Compare 7 Music. programs in Massachusetts. Average earnings: $29,762.
The highest-earning Music program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $27K earnings gap across 7 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
Topping the list, Northeastern University's program delivers $45,222 in median earnings, well above the state average of $29,762. Boston University follows at $33,281, while University of Massachusetts-Lowell produces graduates earning $30,623—demonstrating that program quality varies independently of overall school reputation.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Northeastern achieves the best student outcomes with a 14.7% payment burden, landing in the 'Manageable' category. However, when parent loans factor in, all three top programs create significant family burdens exceeding 39%, making careful financial planning essential for Music majors.
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Northeastern UniversityPrivate | $45,222 | 33 | $24,250 | Manageable | $34,984 | High |
| #2 | Boston UniversityPrivate | $33,281 | 31 | $23,250 | High | $39,000 | High |
| #3 | $30,623 | 54 | $23,704 | High | $18,400 | High | |
| #4 | Salem State UniversityPublic | $29,520 | 8 | $25,000 | High | $21,128 | High |
| #5 | Berklee College Of MusicPrivate | $26,414 | 657 | $25,000 | High | $87,996 | High |
| #6 | $24,546 | 118 | $27,000 | High | $59,267 | High | |
| #7 | $18,730 | 48 | $22,763 | High | $26,243 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
