Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft at University of Southern Indiana

University of Southern Indiana's drama program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for earnings—an impressive feat in a field where most graduates struggle financially. At $27,010 in the first year, graduates earn 30% more than the typical theatre major nationwide, though they sit near the middle of Indiana programs. The $20,937 in median debt is actually lower than both state and national averages for this major, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.78 that's manageable by theatre standards.

The real story here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 22% income growth by year four, reaching $33,029. While these numbers won't rival engineering salaries, they're solid for a performing arts degree, particularly one from a regional public university with a 95% acceptance rate. Within Indiana, this program holds its own—sitting between Ball State and IU Bloomington, though well below Notre Dame's private school advantage.

The major caveat is sample size: fewer than 30 graduates reported data, so these figures could shift significantly year to year. But if you're a parent whose child is determined to study theatre, this program offers a relatively low-risk path. Your child will carry less debt than most theatre majors while earning more, and they'll graduate from an accessible institution where financial aid reaches 22% of students through Pell grants.