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Interested in pursuing a music degree?

We've compiled some data that we think parents, students, and high school educators might find helpful when considering college for the music-minded high school graduate.

The competency of music educators who have graduated from the lesser prestigious schools in the United States may not be as high as those who have graduated from the most esteemed music colleges. These schools may not have the same resources, facilities, or faculty expertise as the more prestigious institutions, which can result in less comprehensive and rigorous music education programs.

Graduates of these schools may not have the same understanding of music theory, history, and pedagogy as those from more prestigious institutions. They may not have had as many opportunities to observe and participate in teaching and may not have been exposed to many different teaching methods and strategies. Additionally, they may not have had as many opportunities to gain performance experience or to work with students of different ages, abilities, and learning styles.

However, it's important to note that the quality of education can vary significantly from school to school, even within the same prestige or lack of it. And that a music educator from a less prestigious institution can still have great skills and competencies and provide an excellent education to their students.

There may be a disparity in the competencies of music educators who have graduated from the most and most minor prestigious schools, but it's not always the case. Factors such as the passion, dedication, and experience of individual teachers, as well as the resources and support available to them in their specific school or district, can also play a significant role in determining the quality of their education and their impact on their students.


We've compiled a list of the top ten colleges and universities for those pursuing a degree in music education. It should go without saying that this listed may change based on factors unknown to us at the writing of this article. This article does not mean to offend anyone, any school, university, or professor. After all, we are entitled to our own opinion, and this article reflects mine based on my research. If you disagree, that's quite alright!



The Julliard SChool of Music, NYC
The Julliard SChool of Music, NYC

  1. The Juilliard School - New York, NY - estimated cost per year: $52,470

  2. Eastman School of Music - Rochester, NY - estimated cost per year: $48,838

  3. The Curtis Institute of Music - Philadelphia, PA - estimated cost per year: $45,180

  4. New England Conservatory of Music - Boston, MA - estimated cost per year: $49,250

  5. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music - Bloomington, IN - estimated cost per year: $29,904

  6. University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance - Ann Arbor, MI - estimated cost per year: $34,624

  7. Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD - estimated cost per year: $50,184

  8. University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music - Cincinnati, OH - estimated cost per year: $29,836

  9. Manhattan School of Music - New York, NY - estimated cost per year: $49,150

  10. The Hartt School - University of Hartford - West Hartford, CT - estimated cost per year: $43,898


It's important to note that these costs are approximate and may vary depending on the specific program, housing, and other personal expenses. Some of these institutions also offer financial aid and scholarships, which can help reduce the cost of attendance. These institutions also may have different criteria for admittance and application process. It's always recommended to check the institution's official website to get the most accurate information regarding cost, application, and admittance process.


Here is the list of top institutions for jazz performance, along with their estimated cost per year:

  1. Manhattan School of Music - New York, NY - estimated cost per year: $49,150

  2. The Juilliard School - New York, NY - estimated cost per year: $52,470

  3. The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music - New York, NY - estimated cost per year: $48,328

  4. Berklee College of Music - Boston, MA - estimated cost per year: $54,840

  5. New England Conservatory of Music - Boston, MA - estimated cost per year: $49,250

  6. North Texas State University - Denton, TX - estimated cost per year: $22,872

  7. Indiana University - Bloomington, IN - estimated cost per year: $29,904

  8. University of Miami - Frost School of Music - Coral Gables, FL - estimated cost per year: $49,224

  9. William Paterson University - Wayne, NJ - estimated cost per year: $28,560

  10. University of North Texas - Denton, TX - estimated cost per year: $22,872


It's important to note that these costs are approximate and may vary depending on the specific program, housing, and other personal expenses. Some of these institutions also offer financial aid and scholarships, which can help reduce the cost of attendance. These institutions also may have different criteria for admittance and application process. It's always recommended to check the institution's official website to get the most accurate information regarding cost, application, and admittance process.


The previous lists were compiled based on various sources, such as rankings by reputable organizations like U.S. News & World Report and DownBeat, as well as input from professionals in the field. These sources consider factors such as reputation, faculty, facilities, and the success of alumni in their careers.

It's always recommended to research and compare multiple institutions to make an informed decision about which school is the best fit for your interests and goals.



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