Analysis
Millikin's theatre program commands premium tuition but delivers strong results that actually justify the investment—a rarity in this field. At $24,013 in the first year, graduates earn more than 76% of theatre programs nationally and outpace the Illinois median by $3,300. More importantly, earnings climb 30% by year four to over $31,000, placing this program among the top performers in the state and ahead of programs at DePaul and UIUC. The $27,000 debt load sits slightly above state norms but remains one of the lowest nationally (5th percentile), creating a manageable 1.12 debt-to-earnings ratio.
What separates Millikin from typical theatre programs is the trajectory. While many arts degrees show flat or declining earnings, this program's graduates gain significant ground in years 2-4, suggesting the school's industry connections and practical training translate to steady career advancement. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these outcomes without the volatility of tiny programs.
For families willing to invest in a private theatre education, Millikin demonstrates better ROI than most alternatives in Illinois. The debt is real but reasonable, and graduates appear to build sustainable careers rather than just landing survival jobs. This is as strong a financial case as you'll find for a bachelor's in theatre.
Where Millikin University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all drama/theatre arts and stagecraft bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Millikin University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millikin University | $24,013 | $31,311 | +30% |
| Northwestern University | $19,245 | $36,466 | +89% |
| North Central College | $20,416 | $34,270 | +68% |
| Northern Illinois University | $23,517 | $33,587 | +43% |
| Illinois State University | $28,958 | $32,135 | +11% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (37 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Millikin UniversityDecatur | $26,892 | $24,013 | $31,311 | $27,000 | 1.12 |
 Illinois State UniversityNormal | $16,021 | $28,958 | $32,135 | $24,246 | 0.84 |
 Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale | $13,244 | $27,004 | $28,499 | $23,500 | 0.87 |
 Northern Illinois UniversityDekalb | $12,700 | $23,517 | $33,587 | $27,000 | 1.15 |
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignChampaign | $16,004 | $22,159 | $25,562 | $20,500 | 0.93 |
 DePaul UniversityChicago | $44,460 | $22,021 | $32,058 | $26,348 | 1.20 |
| National Median | — | $20,698 | — | $25,000 | 1.21 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with drama/theatre arts and stagecraft graduates
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
Producers and Directors
Media Programming Directors
Talent Directors
Media Technical Directors/Managers
Fashion Designers
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Set and Exhibit Designers
Music Directors and Composers
Actors
Dancers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Millikin University, approximately 35% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 41 graduates with reported earnings and 41 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.