Performing Arts Studies at Elon University

Elon, NC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Visual and Performing Arts, Other
13 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
13
Optimistic
13
Base Case
10
Pessimistic
Earnings $18,903/yr (-24% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Small (9,000 openings/yr)
ROI 2.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #7 of 8 Visual and Performing Arts, Other programs

Program Analysis

Elon's "Visual and Performing Arts, Other" program, often interdisciplinary, prepares graduates for a creative landscape where initial compensation can be modest as you build your professional portfolio and establish a presence. This reflects the reality of many arts careers, which are less linear and more portfolio-driven, frequently involving freelance work or roles within local arts organizations, educational settings, or smaller creative agencies. The regional market around Elon isn't a primary hub for large-scale creative industries, meaning you'll likely seek opportunities in major metropolitan areas. The noted AI risk highlights the rapid evolution of creative fields; while foundational artistic skills remain paramount, integrating digital tools and understanding new technologies will be crucial for long-term career resilience. Your success will heavily depend on aggressive networking and developing a highly adaptable skillset.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Performing Arts Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $380K $392K $382K
Earnings Multiple 2.1x 2.2x 2.1x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 36% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 13 13 10
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$178,144
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$164,192
8% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,526
15.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$16,958
Small cohort — data may not reflect typical outcomes

About Elon University

With a 67% acceptance rate, Elon University is moderately selective, serving 6,402 students in Elon, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at Elon University →

Top Career Paths

Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
View all 1 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Performing Arts Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at Elon 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 Elon University's Performing Arts Studies program score?
This program scores 13/100 — on the lower end for Performing Arts Studies. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Elon University Performing Arts Studies graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.3x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Performing Arts Studies to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Performing Arts Studies careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 44% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Performing Arts Studies earnings lower at Elon University?
Lower starting pay at Elon 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 →