Theater & Dramaat Metropolitan State University of Denver
Graduates earn $28,901/yr in their first year — about 37.0% above the national Theater & Drama average. Base-case 10-year earnings $449K; scenarios range from $424K to $445K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Metropolitan State University of Denver
The strong earnings for MSU Denver's Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft program reflect a unique blend of a vibrant local arts economy and the program's practical focus. Denver's performing arts scene, anchored by institutions like the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and numerous smaller theaters, consistently demands skilled professionals in technical production, design, and management. Your stagecraft training here directly addresses this demand, preparing you for roles beyond traditional acting, such as lighting, sound, set design, and costume creation. These specialized skills are highly valued, leading to opportunities not just in theatre, but also live events, corporate productions, and even film. The emphasis on hands-on experience and real-world application means graduates often enter the workforce with immediately marketable talents. To maximize your potential, actively seek internships and network within Denver's extensive creative community throughout your studies.
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 Metropolitan State University of Denver'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 Metropolitan State University of Denver stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Metropolitan State University of Denver
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Metropolitan State University of Denver, 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 Metropolitan State University of Denver
How does Metropolitan State University of Denver's Theater & Drama program score?
This program scores 27/100 — on the lower end for Theater & Drama. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Why does Metropolitan State University of Denver rank so high for Theater & Drama?
The #32 ranking out of 270 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.