Top Ranked Programs
Manhattan School of Music is anchored in music performance and composition — a portfolio shaped by the institution's identity as a specialized conservatory in New York City. The program mix concentrates in classical music training across instrumental and vocal specializations, with performance pathways dominating the degree output. Across 2 programs, 0 meet Azimuth's ranking threshold, reflecting the institution's depth in music-specific disciplines. The earnings pattern at Manhattan School of Music reflects the realities of music-performance careers. Music, the largest program with 92 graduates, generates median earnings of $27,952 four years after enrollment. Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft follows as a substantial program with 28 graduates. The highest-earning program tracked is Music, where 92 graduates earn median earnings of $27,952 four years after enrollment — a figure that reflects the earnings premium available to performers who establish themselves in New York's music market and related creative industries. Music-performance pathways are inherently grad-school-dependent for many students, where four-year earnings undercount lifetime trajectory because a meaningful share of graduates pursue advanced degrees, artist residencies, or continued training before stabilizing earnings. The [supply and demand for college graduates](/analysis/supply-demand-map-college-degrees/) provides context for how music-performance fields align with labor-market demand and career-longevity patterns. For students considering Manhattan School of Music, earnings outcomes should be weighed alongside the institution's conservatory mission and the long-term career-building arc typical of music professionals.