Dance at Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
8 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
9
Optimistic
8
Base Case
6
Pessimistic
Earnings $19,107/yr (-15% vs median)
AI Risk Low (24% exposed)
Job Market Medium (11,500 openings/yr)
ROI 2.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #60 of 62 Dance programs

Program Analysis

Pursuing a dance degree at LMU means entering one of the most competitive, project-based labor markets, particularly in a hub like Los Angeles. The outcomes reflect the inherent financial instability of a performance or choreographic career, where income often comes from a mosaic of gigs, workshops, and short-term contracts rather than a single, stable employer. Even roles like postsecondary teaching often require extensive graduate study and fierce competition for tenure-track positions. While LMU offers a rigorous artistic education and network, navigating the LA dance scene demands immense entrepreneurial spirit and a realistic financial strategy. Many graduates find themselves supplementing their artistic work with side jobs outside the field. As you consider this path, focus on building a versatile skillset and a robust financial plan: proactively explore minors or dual degrees that can offer a more stable income stream to support your artistic ambitions.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Dance graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $470K $470K $442K
Earnings Multiple 2.0x 2.0x 1.9x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 35% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 9 8 6

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$235,896
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$182,892
22% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,750
14.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$35,852
88% growth from Year 1

About Loyola Marymount University

A 40% admission rate makes Loyola Marymount University accessible to a wide range of qualified students, serving 7,171 students in Los Angeles, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at Loyola Marymount University →

Top Career Paths

Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Choreographers $55,600/yr
Dancers N/A
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Dance at Other Schools

Other Majors at Loyola Marymount University

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 8/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Dance at Loyola Marymount University?
At 8/100, 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 Loyola Marymount University?
At $22,750 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Loyola Marymount University a good choice for Dance despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Loyola Marymount 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 →