Students interested in earning a music degree have a wide variety of universities and colleges to choose from. There are hundreds of unique music degree programs, from jazz to composition to music education. So how can you choose the best music degree for you? Our music schools ranking article is here to help. We’ve compiled a list of the top music schools in the country to help you narrow down your options.
Why Pursue a Degree in Music?
The music industry is highly competitive. But if music is your passion and you want to work professionally in the field, a degree can help. No matter what genre interests you, a college education in music can be essential for breaking into the field as a respected artist.
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A degree is not always necessary for working in certain areas of music. However, if you want a good-paying job in the industry, a degree can give you a well-rounded education in music. And often, a music degree can open doors that would otherwise be closed to those without substantial experience in the industry.
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Different Types of Music Schools
There are several types of music schools. When considering music school, most people think of conservatories like Juilliard or Curtis. These are specialized standalone colleges called conservatories. Students at a conservatory may take some liberal arts courses. But in general, most of their studies will be devoted to music.
Students at music conservatories typically graduate with a Bachelor of Music degree. But some conservatories offer Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music and Bachelor of Musical Arts degrees. Music Conservatories are best for students who want to devote all their college time focusing on their music degrees.
Many larger universities have extensive well-known music programs as well. Their conservatories are affiliated with the college. Sometimes, students can get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Music at these colleges. And often, they can pursue dual degrees. For example, they may apply for an additional non-music-related degree simultaneously. This type of music school is ideal for students who are primarily pursuing music but are interested in a non-music degree too.
A third type of music school is a college with a good music program but not specific undergraduate music degrees. Students at this type of university spend at least half of their time pursuing a non-music-related degree. The other half can be devoted to studying music. This type of music school is for students who want the best of both worlds. They can earn a degree in an area not related to music while still gaining advanced skills doing what they love.
Graduate Degrees in Music
After completing an undergraduate program in music, many students choose to pursue a graduate degree. There are many such programs available, and we’ve also listed a few of them in this review. These can include:
- Master of Arts in Music
- Master of Science in Music
- Master of Music
- Ph.D. in Music
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How To Choose the Right Music School for You
The right music school for you will depend on your personal aspirations. Think about what you love about music and consider your professional goals as a musician. Get clear about what you truly desire.
Once you are clear about your goals in the music industry, then you can start evaluating programs. Don’t assume anything. You may have a specific school in mind already. But as you will learn, there are many excellent music schools you may end up falling in love with.
Think about your career goals. Then narrow down your list to programs that provide you with the opportunities and skills to help you meet those goals. Here are a few questions to keep in mind when looking for the best college to study music:
- Does the school offer a specialized curriculum in the area of music that interests you?
- Are the instructors well-respected professionals in the field?
- Are there mentors available that are knowledgeable in your area of interest?
- Does the school have networking and job placement services?
- Is the school aesthetically pleasing to you? Do the facilities (particularly the conservatories) have what you need?
Best Music Schools Methodology
Tuition varies widely among colleges offering music degrees. However, the ranking methodology for this review is simple. The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state tuition costs per academic year. Note that the costs for out-of-state or online students may differ. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.
The schools are ordered from highest to lowest scores. All of the programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards. And each college has been verified as a non-profit institution.
Top Music Schools in the U.S.
