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Compare Master’s in Music Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Master’s in Music Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

A master’s of music degree program prepares students for a career in various music-based occupations, including performance, composition, conducting, and teaching. Most programs require a minimum of 32 credits, which a student can complete with two years of full-time study.

In 2022, a master’s of music degree program cost an average of $20,513 annually. The average salary for a music director and composer is $62,590, postsecondary teachers earn $82,380, and producers and directors earn an average of $82,510. Some professions within the music industry, like production and direction, are growing faster than others.

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  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Music degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 25 Accredited Master’s in Music Degree Programs

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#1
Houston, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Rice University

Intelligent Score: 99.78
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $50,310

Out-of-state: $50,310

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $47,306

Out-of-state: $47,306

Test scores

SAT: 1460-1570

ACT: 34-36

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
11%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
94%
Students enrolled
8,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$68k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,175 - $1,442

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

44-54

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 713-348-4854

#2
Evanston, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Northwestern University

Intelligent Score: 98.02
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $58,227

Out-of-state: $58,227

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $56,067

Out-of-state: $56,067

Test scores

SAT: 1430-1550

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
9%
On-campus students
99%
Graduation Rate
95%
Students enrolled
23,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$72k
Average Student Debt
$16k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,713

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32-62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 847-491-5740

#3
New Haven, CT | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Yale University

Intelligent Score: 97.13
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $57,700

Out-of-state: $57,700

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $44,500

Out-of-state: $44,500

Test scores

SAT: 1460-1580

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
7%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
96%
Students enrolled
12,000
Student to faculty ratio
4:01
Average Salary
$68k
Average Student Debt
$13k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,341

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

72

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 203 432-4155

#4
Los Angeles, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Southern California

Intelligent Score: 96.68
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $59,260

Out-of-state: $59,260

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $47,880

Out-of-state: $47,880

Test scores

SAT: 1340-1530

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
16%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
46,000
Student to faculty ratio
9:01
Average Salary
$61k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,354

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 213-740-8986

#5
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

New York University

Intelligent Score: 95.66
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,204

Out-of-state: $52,204

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $34,704

Out-of-state: $34,704

Test scores

SAT: 1370-1540

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
8:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,185

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

36-39

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-998-5424

#6
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

The Juilliard School

Intelligent Score: 95.00
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $86,582

Out-of-state: $86,582

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: Not Required

ACT: Not Required

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
11%
On-campus students
87%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
608
Student to faculty ratio
5-to-1
Average Salary
32,800
Average Student Debt
31,032

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,266

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

54-72

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-799-5000

#7
Baltimore, MD | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Johns Hopkins University

Intelligent Score: 92.26
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $54,160

Out-of-state: $54,160

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $57,010

Out-of-state: $57,010

Test scores

SAT: 1470-1560

ACT: 34-36

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
11%
On-campus students
12%
Graduation Rate
94%
Students enrolled
29,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$68k
Average Student Debt
$16k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,589 - $4,315

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-50

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 667-208-6600

#8
East Lansing, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Michigan State University

Intelligent Score: 89.24
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,555

Out-of-state: $40,384

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $18,858

Out-of-state: $18,858

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1300

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
76%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
81%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $867

Non-Resident: $1,703

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-35

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 517-355-2140

#10
Ann Arbor, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Michigan

Intelligent Score: 86.95
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $16,520

Out-of-state: $53,669

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $24,344

Out-of-state: $24,344

Test scores

SAT: 1340-1520

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
26%
On-campus students
9%
Graduation Rate
93%
Students enrolled
48,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $1,931

Non-Resident: $3,493

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 734-764-0593

#11
Boston, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Boston University

Intelligent Score: 86.38
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $56,854

Out-of-state: $56,854

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $56,854

Out-of-state: $56,854

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1500

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
20%
On-campus students
88%
Graduation Rate
89%
Students enrolled
33,000
Student to faculty ratio
10:01
Average Salary
$53k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,042

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 617-353-3350

#12
Bloomington, IN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Indiana University Bloomington

