Theater & Drama at University of the Arts

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
12 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
12
Optimistic
12
Base Case
10
Pessimistic
Earnings $12,085/yr (-43% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (37% exposed)
Job Market Large (78,700 openings/yr)
ROI 2.4x earnings multiple
Ranked #270 of 270 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft programs

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes for Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft graduates from the University of the Arts reflect the highly competitive and often non-traditional career paths within the performing arts. Many graduates dive into the vibrant, but often initially lower-paying, world of regional theatre, independent film, and event production, particularly in cities like Philadelphia. Roles in stagecraft, while essential, frequently involve freelance or project-based work, making consistent, high earnings challenging early on. You'll build your portfolio and network through local companies, festivals like FringeArts, or even theme parks and cruise lines, where initial pay may be modest. Success in this field heavily relies on relentless networking, demonstrable talent, and often, an entrepreneurial spirit to create your own opportunities. To navigate this landscape effectively, focus intensely on internships and building a strong, diverse portfolio of work throughout your studies, perhaps even exploring related skills like event management or technical direction to broaden your immediate career options.

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 $521K $518K $481K
Earnings Multiple 2.4x 2.4x 2.2x
Probability of Field Employment 36% 33% 27%
DegreeOutlook Score 12 12 10

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$217,160
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$176,616
19% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
26.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$36,737
204% growth from Year 1

About University of the Arts

University of the Arts accepts 78% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, a smaller institution with 1,064 students in Philadelphia, PA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of the Arts →

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

Theater & Drama at Other Schools

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Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Theater & Drama at University of the Arts?
A score of 12/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Theater & Drama. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Is Theater & Drama at University of the Arts worth the student debt?
Median debt of $27,000 against $12,085/yr starting salary means roughly 2.2 years of earnings go to repayment. That's above average — financial aid and loan terms matter here.
Can you still earn well with Theater & Drama from University of the Arts?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →