Analysis
Music programs in Texas show remarkable range, with top programs producing first-year earnings near $60,000 while the statewide typical figure sits at $47,010. Concordia's estimated outcomes align with that Texas median—a figure drawn from 21 similar programs across the state since this school's own graduate sample is too small for the DOE to report. With an estimated $23,500 in debt, the math works out to a manageable half-year of first-year income, which compares favorably to the national music program landscape where graduates typically earn just $26,036 while carrying slightly more debt.
The gap between Concordia's peer-program estimates and the state's top performers is substantial—roughly $10,000-$13,000 annually. That difference matters for a creative field where many graduates pursue performance, education, or freelance work. Texas music programs clearly vary in their career placement effectiveness, and without Concordia's actual outcomes, there's legitimate uncertainty about where this specific program lands on that spectrum.
The debt level appears reasonable for a bachelor's degree, but the real question is whether this program connects graduates to the higher-earning opportunities that other Texas music programs demonstrate are possible. Before committing, your family should investigate what distinguishes the top-performing programs—whether it's location advantages in major metro areas, stronger industry connections, or different curricular emphases—and assess honestly whether Concordia offers comparable pathways.
Where Concordia University Texas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all music bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Music bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (59 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,690 | $47,010* | — | $23,500* | — | |
| $9,228 | $59,926* | $45,889 | $28,000* | 0.47 | |
| $9,859 | $56,373* | $55,090 | $20,920* | 0.37 | |
| $9,892 | $56,072* | $53,695 | $31,000* | 0.55 | |
| $9,744 | $56,062* | — | $14,612* | 0.26 | |
| $9,711 | $52,799* | $55,639 | $26,000* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | — | $26,036* | — | $26,000* | 1.00 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with music graduates
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Music Directors and Composers
Sound Engineering Technicians
Musicians and Singers
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Concordia University Texas, approximately 40% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 21 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.