Rankings / Masters

Best Master's in Visual

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

Schools Analyzed

$73,561

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

83%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,939

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a master's degree in visual and performing arts, students are often looking for programs that not only foster creativity but also lead to solid career outcomes. The schools on this list excel in preparing graduates for the job market, as evidenced by the average earnings of $78,351 for graduates from these programs.

What sets the top programs apart is their impressive graduation rates, low debt levels, and strong mobility outcomes. These factors indicate that graduates are not only completing their degrees but also finding success in their careers without being burdened by excessive debt. The list below highlights schools with the highest graduate earnings and completion rates in the field, providing a clear picture of what to expect.

For instance, Rice University stands out with the highest earnings of $89,718 and a remarkable graduation rate of 95%. Meanwhile, the Fashion Institute of Technology, while offering a solid educational experience, has lower average earnings at $62,696 and a graduation rate of 82%. This contrast illustrates the trade-offs students may face when selecting a program.

Key Findings

Rice University graduates earn an average of $89,718, the highest on this list.

Johns Hopkins University boasts a 94% graduation rate, indicating strong student support.

The average net price across these programs is $17,787, balancing cost and quality.

Graduates from these programs have an average debt of $12,000, keeping financial burdens manageable.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $73,561

Avg. graduation rate 83%

Avg. net price $23,939

Avg. median debt $17,806

How We Ranked

Master's programs ranked by graduate earnings, 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 →

Fashion Institute of Technology

New York, NY

Graduation82%

Earnings$62,696

Net Price$19,095

View full profile →

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

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 master's program at The Cooper Union caters to students who are passionate about merging artistic vision with technical skills. Here, you'll find a focus on collaboration and innovation, pushing boundaries in visual arts while engaging with a community deeply invested in both science and art. Students work toward developing a unique portfolio that reflects their personal aesthetic and professional aspirations.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Fashion Institute of Technology

New York, NY · 7,637 students · Public

The Visual master's program at the Fashion Institute of Technology is ideal for creative individuals eager to deepen their understanding of visual culture and apply it in practical contexts. Students in this program explore various aspects of visual arts, preparing for careers that blend creativity with business acumen. The dynamic curriculum encourages collaboration and innovation, perfectly suited for those looking to make a mark in the visual landscape.

60% accepted 82% graduate $62,696 earnings

Fashion's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

At Johns Hopkins University, the Visual master's program welcomes students who are eager to explore the intersection of creativity and research. This program encourages experimentation and critical thinking, equipping students to tackle contemporary visual challenges. The collaborative environment fosters deep connections among peers and faculty, enhancing the learning experience and preparing students for a diverse range of careers in the visual arts.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College’s Visual master's program is designed for individuals who want to harness their creative vision in an academically rigorous setting. Students engage in a rich dialogue about art and its impact on society, while honing their technical skills in various mediums. The intimate class sizes foster close mentorship relationships, allowing for personalized guidance as students navigate their artistic journeys.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual master’s program at Rice University is a vibrant space for creative thinkers eager to explore the intersection of art and technology. Students here engage in a collaborative environment that encourages experimentation and innovation, working toward becoming skilled visual communicators in a rapidly evolving field. With Houston’s dynamic arts scene as a backdrop, this program attracts those who are not only passionate about visual storytelling but also committed to pushing boundaries in their work.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University’s Visual master’s program is ideal for students ready to challenge the status quo in visual arts and communication. The program fosters a culture of experimentation and critical inquiry, perfect for those looking to push artistic boundaries and engage with diverse perspectives. Students benefit from a rich interdisciplinary environment that encourages collaboration across various fields, enhancing their ability to think creatively about visual stories.

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

The Visual master's program at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts caters to dedicated artists seeking a focused and intensive educational experience in the arts. Students here work closely with peers and faculty to refine their craft, often exploring various mediums and techniques that prepare them for the competitive landscape of the visual arts industry.

30% accepted 78% graduate $38,357 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University, the Visual master’s program attracts individuals who seek to blend artistic vision with critical theory and social engagement. This program encourages students to develop a unique voice and perspective, preparing them to tackle complex visual challenges in today’s society. The open curriculum allows for interdisciplinary exploration, making it a perfect fit for creative minds who want to forge their own path in the visual arts.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University’s Visual master’s program is designed for students passionate about visual culture and its impact on society. Here, students delve into the nuances of visual communication while developing critical thinking and technical skills. The program cultivates an atmosphere of artistic exploration, encouraging students to express their unique perspectives while engaging with the wider Nashville arts community.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#10

Oklahoma City University

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

The Visual master's program at Oklahoma City University is well-suited for creative individuals seeking to refine their artistic skills while exploring innovative approaches to visual storytelling. This program encourages a hands-on learning experience, where students can experiment and express their unique perspectives within a community of like-minded peers, making it an ideal choice for aspiring artists and designers.

