Theater Arts Degree Program: Performing for a Paycheck

The curtain pulls back. The hot lights and the eyes of a waiting audience are on you--and you love it. A theater arts degree program is made for budding producers, actors, and directors who long for that limelight. And perhaps the most inviting aspect of the profession is that the industry itself is poised for major growth in the coming decade.

Career Options in Theater Arts

• Actor. The star of the show. Acting is a highly competitive industry that saves the spoils for the well-prepared and persistent professional.
• Director. Responsible for the show in total. They select parts for actors, musical scores, and other presentation details.
• Producer. Professionals that make the business and financial decisions for shows and concerts. Most have experience in contract negotiations.

Theater Arts: Employment Outlook and Salary Potential

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of theater arts degree holders is projected to increase by 11 percent in the decade through 2016; that's about as fast as the national average for all occupations. And potential salaries can vary widely by occupation. For example, according to PayScale, a first year production manager can potentially earn a median annual salary of $32,164 right out of college. Those with twenty years of experience can pull down $52,233.

Online Degree Program Coursework in Theater Arts

Online education in theater arts varies widely with your intended profession. Most training for actors involves lessons in liberal and dramatic arts. Producers and directors get more business and finance preparation. Available online degree options include associate's degrees to master's degrees in performing or fine arts.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Actors, Producers, and Directors
PayScale

Kelly Richardson has over fifteen years of creative and technical writing experience. He teaches secondary Honors-level English and writes ad copy for a variety of clients in industries such as medicine, technology, and education.