Intelligent Score: 84.91
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,815

Out-of-state: $36,194

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,786

Out-of-state: $9,786

Test scores

SAT: 1120-1350

ACT: 24-31

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
80%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
80%
Students enrolled
43,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $719

Non-Resident: $2,251

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 812-855-1738

#13
Fort Worth, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Texas Christian University

Intelligent Score: 84.08
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $51,570

Out-of-state: $51,570

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $32,220

Out-of-state: $32,220

Test scores

SAT: 1110-1320

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
48%
On-campus students
5%
Graduation Rate
82%
Students enrolled
11,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,145

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 817-257-7232

#14
Berkeley, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of California, Los Angeles

Intelligent Score: 84.01
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $41,196

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $11,442

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1530

ACT: 30-35

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
17%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
42,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$13k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $566 - $755

Non-Resident: $1,055 - $1,384

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

48-63

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 310-825-4761

#15
Dallas, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Southern Methodist University

Intelligent Score: 83.34
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $51,958

Out-of-state: $51,958

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $40,896

Out-of-state: $40,896

Test scores

SAT: 1250-1450

ACT: 29-33

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
53%
On-campus students
69%
Graduation Rate
81%
Students enrolled
12,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$68k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$500 - $1,600

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-48

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 214-768-3217

#16
Coral Gables, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Miami

Intelligent Score: 83.27
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,080

Out-of-state: $52,080

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $45,288

Out-of-state: $45,288

Test scores

SAT: 1250-1420

ACT: 28-32

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
33%
On-campus students
67%
Graduation Rate
83%
Students enrolled
18,000
Student to faculty ratio
12:01
Average Salary
$55k
Average Student Debt
$17k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,421

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

33

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 305-284-6168

#17
Austin, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

The University of Texas at Austin

Intelligent Score: 83.04
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,448

Out-of-state: $40,032

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $12,028

Out-of-state: $12,028

Test scores

SAT: 1210-1470

ACT: 26-33

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
32%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$52k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $575

Non-Resident: $1,067

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-33

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 512-471-7764

#18
Boston, MA | 4 years | Online | Private

Berklee College of Music

Intelligent Score: 81.66
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $44,360

Out-of-state: $44,360

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $42,973

Out-of-state: $42,973

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
52%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
65%
Students enrolled
7,000
Student to faculty ratio
9:01
Average Salary
$26k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,660

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-42

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-237-5533

#19
Rochester, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Rochester

Intelligent Score: 80.70
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $57,188

Out-of-state: $57,188

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $49,792

Out-of-state: $49,792

Test scores

SAT: 1330-1510

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
35%
On-campus students
18%
Graduation Rate
86%
Students enrolled
12,000
Student to faculty ratio
10:01
Average Salary
$49k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,050

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 585-274-1560

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How to Choose a Master’s in Music Program

Choose your area of study

Consider your personal and career goals before applying to a music school or program. Your goals will influence what type of program you choose.

In most cases, degree options include a Master of Music (M.M., M.Mus.) or a Master of Music in your declared music major. For example, a master’s music student majoring in composition will attain a Master of Music in Composition.

Areas of study for a Master of Music program usually include performance, conducting, teaching (pedagogy), or composition. More specifically, a program might offer concentrations in music education, music theory, collaborative piano, and string instruments.

Research schools and programs

As you research potential programs and institutions, focus on accredited schools. A program’s regional or national accreditation, or lack thereof, can impact your ability to transfer credits from your undergraduate degree and attain funding.

To learn more about the program, visit the school’s website and contact the program representative or admissions counselor. If possible, tour the campus and facilities. If an in-person visit is impossible, you can attend a virtual open house or information session.

Prepare for tests and applications

To apply for a master’s in music, you can expect to submit:

  • Transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Letters of recommendation from music professionals
  • Proof of undergraduate degree in music or arts
  • A statement of purpose or personal essay
  • A completed application and fees

In addition to these documents, acceptance into most master’s in music programs involves an audition and video recording of your skill.

