Performing Arts Studiesat Elon University
Graduates earn $18,903/yr in their first year — about 24.0% below the national Performing Arts Studies average. Base-case 10-year earnings $392K; scenarios range from $382K to $380K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Elon University
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.
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 Elon 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 Performing Arts Studies
How Elon University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Elon University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Elon University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Performing Arts Studies offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Performing Arts Studies trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Performing Arts Studies at Elon University
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.