<p>soozievt: You are correct re: retention is not equivalent to cutting, though many theater web sites refer to their cut practices as 'retention standards/policies. But we have discussed the cutting issue many times.
Nevertheless, I am a bit guarded re: the retention rates at Purchase and NCARTS, not because it is due to cutting, but because it is likely due to general dissatisfaction among students across all majors. As a second (or third) tier SUNY grad (also got my MS degree from a SUNY school - ugliest place I’ve been at) many years ago, I can say that some SUNY campus communities have a lot to be desired. Other states did a much better job designing and building their public university system. I suspect that the poor retention rate at Purchase is due to the college as a whole (many complaints about the dorms, food, ambiance, etc in the guide books and internet sources). I suspect that Theater students, as is the case elsewhere, are very different from the broader college community, meaning the students are more satisfied and retention rates among BFA students much higher.
The retention numbers at NCARTS bug me a bit more. Since this is more of a pure conservatory, I am curious why their graduation rate is about that of Purchase. Also, compare their retention rates with other highly respected conservatories. Perhaps its the location, etc., as noted in various college guides. Please note that I am not criticizing schools. Each has their pros and cons. Choosing a school to apply to is a matter of figuring out which pros most resonate and which cons matter less. I am just texting my thoughts.</p>