Music Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study and performance of music including theory, composition, and applied techniques.
Starting Salary
$35K
median
Mid-Career
$55K
salary
ROI Payback
9 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
5.5%
rate
Music Overview
Study and performance of music including theory, composition, and applied techniques.
Category
Humanities
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
60%
Enrollment Trend
declining
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
45%
Lifetime Premium
$100K
Female Graduates
48%
Music Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$18,000
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$18,000
after scholarships
ROI Payback
N/A
to break even
Lifetime Return
$82,000
Lifetime earnings premium ($100,000) minus net degree cost ($18,000)
Music Salary Progression
Common Music Careers
Musician
Music Director
Composer
Music Teacher
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Music
#1
Juilliard
#2
Berklee
#3
Curtis
#4
Eastman
#5
New England Conservatory
Related Majors
Music Degree FAQ
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