Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University

Decatur, IL · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Visual and Performing Arts, Other
15 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
16
Optimistic
15
Base Case
12
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,815/yr (-8% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Small (9,000 openings/yr)
ROI 3.8x earnings multiple (2.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #6 of 8 Visual and Performing Arts, Other programs

Program Analysis

This "Other" Visual and Performing Arts degree from Millikin represents a highly specialized or interdisciplinary path within a field already known for its unique career trajectories. The program's placement in Decatur, IL, a smaller regional market, means local opportunities for these specialized roles may be more limited than in major cultural centers, potentially influencing starting salaries compared to national averages for this niche. Your career path will likely demand significant entrepreneurial spirit, as many graduates create their own opportunities in freelance, non-profit, or community arts rather than following established corporate pipelines. Given the high AI risk, focusing on uniquely human creative elements, critical thinking, and collaborative skills will be paramount. You'll need to actively build a robust portfolio and professional network, as the program's reputation and your individual drive will be key to accessing opportunities beyond the immediate region.

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 $399K $409K $395K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 3.7x 3.8x 3.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.3x 2.3x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 36% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 16 15 12

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$107,568
Out-of-state: $174,680 (2.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$35,348
67% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
13.7 months of Year 1 earnings

About Millikin University

Millikin University accepts 54% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a smaller institution with 1,458 students in Decatur, IL. The average net cost of $35,348 over four years represents a 67% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Millikin 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

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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 15/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
At 15/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Performing Arts Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Performing Arts Studies degree from Millikin University?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
The 44% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
What do students actually pay for Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
The 67% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $107,568. At a net cost of $35,348, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →