Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,922 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $75,688 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 80.0% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,922/yr |
The Risk Factor
80.0% of students at California College of Music graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
California College of Music delivers poor financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. The $18,922 annual net price creates substantial debt loads for a two-year program in an oversaturated music industry where stable, well-paying jobs remain scarce.
Your earning prospects after graduation depend heavily on your ability to build a freelance career or secure one of the limited positions in recording studios, live venues, or music education. The Los Angeles area music scene offers more opportunities than most regions, but competition remains fierce and income highly unpredictable. Most graduates piece together multiple part-time gigs rather than landing steady full-time positions.
The school's 80% graduation rate suggests students complete their programs, but only 7% receive financial aid, meaning you'll likely pay close to the full sticker price. This creates a dangerous situation where you accumulate debt equivalent to a four-year degree while earning a two-year credential in a field known for low and inconsistent wages.
This school makes financial sense only if you have substantial family support to avoid loans or already work in the music industry and need specific technical skills for career advancement. The hands-on training and industry connections in the Pasadena area may provide value for students who can afford to attend debt-free and have realistic expectations about music industry earnings.
If you need loans to attend, look elsewhere. The debt-to-income ratio will likely become unmanageable unless you're among the small percentage who achieve commercial success. Consider community college music programs or state universities with stronger financial aid packages that leave you with more affordable debt loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California College of Music worth the cost?
California College of Music's $18,922 annual net price is relatively affordable for music education, but career earnings in music are typically low and inconsistent. The 80% graduation rate is strong, though job prospects depend heavily on individual talent and networking rather than the degree itself.
What is the return on investment for California College of Music graduates?
Music careers generally offer poor financial returns compared to other fields, and California College of Music graduates face the same reality. Most music industry jobs pay below median wages, making it difficult to recoup educational costs through salary alone.
How much debt do California College of Music students typically have?
With a net price around $19,000 annually, students completing a four-year program could graduate with $76,000 in debt before interest. This debt level is risky given that entry-level music industry salaries often start below $30,000.
Which California College of Music programs have the best job prospects?
Music production and audio engineering programs typically offer better earning potential than performance degrees. However, all music industry careers remain highly competitive with uncertain income, regardless of specialization.