Performing Arts Studies at New York University

New York, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Visual and Performing Arts, Other
20 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
20
Optimistic
20
Base Case
14
Pessimistic
Earnings $28,990/yr (17% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Small (9,000 openings/yr)
ROI 2.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #3 of 8 Visual and Performing Arts, Other programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Studying Visual and Performing Arts at NYU places you at the epicenter of the global creative industries. Your earnings potential, while above the national average for this field, reflects the highly competitive and often project-based nature of arts careers in New York City. The robust alumni network and direct access to internships and entry-level roles across advertising, media, entertainment, and gallery sectors provide a significant advantage, connecting you directly to employers in this vibrant market. However, success in these fields often prioritizes passion and networking over immediate high salaries, explaining why the initial financial score might seem modest compared to other disciplines. The high AI risk for these careers points to the increasing automation of certain creative tasks. Roles in digital art, content creation, and even some aspects of performance support are evolving rapidly with AI tools. You'll need to cultivate adaptability and specialize in areas requiring uniquely human creativity, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills to thrive. Focus on building a diverse portfolio and strong professional connections, as your ability to navigate this dynamic landscape will be key.

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 $644K $628K $567K
Earnings Multiple 2.7x 2.6x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 36% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 20 20 14

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$241,752
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$140,140
42% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
9.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$65,953
128% growth from Year 1

About New York University

New York University's 9% admission rate places it in the top tier of selectivity nationally, serving a student body of 29,430 in New York, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $140,140 over four years — 42% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at New York 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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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Performing Arts Studies at New York University?
A score of 20/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Performing Arts Studies. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace Performing Arts Studies careers?
With 44% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $566,696 in decade earnings vs $644,222 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →