Theater & Dramaat CUNY New York City College of Technology
Graduates earn $14,799/yr in their first year — about 30.0% below the national Theater & Drama average. Base-case 10-year earnings $474K; scenarios range from $445K to $473K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at CUNY New York City College of Technology
Your earnings data for this program reflects the unique, highly competitive nature of New York City's arts and entertainment industry. While the region offers unparalleled opportunities in theatre, film, and live events, many graduates initially enter project-based, freelance, or entry-level positions within smaller production companies, off-Broadway houses, or event setup crews. These roles, though crucial for building experience, often start with modest pay, especially given the high cost of living in the area. NYCCT's practical curriculum provides essential stagecraft and production skills, but navigating the dense network of unions, production pipelines, and independent companies requires significant proactive effort. To maximize your earning potential, focus intensely on networking and securing internships with major production houses or established event companies during your studies, as these connections are critical for accessing more stable and higher-paying opportunities.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to CUNY New York City College of Technology's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Theater & Drama
How CUNY New York City College of Technology stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at CUNY New York City College of Technology
Other highest-scoring programs offered at CUNY New York City College of Technology, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Theater & Drama offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Theater & Drama trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Theater & Drama at CUNY New York City College of Technology
How does CUNY New York City College of Technology's Theater & Drama program score?
This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Theater & Drama. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why are Theater & Drama earnings lower at CUNY New York City College of Technology?
Lower starting pay at CUNY New York City College of Technology may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.