Music at University of Minnesota-Duluth

Music graduates from UMN-Duluth earn about $32,000 in their first year—roughly $6,000 more than the typical music graduate in Minnesota and well above the national median. While the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift year to year, the program currently ranks in the 60th percentile among Minnesota music programs and 68th percentile nationally. That's notable positioning for a regional campus, particularly when you consider the debt load runs slightly below both state and national norms at $24,427.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77 means graduates owe about nine months of their first-year salary—manageable territory for a music degree, where career trajectories often involve cobbling together multiple income streams early on. With an 82% admission rate, this isn't a highly selective conservatory-style program, but the combination of accessible entry and above-average early earnings suggests solid training without the premium price tag or cutthroat competition.

For Minnesota families, UMN-Duluth appears to offer better financial positioning than even the flagship Twin Cities campus for music graduates. Just remember that with such a small cohort, one exceptional class or one struggling year could significantly move these numbers. If your student is committed to music and wants to stay in-state, this program merits serious consideration—but verify current class sizes and faculty stability before committing.