Theater & Drama at University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
19
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,610/yr (7% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (37% exposed)
Job Market Large (78,700 openings/yr)
ROI 7.0x earnings multiple (2.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #99 of 270 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your Berkeley Drama degree offers a unique blend of rigorous academic training within a world-class university and direct access to the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area arts scene. While Berkeley isn't a conservatory, its program often emphasizes critical theory, performance studies, and experimental theatre, attracting students interested in a multifaceted approach to the arts. This academic foundation, coupled with the university's prestige, can open doors to roles in production, arts administration, or even related creative fields like design, especially if you leverage the strong alumni network. The regional market's high cost of living means entry-level wages might feel modest initially, but the concentration of tech and creative industries offers unique opportunities to apply your skills in less traditional roles, such as content creation or experience design, beyond the stage. Networking aggressively through internships and local theatre companies during your studies is crucial. Focus on developing a diverse portfolio that showcases both your performance and technical or conceptual abilities to maximize your career trajectory in this competitive field.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Theater & Drama graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $409K $415K $397K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 6.9x 7.0x 6.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.2x 2.3x 2.2x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 33% 27%
DegreeOutlook Score 24 23 19

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$59,400
Out-of-state: $182,508 (2.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,916
-1% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,012
8.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$29,047
28% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Berkeley

Only 12% of applicants gain admission to University of California-Berkeley, reflecting elite selectivity, one of the larger campuses at 33,073 students in Berkeley, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-Berkeley →

Top Career Paths

Producers and directors $83,480/yr
Fashion designers $80,690/yr
Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
View all 12 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Theater & Drama at University of California-Berkeley?
At 23/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Theater & Drama programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →