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List Of 12 Best Music Schools In The World 2025

By UniAcco
December 5, 2024 •
Best music schools in the world

Music is one such language that is spoken and understood by millions of people despite there being a language barrier across continents. Often, students look into making a career in this field, which brings happiness to all. However, not all colleges or universities around the world offer the quality education in music that the top ones might offer.

The following blog will help you understand the top music schools that offer world-class education. This blog will help you understand the average fees, location and type of music taught. 

Top 12 Music Schools In The World

Applying to the best music schools in the world that offer the top curriculum and practical education is rather important, as this is of a lifetime one. We have curated a list for you with universities that have great programmes, best faculty and top tier opportunities!

Music SchoolLocationAverage Tuition Fee (Annually)
Columbia College ChicagoChicago, Illinois$28,318
Berklee College of MusicBoston, Massachusetts$45,660
The Juilliard SchoolNew York City, USA$49,260
UCLA Herb Alpert School of MusicLos Angeles, USA$13,258 (CA residents), $42,994 (non-residents)
San Francisco Conservatory of MusicSan Francisco, USA$52,800 (both in-state and out-of-state)
Eastman School of MusicRochester, New York$58,240
Indiana University Jacobs School of MusicBloomington, Indiana, USA$37,600 (residents), $53,400 (non-residents)
Film Scoring Academy of EuropeSofia, Bulgaria€9,900 (online program)
NYU Steinhardt School New York City, USAAround $56,382
Yale School of MusicNew Haven, Connecticut, USAAround $38,800
Musicians InstituteHollywood, California, USA$24,000 (approx.)
Royal College of MusicLondon, UK£9,250 (UK students), £25,000 (international students)

1. Columbia College Chicago

One of the top music school in USA as well as across the world, this college prepares a student to the best of their ability. The students can expect complete understanding of music and its parameters. Check the details of the college in the table below:

CategoryDetails
College NameColumbia College Chicago
LocationChicago, Illinois, USA
Types Of Degrees GivenA student can pursue bachelor’s degrees in music, technical music composition as well as contemporary music, jazz, and also pursue other popular music
OpportunitiesStudents can perform as well as make a career in music production in top companies
Average Tuition Fee$28,318 per year

2. Berklee College of Music 

A student who attends Berklee College of Music will graduate to be a part of the elite level of musicians across the world. Find out more about the college and its offering here in this table:

CategoryDetails
College NameBerklee College of Music
LocationBoston, Massachusetts, USA
Types Of Degrees GivenA student can pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields like music production as well as performance. There are support degrees like composition, business, education, film scoring, as well as therapy.
OpportunitiesA student can make a career in performance arts and also get accreditation for backstage requirements. They can make a career in either!
ReputationThis college is well known for its  innovative and rather contemporary approach to music education. They have a list of Alumnis who are either Grammy Awards, Oscars, Emmys, Tonys or have other honors
Average Tuition Fee$45,660

3. The Juilliard School

A student who is looking at making a career in the music industry in the US and have a good reputation across the world must definitely apply to this music school. Often known for its competitive selection process, this forms the crème de la crème of music schools across the world! Know more about it here:

CategoryDetails
School NameThe Juilliard School
LocationNew York City, USA
Types Of Degrees GivenA prospective student can pass out with bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in several fields like music production as well as music performance in several instruments. There are support degrees like composition, historical performance, vocal arts, conducting, collaborative piano, and music education.
ReputationThis is one of the most well-known international music schools. It is also known for its prestigious conservatory in USA and around the world!
Average Tuition Fee$49,260 per year

4. UCLA Herb Alpert School

A student who goes to UCLA Herb Alpert School will graduate to be a part of the top level of musicians across the world. Find out more about the college and what it has to offer here in this table below:

CategoryDetails
School NameUCLA Herb Alpert School of Music
LocationLos Angeles, California, USA
Types Of Degrees GivenBachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in music composition, ethnomusicology, global jazz studies, music education, music history and industry, music industry, and music performance
OpportunitiesAccess to world-class faculty, facilities, events, and internship opportunities in the vibrant LA music scene
Tuition FeesEstimated at $13,258 for California residents and $42,994 for non-residents

5. The San Francisco Conservatory Of Music

One of the best schools in San Francisco and across the world, this school trains best out of the best. Students can learn music creation to performance in the school. Checj the complete details here:

CategoryDetails
School NameSan Francisco Conservatory of Music
LocationSan Francisco, California, USA
EstablishedSince 1917
Types Of Degrees GivenUndergraduate and graduate programs in classical music performance, composition, conducting, guitar, historical performance, keyboard studies, opera studies, roots jazz and American music, technology and applied composition, voice studies, and woodwind studies
Average Tuition Fees$52,800 for both in-state and out-of-state students

