Music at University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley's prestigious name doesn't translate to financial security for music graduates—at least not in the first year. With median earnings of just $14,166, this program ranks in the bottom 10th percentile among California music programs and bottom 5th percentile nationally. That's roughly half the state median and barely a third of what graduates earn at San Francisco State or The Master's University. Even for music, where modest early earnings are common, these numbers are strikingly low.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) is crucial context here. This likely reflects a selective, conservatory-style program where many graduates pursue performance careers, advanced degrees, or unpaid internships that depress first-year earnings. The relatively manageable $12,800 in debt is actually a bright spot—well below both state and national medians—giving graduates breathing room if they're building careers that pay off later. For comparison, the typical music graduate in California carries $22,560 in debt while earning $21,550.

If your child is serious about music and has the talent to gain admission to Berkeley's highly selective program, don't let these numbers alone derail that dream. However, understand that this path requires either family financial support, minimal living expenses, or a realistic plan for how income will grow beyond that difficult first year. The low debt helps, but $14,166 is tough to live on anywhere, especially in the Bay Area.