Music at University of Connecticut
Bachelor's Degree
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
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Connecticut graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 66th percentile of all music bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Music bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (17 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $31,336 | $40,283 | $25,000 | 0.80 |
| University of Hartford | $24,511 | $26,578 | $27,000 | 1.10 |
| National Median | $26,036 | — | $26,000 | 1.00 |
Other Music Programs in Connecticut
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Waterbury | $17,462 | $31,336 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point Groton | $17,462 | $31,336 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford Stamford | $17,472 | $31,336 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus Hartford | $17,452 | $31,336 | $25,000 |
| University of Hartford West Hartford | $47,647 | $24,511 | $27,000 |
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.