Theater & Drama at Drew University

Madison, NJ · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
22 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
22
Optimistic
22
Base Case
20
Pessimistic
Earnings $13,710/yr (-35% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (37% exposed)
Job Market Large (78,700 openings/yr)
ROI 2.1x earnings multiple
Ranked #126 of 270 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

The earnings figures for Drew's Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft program suggest graduates often navigate a highly competitive initial career landscape. While Madison, NJ offers proximity to the vibrant New York City theatre scene, many roles in this field, particularly entry-level positions in stagecraft, production, or performance, are often non-union and can be low-paying as you build experience and a portfolio. Drew, as a liberal arts institution, may focus on a broad theatrical education rather than highly specialized vocational training or direct industry pipelines common in conservatories. This means you’ll likely need to actively seek out extensive internships, network aggressively within the tri-state area's numerous production companies and regional theatres, and potentially pursue union apprenticeships to advance. Be prepared for a non-linear career path where early opportunities are crucial for long-term growth.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Theater & Drama graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $372K $381K $370K
Earnings Multiple 2.1x 2.1x 2.0x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 33% 27%
DegreeOutlook Score 22 22 20

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$181,440
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$102,576
43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
23.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$38,978
184% growth from Year 1

About Drew University

A 69% admission rate makes Drew University accessible to a wide range of qualified students, a smaller institution with 1,510 students in Madison, NJ. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $102,576 — 43% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Drew University →

Top Career Paths

Producers and directors $83,480/yr
Fashion designers $80,690/yr
Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
View all 12 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Theater & Drama at Other Schools

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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

What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Theater & Drama at Drew University?
At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Theater & Drama programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Theater & Drama degree from Drew University?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 24 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Drew University a good choice for Theater & Drama despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Drew University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →