Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at SUNY at Fredonia

Among New York's theatre programs, SUNY Fredonia lands in the 60th percentile for graduate earnings—a meaningful advantage in a state where most drama grads start below $19,000. The $20,453 first-year salary jumps to over $31,000 by year four, suggesting graduates are finding traction in their careers rather than stalling out early. While that's still modest income, the trajectory matters for a performing arts degree where professional growth typically takes time.

The $27,000 debt load sits near both state and national medians, creating a 1.32 debt-to-earnings ratio that's workable if that upward earnings trend continues. Fredonia trails the state's top programs (Manhattan School of Music graduates earn $29,400), but outpaces most competitors while charging SUNY tuition rates. For families balancing cost and outcomes in theatre training, that combination has appeal.

The major caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual experiences could vary widely. One or two outliers can skew small samples considerably. If your student is serious about theatre and wants affordable training at a program that's at least holding its own statewide, Fredonia merits consideration—but verify current class sizes and career support before committing.