Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $19,045 track close to the $21,147 national median for Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
An earnings multiple of 2.5x means the program roughly breaks even in financial terms over ten years. Non-financial factors need to justify the investment.
AI risk is moderate — 37% task exposure — and the 2% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $27,000 debt load exceeds a year of the $19,045 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
At #262 out of 270 programs, Cornish College of the Arts's financial outcomes for Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $19,045 to $21,752 over five years (14% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.