Analysis
The small sample size here demands caution, but the numbers tell a stark story: Saint Edward's theatre graduates earn substantially less than their peers elsewhere in Texas. That first-year figure of $15,925 ranks in just the 10th percentile among Texas theatre programs—well below the state median of $25,050 and trailing programs at UT Austin, Texas Tech, and UNT by wide margins.
The dramatic earnings jump to $38,383 by year four offers some hope, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing in Austin's arts scene. However, with $26,000 in debt, new graduates face nearly 20 months of first-year earnings just to cover their loans. Theatre degrees rarely promise financial security, but this program's outcomes lag behind what similar graduates achieve at other Texas schools, even accounting for the field's inherent challenges.
Given Austin's reputation as a cultural hub, these results are disappointing. If your child is committed to theatre, they'd likely fare better at UT Austin or even Texas State. The relatively high admission rate and modest test scores suggest Saint Edward's may not be attracting the most competitive theatre cohort, which could affect networking and career opportunities in a field where connections matter enormously.
Where Saint Edward's University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all drama/theatre arts and stagecraft bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Saint Edward's 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Edward's University | $15,925 | $38,383 | +141% |
| Texas Tech University | $28,933 | $39,572 | +37% |
| Sam Houston State University | $21,858 | $36,563 | +67% |
| Stephen F Austin State University | $29,945 | $36,116 | +21% |
| University of North Texas | $28,236 | $35,441 | +26% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (43 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Saint Edward's UniversityAustin | $51,384 | $15,925 | $38,383 | $26,000 | 1.63 |
 The University of Texas at AustinAustin | $11,678 | $33,261 | — | $26,000 | 0.78 |
 Stephen F Austin State UniversityNacogdoches | $10,600 | $29,945 | $36,116 | $26,000 | 0.87 |
 Texas Tech UniversityLubbock | $11,852 | $28,933 | $39,572 | $26,500 | 0.92 |
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $28,236 | $35,441 | $25,000 | 0.89 |
 University of the Incarnate WordSan Antonio | $35,660 | $27,295 | — | — | — |
| 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 Saint Edward's University, approximately 39% 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 29 graduates with reported earnings and 29 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.