Dance at Belhaven University

Jackson, MS · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
12 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
13
Optimistic
12
Base Case
11
Pessimistic
Earnings $15,711/yr (-30% vs median)
AI Risk Low (24% exposed)
Job Market Medium (11,500 openings/yr)
ROI 3.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #51 of 62 Dance programs

Program Analysis

The earnings trajectory for Belhaven's Dance graduates often reflects the unique dynamics of pursuing performing arts in a regional market like Jackson, Mississippi, combined with the specific program focus. While Belhaven boasts a respected arts tradition, the local economy supports a different scale of professional dance opportunities compared to major arts hubs. Many graduates find rewarding careers combining performance with teaching in private studios, community arts organizations, or K-12 schools, or even integrating dance into worship arts programs. These roles, while fulfilling and impactful, typically have different salary structures than full-time professional company work in larger cities. To maximize your potential, actively seek internships with local arts groups and consider diversifying your skills into areas like arts administration or education.

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 $380K $383K $368K
Earnings Multiple 3.3x 3.3x 3.1x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 35% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 13 12 11

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$116,780
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$88,312
24% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,500
17.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$27,995
78% growth from Year 1

About Belhaven University

Belhaven University's 53% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, a compact campus enrolling 1,370 students in Jackson, MS. With 45% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at Belhaven 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 Belhaven University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Belhaven University's Dance program score?
This program scores 12/100 — on the lower end for Dance. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Belhaven University Dance graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.4x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
Why are Dance earnings lower at Belhaven University?
Lower starting pay at Belhaven University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →