I’m currently a transfer student trying to decide between two very different programs. I plan on possibly working toward an MFA after undergrad, and I'm looking for a route that sets up a viable, sustainable creative career without taking on a massive financial burden.
I’m incredibly split and would love some outside perspective on these two options.
- UCSD – Speculative Design (2-year transfer)
- Cost: No scholarships, and I do not qualify for grants. However, I would be able to commute, which keeps the overall cost significantly lower than relocating. ~$18k/year tutition
- The Program: Housed in the Visual Arts dept. It’s critical, conceptual, and research-driven
- The Catch: It’s too theoretical to land an industry job by itself.
- ArtCenter – Illustration BFA (4-year transfer)
- Cost: I received a ~$20k/year scholarship, but I’d have to relocate to a high-cost-of-living area. The remaining tuition and living expenses would be a big out-of-pocket expense for my family.
- The Program: The opposite of UCSD. It’s an intensive industry pipeline.
- The Catch: It takes 4 years instead of 2. Way more expensive around ~$40k/year (tuition only)
(Technically, my family can afford both programs, but I just feel guilty burdening my parents with that much of an expense when a cheaper route exists.)
Does anyone have experience with either program or advice? I am really 50/50 on this right now, so any insight would be hugely appreciated!