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Best Value Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Colleges in Virginia

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Virginia's theatre programs show a stark cost divide, with University of Virginia's College at Wise offering the lowest net price at $11,180 while University of Richmond reaches $33,417. The earnings picture tells an equally complex story, ranging from $13,702 to $25,194, with Shenandoah University graduates commanding the highest salaries despite its $30,055 price tag. Virginia's proximity to Washington DC creates unique opportunities for theatre professionals, with the Kennedy Center and numerous regional theaters providing internships and career paths. The state's public institutions dominate the value equation, with Old Dominion University delivering strong employment outcomes at just $14,170 net cost. Federal contractors like Booz Allen Hamilton increasingly hire creative professionals for corporate communications and training roles, expanding job prospects beyond traditional theatre venues. Virginia Commonwealth University stands out with the lowest student debt at $20,500 while maintaining competitive graduation rates at 65.4 percent.
33
Programs
$11,180 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$20,871
Avg. Program Earnings
59.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

33 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,170 $19,683 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
2 $16,640 $22,192 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
3 $18,287 $21,964 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
4 $19,452 $23,134 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
5 $21,816 $21,234 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
6 $23,790 $21,964 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
7 $30,055 $25,194 $36,028 70.5% 80.4%
8 $22,881 $18,771 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
9 $18,749 $13,702 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
10 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
11 $18,436 $29,010 51.5% 95.0%
12 $33,417 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%
13 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
14 $24,014 $20,040 38.3% 99.5%
15 $23,383 $25,110 48.1% 75.8%
16 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
17 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
18 $20,583 $36,960 49.1% 81.4%
19 $23,911 $64,525 94.9% 17.0%
20 $27,759 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
21 $23,262 $38,550 43.6% 76.0%
22 $17,833 $33,157 55.7%
23 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
24 $29,552 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
25 $22,263 $42,260 69.7% 72.4%
26 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
27 $24,668 $52,388 65.3% 39.8%
28 $22,085 $38,320 28.9% 84.3%
29 $23,615 $41,860 47.1% 99.5%
30 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
31 $22,529 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
32 $20,173 $41,350 49.4% 90.4%
33 $22,198 $29,696 27.1% 63.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old Dominion University such a strong value for theatre students?

Old Dominion combines a reasonable $14,170 net price with $19,683 median earnings and a 95.14% acceptance rate. The Norfolk location provides access to the Chrysler Hall and Virginia Stage Company for internships. Students graduate with $25,000 in debt, which aligns well with the program's earning potential and regional job market.

How do private college costs compare to outcomes in Virginia theatre programs?

Shenandoah University charges $30,055 but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $25,194, creating a reasonable return on investment. University of Richmond costs $33,417 with an impressive 87.8% graduation rate but lacks earnings data. Private colleges benefit from the VTAG grant, which helps Virginia residents afford these higher-cost options.

Does Virginia Commonwealth University offer good value despite higher costs?

VCU's $19,452 net price produces graduates earning $23,134 with only $20,500 in debt, the lowest among major programs. The Richmond location provides access to Theatre IV and Firehouse Theatre Project. With a 65.4% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate, VCU balances accessibility with strong outcomes.

Where do Virginia theatre graduates find the best earning opportunities?

Graduates earning $25,194 from Shenandoah University lead the state, likely benefiting from proximity to Washington DC's theatre scene. The Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, and corporate training roles with defense contractors create varied income streams. Virginia's federal government presence also opens opportunities in educational theatre and communications roles.

Is the University of Virginia worth considering for theatre despite limited data?

UVA's 95.3% graduation rate ranks highest statewide, though earnings data remains unavailable and acceptance sits at just 18.66%. The $22,881 net price reflects strong financial aid, but competitive admission makes it less accessible. Charlottesville's cultural scene and alumni network may provide career advantages not reflected in immediate salary figures.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.