Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management at University of North Alabama

University of North Alabama's Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management program starts graduates at $25,805—below the national median—but shows impressive momentum with 39% earnings growth to nearly $36,000 by year four. Within Alabama, where options are extremely limited (only two schools offer this program), UNA ranks in the 60th percentile, essentially performing at the state median. The debt load of $24,937 is manageable, with a 0.97 debt-to-earnings ratio that means graduates owe slightly less than their first year's salary.

The trajectory matters here. While the starting salary ranks in just the 27th percentile nationally, the strong earnings growth suggests graduates are gaining traction in their careers relatively quickly. For a creative field where entry-level positions often pay modestly, reaching $36,000 within four years represents solid progress. The near-equal debt-to-earnings picture at graduation also means students aren't digging themselves into an unrealistic hole, even with that lower starting point.

This program makes sense for students committed to arts management who want to stay in Alabama and can weather the lean early years. The growth pattern indicates the degree opens doors that lead somewhere, but parents should ensure their child has financial cushioning for those first couple of years when earnings are tight.