Berklee College of Music
The Vibe Check
The vibe at Berklee is electric and intensely creative, with the constant sound of music spilling out of practice rooms and rehearsal halls. It feels like being at the epicenter of the music world, surrounded by passionate, driven peers who are all honing their craft 24/7. The atmosphere is collaborative yet competitive, fueled by a shared love for music and performance.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Berklee's academic strength lies in its contemporary music programs, offering unrivaled training in performance, composition, and music production. The teaching quality is exceptional, with many faculty members being active, renowned music industry professionals. While research is not its primary focus, students have abundant opportunities for hands-on learning through state-of-the-art studios, ensembles, and global programs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Boston
Boston offers a rich college town experience with a vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods like Back Bay and the South End. Students enjoy exploring the city's many coffee shops, bookstores, and music venues, from small clubs to the legendary Symphony Hall. In warmer months, the Charles River Esplanade is a popular spot for running, biking, and relaxing.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($33,647):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Berklee's campus is located in the heart of Boston, a bustling urban environment. While the campus itself has security measures, students must be aware of their surroundings as they would in any major city.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unparalleled access to world-class faculty who are active industry professionals.
- ✓ Prime location in Boston provides access to internships, venues, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- ✓ Extensive alumni network and robust career services dedicated to the music and entertainment industry.
- ✓ Cutting-edge facilities and technology for music production, recording, and performance.
Cons
- ✗ Extremely high cost of attendance with limited need-based aid for some students.
- ✗ Intense, competitive atmosphere that can be stressful for some students.
- ✗ The focus is almost exclusively on music, with fewer traditional liberal arts offerings compared to a larger university.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Berklee is globally renowned as the premier institution for contemporary music education. It is famous for its programs in performance, music production and engineering, songwriting, and music business. The college is also known for its diverse and inclusive environment, embracing all genres of music from jazz and rock to hip-hop and electronic music.
Berklee has an acceptance rate of approximately 49.91%, making it a moderately selective school. However, admission is highly competitive for its world-renowned music programs. The admissions process places the most weight on your live audition and interview, which must demonstrate exceptional musical proficiency and potential.
Campus life is a non-stop whirlwind of music. The urban campus is compact and located in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood, so students are immersed in city life. Students spend their days in classes, rehearsals, and practice rooms, and their nights performing at various campus venues or exploring Boston's music and arts scene.
The value of a Berklee degree is a complex calculation. The cost is very high, and the 10-year median earnings for graduates are $33,647. However, for students who succeed in the highly competitive music industry, the specialized training, unparalleled network, and hands-on experience can be invaluable. It is worth the investment for those who are fully committed to a career in music and leverage the school's resources effectively.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 8,753
- In-State Tuition $50,270
- Zip Code 02215
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high sticker price and an average net price that nearly matches tuition, Berklee is a significant financial investment for any family. However, for a career-focused degree in the competitive music industry, the return on investment can be substantial for successful graduates. It's crucial to explore all scholarship and grant opportunities to offset costs, as the 10-year median earnings are lower than the national average for all college graduates.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.