2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts

We rigorously analyzed a host of variables to determine what colleges and universities offer the best Performing Arts programs in America. The list includes 178 programs and you can sort by average salary, debt, acceptance rate and more to hone in on the the best programs for you.

If you’re still wondering whether Performing Arts is the right field of study for you, check out our guide to majoring in Performing Arts: what you can do with the major, how much you’ll make, and more.

For the purposes of these rankings we prioritized earnings after graduation 6 years and 10 years out for students that majored in Performing Arts. Please note that earnings are one metric of success that can be used to judge a Performing Arts program, but are by no means the best or only option. However, because this variable is provided by the vast majority of universities offering Performing Arts we used it as the primary method or ordering the best universities for Performing Arts.

By scrolling all the way through the list you’ll find every college or university that offers a Performing Arts in America.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Universities offering Performing Arts Majors and Degrees

What is the best university for majoring in Performing Arts?

University of Florida (UF) is the best university for majoring in Performing Arts based on earnings data. On average, graduates from University of Florida (UF) earned an average of $48,041 2 years after graduating.

What is the cheapest university for majoring in Performing Arts?

University of North Georgia is the cheapest university for majoring in Performing Arts based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $4,403 to attend University of North Georgia.

What is the most expensive university for majoring in Performing Arts?

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is the most expensive university for majoring in Performing Arts based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $50,665 to attend Carnegie Mellon University (CMU).