77% accepted 65% graduate $54,655 earnings

Oklahoma's full profile

#11

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College nurtures a vibrant community for students in its Visual master's program, ideal for those passionate about exploring visual arts through a critical lens. Students engage deeply with their craft, drawing on Wellesley's supportive atmosphere to refine their artistic voice and develop essential skills for impactful storytelling through visual mediums. This program is perfect for those looking to make a difference in fields such as design, media, and education.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#12

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

At Carnegie Mellon University, the Visual master's program is designed for ambitious individuals looking to shape the future of visual arts. Students here engage in a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes both conceptual exploration and practical application, ideal for those who aspire to lead in creative industries. This program cultivates a collaborative spirit, encouraging students to learn from one another while honing their unique artistic identities.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#13

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

The Visual master's program at Bowdoin College is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the intersection of art and social engagement. Here, students work toward honing their creative expression while delving into critical theory, making it a perfect fit for those eager to challenge the status quo through visual media. The intimate setting fosters collaboration and dialogue, encouraging students to push boundaries and develop their unique artistic voice.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#15

Yale University

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

Yale's Visual master's program is an ideal fit for students who are eager to explore the intersections of art, culture, and technology. Here, students can immerse themselves in a vibrant community that encourages experimentation and critical thinking, working toward developing a unique artistic voice in a setting rich with resources and mentorship.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

At Amherst College, the Visual master's program is crafted for students who seek to engage deeply with their artistic practice while benefiting from a liberal arts education. This program is well-suited for those who value the fusion of creativity and critical thinking, encouraging exploration across disciplines. Students have the opportunity to develop their artistic vision in a nurturing environment that emphasizes dialogue and collaboration among peers and faculty alike.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#17

Washington University in St Louis

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

At Washington University in St. Louis, the Visual master's program attracts students eager to explore innovative approaches in their art practice. This program is ideal for those looking to merge technical skills with conceptual depth, preparing them to make a significant impact in the art world. With a vibrant community of creatives, students engage in rigorous exploration and collaboration, enhancing their ability to tell compelling visual stories.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#18

Oberlin College

Oberlin, OH · 2,887 students · Private nonprofit

34% accepted 80% graduate $58,343 earnings

Oberlin's full profile

#19

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia's Visual master's program attracts students who are passionate about integrating their artistic visions with urban experiences. In the heart of New York City, students engage with diverse artistic communities and have numerous opportunities for collaboration, all while refining their skills and conceptual frameworks in a dynamic setting.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#20

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual master's program at Swarthmore College is designed for students who are deeply engaged in the artistic process and seek to explore innovative visual storytelling. This program cultivates a community of thinkers and creators, pushing students to not only refine their technical skills but also develop a unique voice in their art. Here, collaboration is key, and students work closely with peers and faculty who share their passion for visual expression.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#21

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Visual master's program at the University of Florida caters to students who are eager to explore the intersections of art, technology, and culture. It's a fitting choice for those who are not only passionate about visual creation but also interested in how their work can engage and influence communities. Students benefit from a collaborative academic environment that promotes creativity and critical thinking in a bustling university setting.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#22

New York University

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

The Visual master's program at New York University is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the intersection of art and technology. Here, students dive into a vibrant creative community, honing their skills while collaborating with peers in a dynamic urban setting. This program encourages innovative thinking and practical application, preparing graduates for a range of careers in the visual arts.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College provides a Visual master's program that resonates with students who are eager to blend artistic expression with community connection. The program emphasizes cultural diversity and encourages students to explore contemporary art forms while developing their unique voice. Here, students collaborate and engage with the rich tapestry of New York's art scene, preparing them for impactful careers in the visual arts.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth's Visual master's program attracts creative thinkers eager to push boundaries in art and design. Here, students immerse themselves in a collaborative environment that encourages experimentation and innovation, all while rooted in a strong liberal arts tradition. This program is ideal for those who want to blend technical skills with artistic vision, preparing to tackle complex visual challenges in various industries.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#25

Belmont University

Nashville, TN · 7,137 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 71% graduate $55,930 earnings

Belmont's full profile

#26

University of Southern California

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

Pursuing a Visual master's degree at the University of Southern California means stepping into one of the most dynamic artistic environments in the country. This program attracts passionate individuals who are eager to explore the intersection of technology and visual arts. Students gain hands-on experience and are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines, which fosters a rich environment for artistic experimentation and innovation.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#27

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College’s Visual master's program is an excellent choice for aspiring artists who want to engage with the vibrant cultural scene of New York City. The program encourages exploration and expression, allowing students to develop their unique artistic identities while collaborating with peers and leveraging the city’s diverse resources. This environment fosters creativity and critical engagement, preparing students for various careers in the visual arts.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan's Visual master's program is tailored for students who seek a close-knit, intellectually stimulating environment to cultivate their artistic talents. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, students work collaboratively to push the boundaries of visual art while receiving personalized feedback from faculty and peers, preparing them for a variety of creative careers.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#29

