Music Education Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Preparation for teaching music in schools and educational settings.
Starting Salary
$40K
median
Mid-Career
$55K
salary
ROI Payback
6 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
3%
rate
Music Education Overview
Preparation for teaching music in schools and educational settings.
Category
Education
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
72%
Enrollment Trend
declining
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
12%
Lifetime Premium
$250K
Female Graduates
52%
Music Education Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$16,200
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$16,200
after scholarships
ROI Payback
3 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$233,800
Lifetime earnings premium ($250,000) minus net degree cost ($16,200)
Music Education Salary Progression
Common Music Education Careers
Music Teacher
Band Director
Choir Director
Private Instructor
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Music Education
#1
Indiana University
#2
University of Michigan
#3
Eastman
#4
Oberlin
#5
Ithaca College
Related Majors
Music Education Degree FAQ
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