Earnings Indicator
U.S. Department of Education Launches New Earnings Indicator: LCAD Excels in Affordability and Graduate Success
The U.S. Department of Education has announced a new Earnings Indicator resource to help students and families make informed decisions about their college journey, with better transparency into graduates’ earnings.
Earnings outcomes are just one important piece of the decision-making process, alongside factors such as program quality, cost, mission, location, and personal goals. With this added transparency, students and families can better understand the financial implications of their college decision.
Return On Investment
What the New Earnings Indicator Offers
Greater Transparency
Highlights institutions where graduates’ typical earnings fall below those of high school graduates, helping students assess long-term return on investment.
Publicly Available Data
Enhanced Support for Students
LCAD
Ranks First
LCAD Stands Out Among AICAD Peer Institutions
Laguna College of Art + Design is proud to share that this new report highlights LCAD as a national leader in both affordability and post-graduation earnings among the 30 undergraduate-degree–granting members of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD).
Art + Design
Education
Key Highlights for LCAD
- The number one Most Affordable Tuition on the West Coast among AICAD schools offering undergraduate degrees.
- One of the Most Affordable Nationally within our peer group.
- Top 9 Ranking for 2025 Inflation Adjusted College Scorecard Reported Undergraduate Earnings Four Years After Graduation.
These results affirm that LCAD students not only make one of the most affordable initial investments in a private art and design education but also see that investment rewarded through some of the highest post-graduation earnings in the nation.
LCAD’s Commitment
At LCAD, we believe students deserve clear, accessible information when planning their futures. We remain committed to providing an exceptional, career-driven art and design education, one that is both financially attainable and proven to deliver strong outcomes in the creative industries and return on investment.