| School | Tuition | Score |
| Curtis Institute of Music | $5,015 | 100 |
| Florida State University | $5,656 | 99.75 |
| California State University | $7,043 | 99.50 |
| University of North Carolina | $7,468 | 99.25 |
| Queens College | $7,538 | 99.00 |
| University of Central Oklahoma | $8,030 | 98.75 |
| College of William and Mary | $8,160 | 98.50 |
| Texas Woman’s University | $8,394 | 98.25 |
| Central Washington University | $8,685 | 98.00 |
| Sam Houston State University | $8,960 | 97.75 |
| University of Southern Mississippi | $9,204 | 97.50 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | $9,232 | 97.25 |
| University of Iowa | $9,942 | 97.00 |
| University of Maryland | $10,955 | 96.75 |
| University of North Texas | $11,090 | 96.50 |
| Indiana University | $11,333 | 96.25 |
| Arizona State University | $11,348 | 96.00 |
| Texas Tech University | $11,852 | 95.75 |
| Ohio State University | $11,936 | 95.50 |
| University of Oklahoma | $12,012 | 95.25 |
| University of Colorado | $12,496 | 95.00 |
| University of Cincinnati | $12,598 | 94.75 |
| James Madison University | $12,638 | 94.50 |
| University of California Los Angeles | $13,258 | 94.25 |
| Western Michigan University | $13,434 | 94.00 |
| University of Illinois | $15,442 | 93.75 |
| Rutgers University | $15,804 | 93.50 |
| University of Michigan | $16,178 | 93.25 |
| Temple University | $17,378 | 93.00 |
| Pennsylvania State University | $18,898 | 92.75 |
| Colburn School | $26,000 | 92.50 |
| Columbia College | $27,786 | 92.25 |
| VanderCook College of Music | $29,800 | 92.00 |
| Oklahoma City University | $32,744 | 91.75 |
| Rider University | $35,850 | 91.50 |
| Belmont University | $38,430 | 91.25 |
| University of Hartford | $44,885 | 91.00 |
| Bard College | $48,800 | 90.75 |
| San Francisco Conservatory of Music | $50,800 | 90.50 |
| Manhattan School of Music | $50,840 | 90.25 |
| The Juilliard School | $51,230 | 90.00 |
| DePauw Univesity | $53,896 | 89.75 |
| University of Denver | $54,819 | 89.50 |
| Princeton University | $56,010 | 89.25 |
| New York University | $56,500 | 89.00 |
| Syracuse University | $57,591 | 88.75 |
| Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University | $58,720 | 88.50 |
| Boston University | $59,816 | 88.25 |
| Northwestern University | $60,768 | 88.00 |
| University of Southern California | $61,503 | 87.75 |
Top 50 Best Music Schools Ranking
#1. Curtis Institute of Music
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Curtis Institute of Music has ranked very highly among top music universities in the U.S. Students at the Curtis Institute of Music can enroll in a Bachelor of Music or a Master of Music degree. Students in these music programs can specialize in a variety of areas. These include composition, keyboard, guitar, orchestral instruments, voice, liberal arts, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $5,015
Score: 100
#2. Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida
Ranked as one of the top music colleges in the U.S., Florida State University is next on our list. This college is home to an extensive offering of music programs. A few of these include programs in musicology, education, music theory, composition, and more. FSU is also home to a music therapy program aimed at teaching students how to use music to work with those with special needs. Additionally, the school houses three research centers dedicated to research in musical arts.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $5,656
Score: 99.75
#3. California State University
Northridge, California
California State University is number three on our rankings as one of the best music schools in the world. The college offers both liberal arts and professional degree music programs. And students at CSU can pursue several music degrees. These include Master of Music degrees, Bachelor of Music degrees, and more.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $7,043
Score: 99.50
#4. University of North Carolina
Greensboro, North Carolina
The University of North Carolina Greensboro also has one of the best music programs in the country. Through UNC’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, students can choose from bachelor of music, master’s of music, and doctoral music programs. The school also offers minors in music. Students can specialize their studies in composition, education, performance, and more. The master’s of music program at UNC Greensboro is also offered in a music theory format.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $7,468
Score: 99.25
#5. Queens College
Queens, New York
Queens College offers outstanding music programs at its Aaron Copland School of Music. Students can select from over ten different programs. A few of these include in jazz, theory, education, and more. Taking the Music Qualifying Exam is required for the music programs at Queens. The Aaron Copland school of music is a high-ranking program that is fifth on our list of the top music schools in the U.S.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $7,538
Score: 99.00
#6. University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, Oklahoma
The University of Central Oklahoma ranks as another top U.S. music school. The school boasts many amenities for its music students and is designated an All-Steinway School. Graduate degrees at UCO include composition, conducting, education, and more. Undergraduate music programs include jazz performance, musical theater, percussion performance, and several others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $8,030
Score: 98.75
#7. College of William and Mary
Williamsburg, Virginia
