Analysis
UConn's music program graduates earn $31,336 in their first year—about $5,300 more than the national median for music degrees and right at Connecticut's median. With debt of $25,000, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.80, meaning they owe less than a year's salary. The 29% earnings growth to $40,283 by year four suggests meaningful career progression, though keep in mind these figures come from a small sample of fewer than 30 graduates, which can make the numbers less reliable.
What makes this program potentially more attractive is its broader institutional strength. UConn's 54% admission rate and average SAT of 1338 indicate a selective university where music students benefit from the overall academic environment and alumni network of a flagship state institution. That context matters when thinking about career opportunities beyond performance—arts administration, education, or pivoting to other fields entirely.
The trade-off here is typical for music: you're not chasing high earnings, but UConn's graduates do better than most music majors nationally (66th percentile). If your child is committed to music and wants a solid university experience, this works. The debt is reasonable enough that it won't derail other life goals, even on arts-sector salaries. Just remember that small sample caveat—these outcomes could shift with more data.
Where University of Connecticut Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all music bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut | $31,336 | $40,283 | +29% |
| University of New Haven | $22,171 | $42,021 | +90% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $31,336 | $40,283 | +29% |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $31,336 | $40,283 | +29% |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $31,336 | $40,283 | +29% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Music bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,366 | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 | |
| $17,462 | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 | |
| $17,462 | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 | |
| $17,472 | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 | |
| $17,452 | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 | |
| $47,647 | $24,511 | $26,578 | $27,000 | 1.10 | |
| 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 University of Connecticut, approximately 24% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 18 graduates with reported earnings and 45 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.