Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 57.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 52.5%
- Retention Rate
- 73.8%
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 3:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 58.8%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music. | Master | $26,585 | $64,250 |
| Music. | Bachelor | $15,922 | $27,000 |
Outcomes Overview
The 90% employment rate sounds impressive until you see the median earnings of $27,850 five years out. Graduates carry $27,000 in debt with monthly payments of $286, eating up 12% of typical income. Most conservatory graduates pursue freelance performance, teaching, or arts administration careers that prioritize passion over paychecks. The debt-to-earnings ratio of nearly 1:1 reflects the financial reality of classical music careers. Alumni like pianist Yuja Wang represent the rare breakthrough success stories. The intimate 3:1 student-faculty ratio and top training prepare students well artistically. However, the financial return represents a weak investment compared to most college degrees.