The College of William and Mary is also known as one of the top music universities in the U.S. Students can enroll in music theory, musicology, ethnomusicology, and more undergraduate programs. Nearly 25 percent of all undergraduates at the college take part in the music program in some fashion. Students don’t need to enroll in a music degree program to participate.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,160
Score: 98.50
#8. Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
Texas Woman’s University is home to a wide range of music degree programs. Students can choose from undergraduate programs in education, music therapy, and more. Graduate students can choose music performance degrees, music history, pedagogy, and others. Additionally, students who need financial assistance can apply for one of the school’s many generous scholarships.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $8,394
Score: 98.25
#9. Central Washington University
Ellensburg, Washington
Central Washington University also caught our attention as one of the best music schools. This Pacific Northwest college offers students a wide array of high-quality music education programs. Some of those include brass studies, vocal studies, woodwind studies, education, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $8,685
Score: 98.00
#10. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Sam Houston State University’s music school is another one of the top music schools in the U.S. Students at Sam Houston can choose from 14 different areas of study within the music school. Bachelor’s degrees include an education degree, a performance degree, and a degree in composition. Graduate students can choose from programs in choral conducting, collaborative piano, composition, and more. Sam Houston State University also offers a musical therapy program. Students can enroll in this program at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $8,960
Score: 97.75
#11. University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi is another top music college. USM offers music programs in a variety of areas. Graduate programs include music, education, and performance. Undergraduate programs include programs in music and education. Topics of study include band, orchestra, chorus, opera, musical theater, jazz, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $9,204
Score: 97.50
#12. Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Middle Tennessee State University offers a great selection of music majors and graduate programs in music. This is a large music department, with 34 full-time faculty members and 45 part-time members. Students can choose from six undergraduate programs. Concentrations include music industry, theory-composition, vocal performance, and more. Graduate students can select from specializations in conducting, jazz studies, performance, and others.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,232
Score: 97.25
#13. University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
The University of Iowa is widely considered a top music college in the U.S. It is home to the Rita Benton Music Library, which holds over 90,000 musical scores. And the library also has tens of thousands of books and other media items for students to use in their studies. Over two dozen music programs are offered across the school’s graduate and undergraduate offerings.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $9,942
Score: 97.00
#14. University of Maryland
College Park, Maryland
Next up is one of the best music schools in the U.S. The University of Maryland offers students a high-quality music education at affordable tuition costs. The school is located within The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. And the UMD School of Music has become well-known for its quality and wide range of music degree programs. Students can pursue music degrees at UMD at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $10,955
Score: 96.75
#15. University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
The University of North Texas is considered one of the state’s top music colleges. UNT hosts over 1,100 music performance events annually to provide students and the community with high-quality programming. Students at UNT can choose from Bachelor of Arts music and music history programs. The school also offers Bachelor of Music programs in composition, jazz studies, and more. The University of North Texas also offers several graduate programs in music.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $11,090
Score: 96.50
#16. Indiana University
Bloomington, Indiana
Indiana University’s Jacob’s School has earned a reputation as one of the best music schools in the U.S. The Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University is home to some of the best undergraduate and graduate music programs available. Indiana University offers a great range of music programs at the Jacobs School. These include composition, jazz studies, music education, sound production, and more. The Jabos School also provides a comprehensive selection of supplemental instruction and support. This includes private study sessions and regular concerts and performance opportunities.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $11,333
Score: 96.25
#17. Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State University is another one of the best music schools in the country. Students at ASU take classes at the Herberger Institute for Design and Arts School of Music. Currently, students can select from thirty-nine graduate and undergraduate music programs. Arizona State University is also home to an innovative music degree called the Music Therapy degree.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $11,348
Score: 96.00
#18. Texas Tech University
Lubbock, Texas
