Visual and Performing Arts at New York University

NYU's Visual and Performing Arts program delivers something rare in this field—significant earnings growth that transforms an initially modest salary into a competitive income. While graduates earn $28,990 in their first year (below the state median of $30,082), they see their earnings nearly double to $56,533 by year four. That 95% growth rate suggests the program successfully connects students to New York's arts economy in ways that compound over time, though the initial years may require financial flexibility.

The debt picture is reasonable at $25,000, matching both state and national medians, with a manageable 0.86 debt-to-earnings ratio even at the lower first-year salary. What complicates the value assessment is that 40th percentile state ranking—programs like SUNY Purchase achieve similar or better first-year outcomes at likely lower cost. However, NYU's 72nd percentile national ranking and dramatic earnings trajectory suggest the university's connections and reputation translate into career acceleration that takes a few years to materialize.

For families who can weather the lean early years, this program offers genuine upside in a field where many graduates struggle to increase earnings. The key is whether you're comfortable with a slow financial start in an expensive city, banking on the network effects that distinguish NYU from more affordable alternatives. If immediate financial stability matters most, or if substantial family support isn't available for those first years in New York, the initial earnings gap from schools like Purchase should factor heavily into your decision.