Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

The small sample size here is crucial context, but the pattern it reveals is troubling: a first-year median of just $16,892 suggests many graduates struggle to find full-time work in their field initially. While earnings nearly double by year four to $31,912, this still trails every major Illinois program and sits in just the 25th percentile statewide—meaning three-quarters of Illinois theatre programs deliver better outcomes.

The $26,010 debt load isn't extraordinary for theatre degrees, but paired with those first-year earnings, it creates a debt-to-income ratio of 1.54—meaning graduates owe more than 18 months of their initial salary. That's a difficult position for launching a career in the arts, where income volatility is already the norm. The fact that even Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, within the same state system, produces median earnings 60% higher by year four raises questions about whether this particular program provides adequate industry connections or professional training.

The 89% earnings growth is encouraging and suggests graduates eventually gain traction, but starting this far behind peers creates real hardship during the critical early-career years. Unless your child has exceptional talent, strong family financial support, or is committed to this specific program for reasons beyond employment outcomes, other Illinois options appear to offer better returns for similar debt levels.