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Colorado's most affordable Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft programs span a remarkable cost range, from Adams State University's $14,173 net price to University of Denver's $36,037. The state's growing entertainment industry, including film productions drawn by tax incentives and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts complex, creates opportunities for graduates despite modest median earnings of $22,999-$32,925. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with eight of the ten cheapest programs carrying net costs under $22,000. Metropolitan State University of Denver stands out with high acceptance rates at 97.91% and relatively strong graduate earnings of $30,771.
10
Programs
$14,173 – $36,037
Net Price Range
$27,264
Avg. Program Earnings
55.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,173 $9,776 31.6% 99.2%
2 $14,294 $10,780 29.9% 97.9%
3 $15,331 $9,712 41.5% 81.8%
4 $17,339 $9,670 43.1% 91.0%
5 $18,457 $12,010 51.3% 78.5%
6 $19,133 $10,017 47.4% 74.6%
7 $20,332 $12,896 66.9% 90.8%
8 $21,480 $16,430 75.0% 80.7%
9 $31,678 $67,932 86.0% 16.3%
10 $36,037 $59,340 78.0% 77.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Adams State University the most affordable option for theatre students?

Adams State University offers the lowest net price at $14,173 and charges in-state students just $9,776 annually. The university maintains a 99.18% acceptance rate, making it accessible to most applicants seeking affordable theatre training.

How do graduation rates vary among Colorado's cheapest theatre programs?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 29.90% at Metropolitan State University of Denver to 86% at Colorado College. The most affordable public options typically show graduation rates between 31-51%, while private institutions like Colorado College achieve much higher completion rates.

Is there a significant earnings difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

University of Colorado Denver graduates earn $32,925 despite moderate program costs, while University of Colorado Boulder graduates earn just $22,999 from a higher-cost program. This demonstrates that program price doesn't directly correlate with post-graduation earning potential in theatre fields.

What financial aid advantages do Colorado residents have for theatre programs?

The Colorado Opportunity Fund provides tuition stipends specifically for in-state students, reducing costs significantly. In-state tuition at public universities ranges from $9,670 to $16,430, while out-of-state students face much higher expenses at these same institutions.

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