Music at Montclair State University

Montclair State's music program stands out for what happens after graduation: while graduates start modestly at $28K, earnings jump 43% to nearly $40K by year four—well above the national median and outpacing 60% of New Jersey music programs. That earnings trajectory matters more than the starting number, especially when coupled with below-average debt loads that keep the financial burden manageable.

The $27,000 debt figure sits in the 25th percentile nationally, meaning three-quarters of music programs leave students with more debt. Combined with that first-year salary, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0—the entire debt load equals less than one year's starting salary. Given that 44% of students receive Pell grants, the school appears to be managing aid effectively for middle and lower-income families.

The gap between Montclair and the Rutgers schools ($40K vs. $37K by year four) narrows considerably over time, which is notable given Rutgers' higher selectivity. While music careers rarely promise quick wealth, this program delivers better-than-average outcomes at lower-than-average cost. For a family evaluating in-state options, that combination of manageable debt and solid earnings growth makes Montclair a financially sensible choice—particularly if your child can graduate without taking on additional private loans.