Compare 5 Acting. programs in Kentucky. Average earnings: $21,131.
The highest-earning Acting program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $10K earnings gap across 5 programs in Kentucky, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
University of Kentucky's Acting program leads with graduates earning $25,690, well above the state average of $21,131. Northern Kentucky University follows at $24,505, while Western Kentucky University rounds out the top three at $21,052—demonstrating that multiple public programs deliver competitive outcomes.
Acting programs carry significant debt burdens statewide. University of Kentucky graduates borrow $22,500 with a concerning 99.5% payment burden, classified as 'High burden.' Northern Kentucky University shows similar challenges with $23,000 in student debt and a 164.6% burden—highlighting the financial reality facing performing arts graduates.
Highest program earnings: $25,690
Strong outcomes with 92% acceptance
99.5% payment burden | High burden - payment over 25% of discretionary
252.0% family burden | High burden - payment over 25% of discretionary
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University Of KentuckyPublic | $25,690 | 22 | $22,500 | High | $30,006 | High |
| #2 | $24,505 | 47 | $23,000 | High | $14,877 | High | |
| #3 | $21,052 | 31 | $22,095 | High | $18,310 | High | |
| #4 | Berea CollegePrivate | $19,227 | 9 | $3,591 | High | $0 | High |
| #5 | Murray State UniversityPublic | $15,182 | 8 | $20,500 | High | $18,465 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
