Music at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis music program tells an unusual story: graduates start at $27,353—barely above the poverty line—but see their earnings jump 50% by year four to reach $41,074. That four-year figure outpaces every Tennessee music program except Tennessee Tech, suggesting the initial struggles give way to stronger career traction than most alternatives. However, Memphis graduates still start below the state median of $27,470, landing in just the 40th percentile among Tennessee music programs.

The $22,060 debt load provides a silver lining—it's lower than both the national and state medians for music degrees, keeping the initial debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.81. This matters because music graduates often piece together income from multiple sources early in their careers. Starting with less debt means more flexibility to take teaching gigs, performance opportunities, or studio work without immediate financial pressure.

For families, the decision hinges on whether your child can weather those lean first years. The earnings trajectory is genuinely promising compared to peer institutions, but that first year at $27,353 means financial support or side income will likely be necessary. If your student has the resilience and the program's reputation opens doors (that 50% earnings jump suggests it does), this becomes a reasonable bet for a music career—just plan for a rocky start.