Compare 7 Music. programs in Michigan. Average earnings: $34,827.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Music tells a different story. Across 7 programs, earnings range from $23,824 to $42,752—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
Central Michigan University's Music program leads with graduates earning $42,752, well above the $34,827 average. Michigan State follows at $38,589 with a larger 65-student cohort, while Grand Valley State rounds out the top three at $37,353—proof that regional programs compete on outcomes.
For students, debt burden reveals the real cost. Central Michigan graduates borrow $27,000 and face an 18.3% payment burden, rating 'Challenging' but manageable. When family loans are included, all top programs show high burdens over 36%, making student-only borrowing the smarter financial path.
Highest program earnings: $42,752
Strong outcomes with 91% acceptance
18.3% payment burden | Challenging
36.4% family burden | High burden
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $42,752 | 16 | $27,000 | Challenging | $23,103 | High | |
| #2 | $38,589 | 65 | $23,250 | Challenging | $37,401 | High | |
| #3 | $37,353 | 36 | $24,500 | Challenging | $26,392 | High | |
| #4 | Wayne State UniversityPublic | $36,019 | 42 | $21,250 | Challenging | $16,378 | High |
| #5 | Grace Christian UniversityPrivate | $33,256 | 12 | $24,375 | High | $14,303 | High |
| #6 | $31,996 | 43 | $26,188 | High | $22,488 | High | |
| #7 | $23,824 | 81 | $19,500 | High | $30,250 | 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 →
