Danceat George Mason University
Graduates earn $12,409/yr in their first year — about 45.0% below the national Dance average. Base-case 10-year earnings $370K; scenarios range from $356K to $367K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at George Mason University
Pursuing dance at George Mason places you in a vibrant artistic community within the competitive DC metro area. The figures reflect the reality of a field where professional performance careers are often project-based and highly sought after, rarely leading to high salaries right out of college. Many graduates build "portfolio careers," combining performance with teaching at local studios, choreographic projects, arts administration, or related fitness roles to create a sustainable income. While the region boasts impressive venues like the Kennedy Center and numerous smaller companies, securing full-time performance contracts is uncommon. Your success will hinge on proactive networking, diversifying your skills beyond just performance, and a clear understanding of the financial realities. Explore internships in arts management or pursue teaching certifications to broaden your prospects and build a financially viable career in the arts.
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 George Mason 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 Dance
How George Mason University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at George Mason University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at George Mason University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Dance offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Dance trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Dance at George Mason University
What does a 12/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Dance at George Mason University?
At 12/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Dance programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Dance degree from George Mason University?
At $26,950 in median debt, graduates carry 26 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is George Mason University a good choice for Dance despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If George Mason University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.