Texas Tech University offers students several high-quality music degree programs. They are through the J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts School of Music. Students at Texas Tech can choose from areas of study like brass, conducting, jazz, keyboard, musicology, and more. Programs are offered from the undergraduate level up to the doctorate level.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $11,852
Score: 95.75
#19. Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
Ohio State University is among the best music schools in the U.S. The school has about 450 students working through their music programs each year. Since the late 1800s, Ohio State University has offered its students the opportunity to gain a well-rounded education in music. Students can specialize in areas like composition, jazz studies, musicology, performance, and theory.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $11,936
Score: 95.50
#20. University of Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma
Students enrolled at the University of Oklahoma will know they are getting a music education at one of the top music colleges in the USA. Programs offered at OU include undergraduate degrees in music, musical arts, music education, and more. Graduate degree programs include choral conducting, musicology, theory, piano, voice, and others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $12,012
Score: 95.25
#21. University of Colorado
Boulder, Colorado
The University of Colorado offers over 30 music degree programs at the Boulder location. Music degrees include undergraduate programs in music, musicology, percussion performance, and more. In addition, graduate students can enroll in composition, choral conducting, orchestral conducting, and many others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $12,496
Score: 95.00
#22. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
The University of Cincinnati is one of the best major music schools in the U.S. Students enrolled at U.C. can select from many areas of music to study. A few of these include choral studies, theory, and commercial music production. Currently, students can choose from over two dozen music degrees. They range from Bachelor’s of Music to PhDs in Theory and Musicology.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $12,598
Score: 94.75
#23. James Madison University
Harrisonburg, Virginia
James Madison University is one of our top music schools in the U.S. Students can apply for one of many scholarships offered by the school. James Madison University hosts over 250 music performances annually for its student body and the community. Programs are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of the many music programs include composition, jazz, theory, musicology, and others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $12,638
Score: 94.50
#24. University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California
Another one of the most reputable music schools in the country is the University of California Los Angeles’ School of Music. Known as the Herb Alpert School of Music, it offers three different music majors to choose from. In addition, students enrolled in these programs can also pursue concentrations to differentiate their studies. Typically, the music school maintains a smaller student body, and enrollment hovers around 300 students at any given time.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $13,258
Score: 94.25
#25. Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, Michigan
The School of Music at Western Michigan University is another top music college in the U.S. WMU boasts many excellent features in its music programs. For example, over 800 music performance events take place each year at the school. Additionally, they have over 100 practice spaces for students. Undergraduate programs include education, music therapy, composition, jazz studies, and more. Graduate programs include conducting, music therapy, and others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $13,434
Score: 94.00
#26. University of Illinois
Champaign, Illinois
Students at the University of Illinois can attend one of the best music schools in the nation. The School of Music at U.I. offers a wide range of fantastic undergraduate and graduate music programs. Students can select from degrees in composition, performance, lyric theater, conducting, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $15,442
Score: 93.75
#27. Rutgers University
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Rutger’s Mason Gross School of Arts is home to Rutgers University’s music program. Music degree programs include musicology, jazz studies, theory, composition, and more. Notably, Rutgers has an excellent scholarship program for its students. This generous program awards up to $10,000 a year per student.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $15,804
Score: 93.50
#28. University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Students at the University of Michigan can enroll in the School of Music, Theater & Dance. This school makes our list as one of the best music schools in the world. Students can expect to get personalized attention with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Programs include music degrees in composition, education, theory, and more. Each year, the school hosts over 900 different performances.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $16,178
Score: 93.25
#29. Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Temple University has earned its place as a top music college. Temple offers a wide selection of undergraduate and graduate music degree programs. These are taught at the Boyer College of Music and Dance. They include instrumental studies, jazz studies, education, vocal arts, and more. Students can also select from several concentrations.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $17,378
Score: 93.00
#30. Pennsylvania State University
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University has earned a reputation as one of the best major music schools in the U.S. The School of Music at Penn State is part of the College of Arts and Architecture and is home to 50 full-time faculty members. Around 300 students make up the student body each year. Degrees offered include programs in bands, brass, choirs, composition, jazz studies, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition:$18,898
Score: 92.75
#31. Colburn School
Los Angeles, California
The Colburn School is widely thought of as one of the top music colleges in the world. Students attending Colburn can select from various music programs at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. The school also offers plenty of performance opportunities to students. In addition to high-quality instruction, Colburn runs an extensive music program for all ages, from K-12 to adult learners.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $26,000
Score: 92.50
#32. Columbia College
Chicago, Illinois
Columbia College makes our list as one of the best music schools in the United States. The smallest college in the Ivy League, Columbia boasts a top-notch music college. And they have a variety of undergraduate music programs. The school also offers a unique concentration in jazz. At the graduate level, Columbia College offers music theory, sound art, composition, and several other programs.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $27,786
Score: 92.25
#33. VanderCook College of Music
Chicago, Illinois
VanderCook College of Music is one of the best music schools in the country. Music programs at VanderCook focus on music teacher education. This school is an excellent option for students who wish to work as music educators. The VanderCook School of Music maintains a small student body. This allows better access and more one-on-one time with instructors. Students who earn a bachelor of music education degree from VanderCook can also apply for teacher licensure in the state of Illinois.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $29,800
Score: 92.00
#34. Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Students can enroll in Oklahoma City University’s Wanda L. Bass School of Music. This school is home to various music programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of these include Voice, Music Theater, Composition, and others. In addition, OCU hosts more than 250 music performance events year-round for their students and the community.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $32,744
Score: 91.75
#35. Rider University
Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Rider University’s Westminster College of the Arts is another excellent music college in the U.S. Students at Rider can select from a wide variety of music programs like musical theater, musical direction, music studies, and more. The school has seven choirs and puts on six major productions each year. Graduates of the program have gone on to T.V. spots, Broadway roles, and tours.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $35,850
Score: 91.50
#36. Belmont University
Nashville, Tennessee
Belmont University is considered one of the top music schools in the U.S. Belmont University’s School of Music is an All-Steinway School. This means it is completely outfitted with Steinway pianos and music equipment. Undergraduate students can pursue music degrees in a variety of areas. These include composition, education, performance, music theory, music therapy, and more. Graduate programs include Master of Music programs in several concentrations.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $38,430
Score: 91.25
#37. University of Hartford
West Hartford, Connecticut
Students at the University of Hartford attend one of the top music schools in the U.S. The school offers several different music programs at The Hartt School. Choose from composition, instrumental performance, contemporary music, jazz, and more. In addition, to support students in their appreciation of the arts, the University of Hartford hosts 400 performances each year.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $44,885
Score: 91.00
#38. Bard College Conservatory
New York, New York
Bard College Conservatory students interested in a music career can enroll in the school’s Conservatory of Music. Bard College offers most of its music programs in a double-major format that takes about five years to complete. A few of these include instrumental arts, piano, Chinese music and culture, and others. Students can also enroll in traditional four-year degrees from Bard College Conservatory.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $48,800
Score: 90.75
#39. San Francisco Conservatory of Music
San Francisco, California
The San Francisco Conservatory of Music is among the best music colleges in the nation. Students at the Conservatory enjoy many benefits, including a student-to-faculty ratio of about 6:1. Additionally, the school is known for its generous scholarships. And 98 percent of students enrolled have been awarded financial aid of some kind. The college offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in music.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $50,800
Score: 90.50
#40. Manhattan School of Music
New York, New York
The Manhattan School of Music is one of the best U.S. music schools. Founded over 100 years ago, the Manhattan School of Music has enjoyed a long history of turning out amazing musicians. Students enrolled at the Manhattan School of Music can choose from a wide range of music programs. Areas of study include orchestral performance, composition, performance, voice, and more.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $50,840