Depending on your area of focus, you may also need to provide a statement of teaching philosophy (pedagogy), research papers, GRE scores, and complete an entrance exam.

Some institutions require an application to the school and the program. The application process varies by school and program. For the most accurate information, contact an admissions counselor.

Select your program

The application process for many master’s in music programs is rigorous, and it can be tempting to go with the first institution that accepts you. Before you commit, review your needs and goals and set parameters for your logistical needs, including whether you can enroll in part-time or full-time coursework.

Consider your opportunities for personal and artistic growth. Many programs emphasize individuality and originality, aiming to develop your talents and prepare you to be a well-rounded artist after graduation. For guidance and additional insights, speak with an admissions counselor, program representative, or faculty member.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Financial considerations are often at the forefront of many students’ minds. Consider completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Schools use the results of this application to determine eligibility for need-based aid.

You can also contact the admissions counselor or program administrator for program-specific financial aid, grants, and scholarships.

Another often untapped option for financial aid is non-profit and community organizations. Before applying, research the organization to understand its purpose and beliefs. In your essay, detail how your career goals and personal aspirations align with their ethos.

What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Music Degree Program

A prospective master’s in music student can expect to advance their skills in performance and composition and deepen their knowledge in musical theory, history, and pedagogy.

Most programs take up to two years of full-time enrollment to complete, and the required course load averages 36 credits. Students should prepare for a combination of lab and lecture coursework. Graduate apprenticeships are common.

In addition to completing the required coursework, graduation from a master’s program can involve a juried degree recital, comprehensive exams, and a master’s thesis demonstrating original research in an area of musical study.

Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in music degree program

  • Analytic Methods for Music and Media. This course explores music through the framework of modern media, emphasizing analytic and interpretive methods. Topics include installations, games, videos, television, and film.
  • Research Methodologies in Music Pedagogy. This course explores the research methodologies of music pedagogy. Topics include theoretical frameworks and methods originating from the social sciences.
  • Professional business practices. Students learn the core practices of the music industry business. By the end of the course, they will be able to demonstrate their competency and knowledge of marketing and promotion, entrepreneurship, and the characteristics of performance contracts and publishing.
  • Research and Editions. This course guides students through the research and evaluation process to discover editions of compositions that represent the most and least authoritative versions. Students will journal their weekly findings and provide evidence to support their conclusions.
  • Text, Form, and Narrative in Instrumental Music. Students explore major instrumental genres in Western traditions from the 17th century to now. They’ll discuss the relationship between notated instrumental music, programmatic titles, and implied narratives in the score. Outcomes include an ability to produce stylistically relevant storytelling through harmony and form.

Master’s in Music Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a master's in music degree program?

Apply for a master’s in music degree program through the school’s website. Students can expect to submit test scores, transcripts, and proof of completion of a bachelor’s degree in music or arts. Most programs ask for at least three letters of recommendation from a music professional, a statement of purpose or personal essay, and a resume or CV.

In addition to these materials, students may be required to submit a video of their performance and complete a juried audition. Students applying for a master’s in music teaching specialty also need to submit their GRE scores and a video demonstrating their teaching style.

How much does a master's in music degree cost?

The average tuition for a master’s in music is $20,513 a year. Tuition costs are higher at most private schools than public schools. Students can anticipate additional costs for course material and school-specific costs like medical insurance or student services.

The annual tuition does not include accommodations, meals, and personal expenses. If you are considering living on campus, compare the average cost of living off campus with the cost of room and board — also, factor in transportation, parking, and the time spent in transit when comparing costs.

Scholarships, grants, and other funding will reduce your total out-of-pocket expenses.

How long does it take to earn a master's in music degree?

A master’s in music generally takes two years to complete. Coursework for these programs is immersive, and the field is competitive — practice and commitment to your musical skill set will further your ability to demonstrate proficiency through performance. This demonstration is a part of your final graduation from the program.

Expect to complete at least 36 credits for your master’s degree. These credits are in addition to the completion of a prerequisite baccalaureate. Some programs make considerations based on skill, experience, and demonstrated knowledge.