Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $21,824 track close to the $21,147 national median for Theater & Drama programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 25.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Theater & Drama career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At a 1.1x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.
Western Carolina University ranks #7 among 270 Theater & Drama programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The $21,824-to-$35,165 earnings arc over five years reflects a 61% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.