Theater & Dramaat New York University
Graduates earn $20,916/yr in their first year — about 1.0% below the national Theater & Drama average. Base-case 10-year earnings $444K; scenarios range from $421K to $441K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at New York University
Studying Drama/Theatre Arts at NYU places you at the epicenter of the American performing arts world, with unparalleled access to Broadway, off-Broadway, and countless production opportunities. Your initial earnings reflect the intense competition and "gig economy" nature of this industry, especially in a high-cost city like New York. Many graduates spend their early years in low-paying production assistant roles, internships, or even taking on non-arts work to sustain themselves while building their craft and network. The value of this degree often lies in the immersive environment, the professional connections you forge, and the high-level practical training that can lead to those long-term producer, director, or designer roles. Be prepared for a non-linear career path and plan your finances carefully to support yourself during this crucial foundational stage.
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 New York 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 Theater & Drama
How New York University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at New York University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at New York University, 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 New York University
What does a 14/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Theater & Drama at New York University?
At 14/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Theater & Drama programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Theater & Drama degree from New York University?
At $21,411 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.