Cheapest Dance Colleges in Massachusetts

Public universities in Massachusetts deliver the most affordable dance education, with Bridgewater State University leading at just $17,970 net cost compared to private options reaching $50,404. The state's 12 dance programs span a remarkable price range of over $32,000, yet earnings for graduates hover between $21,964 and $26,121 regardless of institutional prestige. Massachusetts dance students benefit from proximity to Boston's theater district and numerous regional dance companies, creating performance and teaching opportunities that extend well beyond graduation. State schools maintain acceptance rates above 80%, making quality dance training accessible to most applicants.

Programs

$17,970 – $50,404

Net Price Range

$24,043

Avg. Program Earnings

66.4%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Dance Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Bridgewater State University Bridgewater, Massachusetts	$17,970	$11,389	54.6%	87.7%
2	University of Massachusetts-Boston Boston, Massachusetts	$18,282	$15,496	51.1%	80.8%
3	Salem State University Salem, Massachusetts	$18,441	$11,978	55.0%	92.7%
4	University of Massachusetts-Amherst Amherst, Massachusetts	$23,691	$17,357	83.2%	63.5%
5	Hampshire College Amherst, Massachusetts	$25,810	$56,630	57.2%	68.9%
6	Smith College Northampton, Massachusetts	$26,181	$61,568	89.7%	22.9%
7	Springfield College Springfield, Massachusetts	$29,187	$43,707	67.6%	75.6%
8	Mount Holyoke College South Hadley, Massachusetts	$29,562	$64,142	85.0%	39.8%
9	Dean College Franklin, Massachusetts	$30,236	$44,960	43.2%	76.0%
10	Bard College at Simon's Rock Great Barrington, Massachusetts	$36,684	$66,594	54.2%	95.5%
11	College of the Holy Cross Worcester, Massachusetts	$36,868	$60,850	89.6%	36.4%
12	Berklee College of Music Boston, Massachusetts	$50,404	$50,270	66.3%	54.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes public dance programs in Massachusetts so affordable?

The three cheapest programs are all public universities, with net costs under $19,000. In-state students at Bridgewater State pay just $11,389 in tuition, while Salem State charges $11,978. MassGrant Plus provides additional financial support for qualifying Massachusetts residents.

How do graduation rates compare between affordable and expensive dance programs?

Expensive private colleges like Smith and Mount Holyoke boast graduation rates near 90%, while the most affordable public options hover around 55%. UMass Amherst breaks this pattern with an 83.2% graduation rate at $23,691 net cost, offering strong outcomes at a moderate price.

Does attending a more expensive dance program lead to higher earnings?

Surprisingly, no clear correlation exists between program cost and post-graduation earnings. Berklee College of Music, the most expensive option at $50,404, shows graduates earning $21,964. Dean College graduates earn $26,121 despite paying $30,236 in net costs.

Where do Massachusetts dance graduates typically find work?

Boston's theater district houses multiple dance companies and performance venues, while the city's strong education sector creates teaching opportunities. The state's tourism industry also supports dance-related employment in entertainment and hospitality. Many graduates remain in Massachusetts due to the concentrated arts community.

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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.