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Students in the Visual master's program at Smith College are immersed in an environment that values creativity and critical thinking. This program caters to individuals who seek to expand their artistic voice and engage deeply with visual communication. The supportive community encourages collaboration, allowing students to refine their craft while exploring the broader implications of their work in the arts.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College's Visual master's program attracts students passionate about art and culture, aiming to develop their unique voices in a dynamic urban setting. This program is particularly suited for individuals looking to engage with diverse perspectives and create work that resonates within the vibrant New York art scene, fostering both technical skills and critical engagement with contemporary issues.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College’s Visual master's program attracts students who are eager to merge their creative talents with a rigorous academic framework. This program is ideal for those looking to push boundaries in visual art, encouraging experimentation and critical thinking. Students here immerse themselves in a vibrant artistic community that fosters collaboration and innovation, preparing them for diverse careers in the visual arts sector.

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

#33

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

Colgate University's Visual master's program is an excellent fit for creative individuals eager to explore their artistic vision in an intellectually stimulating environment. Students are encouraged to engage with diverse artistic practices and take risks in their work, fostering a spirit of innovation. This program prepares graduates to navigate the evolving landscape of the visual arts, equipping them with the skills needed for success in various fields.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#35

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, MA · 1,831 students · Public

76% accepted 69% graduate $43,582 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#36

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The Visual master's program at the University of Central Florida is designed for creative thinkers and aspiring artists eager to make their mark. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that nurtures their artistic skills while encouraging innovation, preparing them for a variety of careers within the visual arts industry.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Hampshire College

Amherst, MA · 839 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 56% graduate $46,938 earnings

Hampshire's full profile

#38

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA · 1,727 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 81% graduate $69,107 earnings

Muhlenberg's full profile

#39

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University's Visual master's program caters to driven individuals who wish to integrate their artistic talents with a strong ethical foundation and cultural perspective. Students will have the opportunity to deepen their artistic skills and engage with diverse perspectives, preparing them for impactful roles in the visual arts industry and beyond.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#40

Stephens College

Columbia, MO · 391 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 45% graduate $43,071 earnings

Stephens's full profile

#41

Barnard College

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

The Visual master's program at Barnard College attracts creative thinkers who are eager to explore the intersection of art and society. Students here are immersed in a vibrant community that encourages experimentation and collaboration, preparing them to tackle visual challenges in today’s complex world. With access to New York City's rich cultural resources, graduates leave equipped to make meaningful contributions in various visual fields.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#42

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College's Visual master's program is a great fit for students passionate about visual storytelling and design. Here, creativity meets critical thinking, allowing students to cultivate their unique artistic voice while learning essential skills for the modern visual landscape. The close-knit community fosters collaboration and mentorship, which can be invaluable as students work toward their professional goals in visual arts.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#43

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

The Visual master's program at Tufts University attracts creative thinkers eager to blend art and technology. Students will immerse themselves in an environment that encourages experimentation and innovation, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in the visual arts. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, those in the program will work closely with peers from diverse fields, enriching their artistic perspective and expanding their professional network.

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

#45

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University's Visual master's program caters to students who wish to dive deep into visual storytelling and innovative design. This program emphasizes critical thinking and artistic development, blending a rigorous curriculum with hands-on experiences that prepare students to tackle real-world challenges in the visual arts. Here, students refine their skills while exploring the cultural and social implications of their work in a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

At Carleton College, the Visual master's program is designed for those who are eager to delve into the complexities of visual culture and communication. Students will engage deeply with critical thinking and hands-on projects, preparing them for diverse roles in the arts, media, or design sectors, all within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#47

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

At Bates College, the Visual master's program attracts students passionate about pushing creative boundaries and exploring artistic expression in a supportive community. This program is ideal for those who want to develop their artistic voice while engaging critically with contemporary issues in the visual arts, all within a collaborative and interdisciplinary framework that encourages individual growth.

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

#50

Bard College

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

52% accepted 70% graduate $46,543 earnings

The data reveals a notable trend: graduates from Rice University enjoy significantly higher earnings compared to those from the Fashion Institute of Technology. With Rice graduates making $89,718 on average versus $62,696 for Fashion Institute graduates, it's clear that the return on investment can vary widely. This disparity highlights the importance of evaluating both earnings potential and the overall educational experience when choosing a program.

As you reflect on this list of 50 master's programs, consider how each school aligns with your personal priorities. Think about location, the specific focus of the program, and campus culture. Financial factors, such as net price and potential debt, should also play a crucial role in your decision-making process. Weigh these data points against what you value most in your education to find the right fit.

Ultimately, this data emphasizes the crucial link between education and economic stability. A master's degree in visual and performing arts can open doors, but the right school can make all the difference. For one family weighing their options, choosing a program with a strong track record in earnings and completion rates could mean the difference between financial stress and a more secure future.

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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