and critical thinking. Here, students immerse themselves in a vibrant artistic community, developing their skills through hands-on projects and collaborative experiences. The program nurtures individual expression while equipping students with the technical knowledge necessary for a career in the visual arts.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#46

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Students pursuing a Visual bachelor's degree at Bates College will find themselves immersed in a collaborative and creative environment. The program is ideal for those who are passionate about visual storytelling and eager to explore their artistic voice while engaging with a close-knit community of like-minded peers.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Emerson College

Boston, MA · 3,870 students · Private nonprofit

51% accepted 78% graduate $62,832 earnings

Emerson's full profile

#49

Bard College

Annandale-On-Hudson, NY · 2,414 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 70% graduate $46,543 earnings

Salem College

Winston-Salem, NC · 423 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 57% graduate $44,640 earnings

Looking into the data reveals a distinct pattern. While both Rice University and Johns Hopkins University rank among the top choices, their outcomes differ significantly. Rice graduates earn an average of $89,718, slightly less than those from Johns Hopkins at $87,555. However, Rice's lower net price of $13,370, compared to Johns Hopkins' $18,809, may make it a more financially viable option for many students.

After reviewing this ranking, it's important to weigh these metrics against your personal priorities. Consider what matters most to you: are you prioritizing lower debt, higher earning potential, or perhaps a specific location that fits your lifestyle? Each school has its strengths, so think about how these factors align with your goals and circumstances.

The data here underscores an important truth: choosing the right college can significantly impact your financial future. One family's decision to prioritize a school with strong graduation rates and lower debt could lead to more stable job prospects and a better quality of life post-graduation. With the right information, we can all make informed choices for our futures.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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