Analysis
UT Austin's theatre program stands out dramatically in a field notorious for weak early earnings. At $33,261 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 61% more than the national median for theatre programs and 33% more than the typical Texas graduate in this field. This isn't just the best theatre program in Texas—it's in the top 5% nationally.
The $26,000 median debt is reasonable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.8. For context, theatre graduates nationally often face much grimmer math, with many programs producing $20,000 earners carrying similar debt loads. Here, the monthly loan payment represents a manageable portion of entry-level income. The 80th percentile ranking within Texas shows this program consistently outperforms most state alternatives, including respected programs at Stephen F. Austin and Texas Tech.
The combination of UT Austin's selective admissions (29% acceptance rate) and industry connections in a vibrant arts city like Austin likely explains the earnings premium. If your child is committed to theatre and competitive enough to gain admission, this program offers about as strong a financial foundation as you'll find in this field. The debt is moderate and the earning power—while modest in absolute terms—is exceptional relative to alternatives.
Where The University of Texas at Austin Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all drama/theatre arts and stagecraft bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Texas at Austin graduates compare to all programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 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 | — | — | — |
 The University of Texas at ArlingtonArlington | $11,728 | $26,474 | $29,954 | $27,000 | 1.02 |
| 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 The University of Texas at Austin, approximately 25% 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 38 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.