Theatre and Dance: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Students in this interdisciplinary program explore the dynamic interplay between theatre and dance, cultivating expertise across performance, production, and critical analysis. The curriculum emphasizes creative expression, technical mastery, and historical context, preparing individuals for diverse careers in the performing arts.
- Acting: Training in character development, vocal expression, and emotional authenticity for stage and performance contexts.
- Aesthetics: Examination of artistic values, sensory experience, and the philosophical foundations of performance art.
- Choreography: Design and composition of dance sequences, integrating movement, rhythm, and narrative structure.
- Costume Design: Creation of character-specific attire that supports storytelling and visual interpretation.
- Criticism: Development of analytical skills to evaluate performances, productions, and artistic trends with depth and objectivity.
- Dance: Study and practice of diverse dance forms, including contemporary, classical, and cultural traditions.
- Improvisation: Techniques for spontaneous performance, fostering adaptability, creativity, and ensemble collaboration.
- Music Analysis: Interpretation of musical elements within theatrical and choreographic contexts to enhance performance cohesion.
- Playwriting: Crafting original scripts with attention to dialogue, structure, theme, and dramatic impact.
- Theatre Performance History: Exploration of theatrical evolution across cultures and eras, from classical traditions to modern innovations.
- Scene Design: Conceptualization and construction of stage environments that support narrative and visual storytelling.
- Stage Lighting: Application of light as a storytelling and mood-enhancing tool in live performance settings.
- Technical Theatre: Hands-on instruction in backstage operations, including rigging, sound systems, and production management.
Theatre and Dance Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Theatre and Dance Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Theatre and Dance degrees, including Producers and Directors, Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary and Choreographers. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 309,490 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Producers and Directors 27-2012 | $83,480 | $43,060 - $198,530 | 145,270 | $40.13 |
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1121 | $80,190 | $47,040 - $194,530 | 97,890 | N/A |
| Choreographers 27-2032 | $55,600 | $33,080 - $94,090 | 3,430 | $26.73 |
| Actors 27-2011 | N/A | N/A | 38,800 | $23.33 |
| Dancers 27-2031 | N/A | N/A | 9,060 | $23.97 |
| Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other 27-2099 | N/A | N/A | 15,040 | $20.99 |
Theatre and Dance Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $49,150 in Kansas to $103,480 in New Jersey—a 111% difference. The highest-paying states include New Jersey, New York, and Hawaii. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 309,490 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Theatre and Dance by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 11 institutions offering Theatre and Dance programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Theatre and Dance is found at The University of Texas, Austin (37 graduates), University of Wyoming (UW) (19 graduates), Southern Illinois University (SIUE), Edwardsville (17 graduates), Modesto Junior College (MJC) (14 graduates), and Lamar University (LU) (9 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 122 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Texas |
Bachelor's
|
37 | Austin, Texas | Public | utexas.edu |
| University of Wyoming (UW) |
Bachelor's
|
19 | Laramie, Wyoming | Public | uwyo.edu |
| Southern Illinois University (SIUE) |
Bachelor's
|
17 | Edwardsville, Illinois | Public | siue.edu |
| Modesto Junior College (MJC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
14 | Modesto, California | Public | mjc.edu |
| Lamar University (LU) |
Bachelor's
|
9 | Beaumont, Texas | Public | lamar.edu |
| University of Dayton (UD) |
Bachelor's
|
7 | Dayton, Ohio | Private | udayton.edu |
| Grinnell College |
Bachelor's
|
5 | Grinnell, Iowa | Private | grinnell.edu |
| University of Nevada (UNR) |
Bachelor's
|
5 | Reno, Nevada | Public | unr.edu |
| The College of Wooster |
Bachelor's
|
4 | Wooster, Ohio | Private | wooster.edu |
| Lansing Community College (LCC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Lansing, Michigan | Public | lcc.edu |
| University of Hawaii (UHM) |
Bachelor's
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Honolulu, Hawaii | Public | manoa.hawaii.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Theatre and Dance programs
How much can I earn with a Theatre and Dance degree?
Salaries for Theatre and Dance graduates vary by role and location. Producers and Directors earn a median of $83,480 annually, while Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $80,190. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in New Jersey average $103,480 compared to $49,150 in Kansas. Approximately 309,490 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Theatre and Dance programs?
Currently 11 accredited institutions offer Theatre and Dance degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include The University of Texas, Austin (37 graduates), University of Wyoming (UW) (19 graduates), and Southern Illinois University (SIUE), Edwardsville (17 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Theatre and Dance degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Producers and Directors, Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary, and Choreographers. Related occupations employ approximately 309,490 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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