Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at Pace University

Pace's theater program sits near the bottom nationally but middle-of-the-pack in New York—a distinction that matters when you consider that NYC is the country's theater capital. At 40th percentile statewide, these graduates earn less than other NY theater programs, but the comparison reveals how challenging the field is everywhere: even top-performing SUNY Buffalo graduates average just $25,810.

The numbers themselves tell a difficult story. First-year earnings of $16,659 barely cover rent in New York City, let alone student loan payments on $27,000 in debt. While earnings climb 45% by year four, reaching $24,112 still leaves graduates earning less than many entry-level retail positions. The debt burden is particularly concerning here—Pace ranks in the 5th percentile nationally for debt levels, meaning 95% of comparable programs saddle students with less debt for similar outcomes.

For a family paying private university tuition to train for one of the most competitive, lowest-paying industries in America, this is a tough sell. If your child is determined to pursue theater, SUNY schools deliver comparable or better outcomes at a fraction of the cost. If they're specifically committed to training in New York City, understand you're financing years of financial struggle in an expensive city—this degree functions more as an expensive passion project than a pathway to financial stability.