Dance at The Ailey School

The Ailey School's dance certificate stands out nationally—ranking in the 95th percentile for earnings among dance programs—but the absolute numbers tell a more sobering story. While $13,598 in first-year earnings might top most dance certificates, it still leaves graduates earning barely above minimum wage in one of America's most expensive cities. The $19,500 in debt means students owe more than they'll earn in their first year, a challenging position for anyone trying to establish themselves in New York's competitive dance scene.

The 38% earnings growth to year 4 ($18,825) shows some upward trajectory, though graduates are still facing tight finances well into their mid-twenties. This is the reality of professional dance: The Ailey School may offer superior training and industry connections, but no program can override the fundamental economics of the field. For context, New York has only two schools offering comparable certificates, and The Ailey School sits at the 60th percentile statewide—above average but not exceptional in local terms.

If your child is committed to dance as a career, The Ailey School's reputation and relatively low debt load ($19,500 ranks in the bottom 5% nationally) make it a reasonable choice within a difficult field. But this certificate should be viewed as professional training, not a financial investment. Most students will need family support, roommates, or supplemental income to make ends meet during their early career years in New York.