Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at American Academy of Dramatic Arts-Los Angeles

The small sample size here demands caution, but the available data reveals a challenging reality: graduates are earning just $16,346 four years out—barely above the poverty line—while carrying $17,170 in debt. That's essentially a full year's salary owed. What's more troubling is that among California's 46 theater programs, this one falls in the 40th percentile for earnings despite Los Angeles being the entertainment capital. Compare this to New York Film Academy down the road, where graduates earn nearly $1,000 more annually with the same certificate credential.

The 14% earnings growth over four years sounds encouraging until you realize it translates to just $2,000—from $14,335 to $16,346. These are part-time income levels, suggesting most graduates are piecing together gig work rather than landing stable positions in the industry. At 90% admission, this is essentially an open-enrollment program, which raises questions about whether selective admissions might better match students to realistic career paths.

For a family considering this investment: your child would graduate with debt equal to 120% of their first-year earnings in a city with astronomical living costs. Unless they have significant family support or a clear path to higher-paying entertainment work, this program presents serious financial risk. The certificate format may work for students already established in the industry seeking specific skills, but as a standalone credential for breaking in, the numbers tell a sobering story.