Theater & Dramaat Drew University
Graduates earn $13,710/yr in their first year — about 35.0% below the national Theater & Drama average. Base-case 10-year earnings $381K; scenarios range from $370K to $372K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Drew University
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.
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 Drew University'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 Drew University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Drew University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Drew University, 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 Drew University
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.