Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at Long Island University

LIU's theater program produces graduates earning less than $19,000 annually—and those numbers actually decline to under $14,000 by year four. That's roughly 60% worse than what graduates earn at Manhattan School of Music or University at Buffalo, and it falls below the already-modest state median of $18,740. The $26,000 in typical debt means graduates face monthly loan payments equivalent to weeks of full-time work at these income levels.

The numbers suggest most graduates are cobbling together part-time theater work, retail jobs, or gig economy roles rather than establishing sustainable careers. Theater programs rarely produce high earners, but even within this field, LIU ranks in just the 40th percentile statewide and 31st nationally. The negative earnings trajectory—dropping 26% between years one and four—indicates graduates aren't gaining traction as they gain experience.

For families considering this investment: if your student is passionate about theater, SUNY schools like Buffalo or Potsdam offer similar training with better post-graduation outcomes at lower cost. If LIU is the choice for other reasons (location, specific faculty), understand that financial independence will likely require either family support, a working spouse, or a separate income stream during the crucial early career years.