Dance at Ball State University

Muncie, IN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
25 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
25
Base Case
20
Pessimistic
Earnings $28,838/yr (28% vs median)
AI Risk Low (24% exposed)
Job Market Medium (11,500 openings/yr)
ROI 10.1x earnings multiple (3.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 62 Dance programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The strong outcomes for Ball State's Dance program suggest a curriculum that effectively balances artistic development with practical career readiness. While Muncie isn't a global dance capital, the program likely leverages its public university structure to connect you with opportunities in regional arts education, community programs, and local performance circuits. This often includes robust training in pedagogy, preparing you for roles like postsecondary instruction or K-12 arts teaching, which tend to offer more stable income streams than a purely performance-based career, especially early on. The low AI risk further underscores the human-centric, creative nature of these professions. You'll likely benefit from a strong alumni network in the Midwest, facilitating transitions into diverse roles beyond the stage. To maximize your potential, actively seek internships with local arts organizations or teaching opportunities during your studies to build a versatile portfolio.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Dance graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $434K $436K $413K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.1x 10.1x 9.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.8x 3.8x 3.6x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 35% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 26 25 20

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,032
Out-of-state: $115,064 (3.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$63,592
-48% less than sticker · See by income

About Ball State University

With 72% of applicants admitted, Ball State University prioritizes broad access, serving 13,770 students in Muncie, IN.

See all programs and financial aid at Ball State University →

Top Career Paths

Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Choreographers $55,600/yr
Dancers N/A
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Dance at Other Schools

Other Majors at Ball State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Ball State University's Dance program score?
This program scores 25/100 — on the lower end for Dance. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why does Ball State University rank so high for Dance?
The #10 ranking out of 62 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →