Music at Appalachian State University

With only around two dozen graduates in the sample, these numbers come with significant uncertainty, but the picture they paint isn't encouraging. Appalachian State's music program produces first-year earnings of $23,304—below both the national median ($26,036) and the North Carolina average ($24,856). Among the state's 44 music programs, this lands squarely in the middle at the 40th percentile, far behind UNC Charlotte ($38,831) and even nearby Western Carolina ($26,135).

The $26,000 in debt equals exactly what's typical for music programs nationwide, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.12. That means graduates start out owing more than they'll earn in their first year—a tight squeeze for anyone trying to launch a music career. While music degrees rarely promise immediate financial returns, your child would be starting from a weaker position than peers at several other North Carolina schools charging similar amounts.

The small sample size could mean these numbers shift as more data comes in, but right now, families should recognize they're looking at below-average early earnings combined with standard debt loads. If your child is committed to music, programs like UNC Charlotte or Western Carolina appear to give graduates a better financial foundation. At minimum, understand that this degree likely means several years of financial strain after graduation—plan accordingly, and minimize borrowing wherever possible.