Score: 90.25
#41. The Juilliard School
New York, New York
Students at The Juilliard School attend one of the top music colleges in the world. Well-known for excellence in the arts, Juilliard enrolls about 500 students each year. This is a highly selective school located in the heart of Manhattan. As a result, Juilliard School students have access to many of the world’s greatest music venues and performance spaces. There are many programs to select from at Juilliard.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $51,230
Score: 90.00
Related: 50 Richest Universities in the World: University Endowment Rankings
#42. DePauw University
Greencastle, Indiana
DePauw University ranks as one of the best music schools in the U.S. DePauw University’s School of Music offers students many benefits to help bolster their music education. One of these perks is access to year-round concerts and performances. These music performance events are designed to inspire creativity and cultivate an appreciation of music. DePauw offers three music programs in 18 different concentrations.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $53,896
Score: 89.75
#43. University of Denver
Denver, Colorado
The University of Denver has earned its place in our top music school ranking. Students at the University can choose from undergraduate music programs in a variety of areas. These include composition, jazz studies, music, performance, and recording & production. Graduate programs are offered in conducting, performance, jazz studies, contemporary music, and others. In addition, over 300 music performances are hosted each year by the Lamont School of Music at Denver University.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $54,819
Score: 89.50
#44. Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey
An Ivy League institution, Princeton is also one of the best music schools in the country. Princeton University maintains a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio within its school of music. And students enrolled in the Department of Music can choose from a wide variety of music degrees. These can be found at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Additionally, the school maintains six jazz groups, three choruses, two orchestras, and a wind ensemble.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $56,010
Score: 89.25
#45. New York University
New York, New York
New York University’s Department of Music and Performing Arts has some of the best music programs in the nation. Students can choose among many undergraduate and graduate music programs. And the school even offers doctoral degrees in music. Areas of study include string, woodwind, brass, percussion, piano, and more. The school also has excellent music business and music technology programs.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $56,500
Score: 89.00
#46. Syracuse University
Syracuse, New York
Among our music school rankings, Syracuse University has scored top honors. Syracuse University students can select from many different music programs at the Setnor School. Founded in 1877, the school’s music department has a long history of providing high-quality music education. Bachelor’s programs include contemporary music, music education, performance, music industry, and more. Graduate programs include programs in audio arts, composition, conducting, voice pedagogy, and many others.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $57,591
Score: 88.75
#47. Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, Maryland
The Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University ranks highly among U.S. music schools. Over 250 years old, The Peabody Institute is one of the oldest music conservatories in the country. Over this time, the school has grown to receive universal acclaim and prestige. As a result, students enrolled in the music programs at the Peabody Institute have excellent access to instruction. Impressively, the school boasts a 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $58,720
Score: 88.50
#48. Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston University students can enroll in the College of Fine Arts to study music. Boston University boasts a 3:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This gives students unprecedented access to their professors and teachers. Some of the available music programs include opera, musicology, contemporary music, and more. The school also offers an online music education degree. Boston University’s School of Music hosts over 400 music performances each year. And it widely though to be one of the best music schools in the US.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $59,816
Score: 88.25
#49. Northwestern University
Evanston, Illinois
Students at Northwestern University can enroll in the Bienen School of Music. The quality of music programs offered at Bienen has made it one of the best music schools in the world. Students can select from many different areas of study. These include programs in brass, composition & music technology, conducting & ensembles, and more.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $60,768
Score: 88.00
#50. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
The University of Southern California has some of the top music programs in the US, dating back to 1884. And USC’s Thornton School of Music still remains a leader in music education. Programs offered include chamber music, choral and sacred music, vocal arts and opera, and many others. These music programs are spread across three divisions. This variety offers cross-genre experiences for an outstanding music education.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music
Tuition: $61,503
Score: 87.75
NPCO Staff