6. Eastman School of Music 

A student can learn about everything music in this school from the best educators in music at this school. Often known for its contemporary choice of music, this school will prepare you for the best:

CategoryDetails
School NameEastman School of Music
LocationRochester, New York, USA
ReputationPrestigious music school known for musical excellence
Types Of Degrees GivenUndergraduate and graduate degrees in performance, composition, jazz, music education, and music theory
DistinctionsHigh level of musical artistry, scholarship, leadership, and community involvement
OpportunitiesRich history, distinguished faculty, and diverse musical opportunities
Average Tuition FeeApproximately $58,240

7. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

Best music schools in the world

A student can learn about wide variety of music from a list of top-notch music educators from around the world. Check more about this top music school based in Indiana!

CategoryDetails
School NameIndiana University Jacobs School of Music
LocationBloomington, Indiana, USA
ReputationRenowned music conservatory
Types Of Degrees GivenMore than 200 degrees and programs in opera, ballet, orchestra, jazz, and musicology
FacultyLarge and diverse faculty of acclaimed musicians, scholars, and teachers
FacilitiesExtensive performance facilities, library collections, and community outreach
Average Tuition FeeEstimated at $37,600 for residents and $53,400 for non-residents

8. Film Scoring Academy of Europe

Often called as gifted school for musicians, this school hones special talent who preach music. The school helps craft any type of musical instrument and musical skill. Check more about the school here:

CategoryDetails
School NameFilm Scoring Academy of Europe
LocationSofia, Bulgaria
Types Of Degrees GivenGraduate and online programs in film and game scoring
FocusPractical experiences working with filmmakers and recording music with live orchestra
FacultyFaculty of experienced and award-winning composers and orchestrators
Additional OfferingsSummer programs on the Black Sea beach
Online Program Fee€9,900

9. NYU Steinhardt School 

The following table will help you understand most things about NYU Steinhardt School. A student can understand the various courses offered. Check them all here:

CategoryDetails
School NameNew York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
LocationNew York City, USA
ReputationOne of the best music schools in the world
Types Of Degrees GivenUndergraduate and graduate programs in music, art, media, psychology, and health
FacultyFaculty of distinguished scholars, artists, and practitioners
ApproachEmphasis on interdisciplinary learning and research
Additional BenefitsAccess to global network, cultural diversity, and urban opportunities
Average Tuition FeeApproximately $56,382

10. Yale School of Music

The Yale School of Music is one very prominent school which is a part of the 12 professional schools at the base of Yale University. The school offers about three graduate degrees. The name of the courses are Master of Music, Master of Musical Arts, and Doctor of Musical Arts. Check more about the school here:

CategoryDetails
School NameYale School of Music
LocationNew Haven, Connecticut, USA
AffiliationPart of Yale University
EstablishedFounded in 1894 as a separate school from Yale College
Types Of Degrees GivenGraduate-professional degrees and programs in performance, composition, conducting, and musicology
FacultyFaculty of distinguished musicians and scholars
OpportunitiesAccess to resources and opportunities of Yale University and its cultural partners
Average Tuition FeeApproximately $38,800

11. Musicians Institute

A student can learn about everything music in this school from the best educators in music at this school. This school is known for its hands-on training and professional development in the music industry. Check the full details here:

CategoryDetails
School NameMusicians Institute
LocationHollywood, California, USA
EstablishedFounded in 1977 as the Guitar Institute of Technology
ReputationOne of the best music schools in the world for aspiring musicians
Types Of Degrees GivenBachelor of music degrees and certificate programs in performance, composition, songwriting, production, and audio engineering
FacultyFaculty of experienced musicians and industry professionals
ApproachHands-on training and guidance
Additional BenefitsAccess to facilities, equipment, and connections in the music and entertainment industry
Average Tuition FeeApproximately $24,000

12. Royal College of Music

A student can learn about everything music in this school from the best educators in music at this school. Often known for its contemporary choice of music, this school will prepare you for the best:

CategoryDetails
School NameRoyal College of Music
LocationLondon, UK
EstablishedFounded in 1882 by a royal charter
Types Of Degrees GivenUndergraduate and postgraduate degrees and diplomas in performance, composition, conducting, musicology, and music education
FacultyFaculty of renowned musicians and scholars
FacilitiesAccess to facilities including the library, museum, studios, and concert halls
Average Tuition FeeEstimated at £9,250 for UK students and £25,000 for international students

The above list just walked you through some of the best universities and colleges to pursue music. Every college or institution has its own distinction that makes them different from the rest of the names in the world. A student who graduates from one of these universities is often equipped with everything they need to survive and thrive in the tough world of music. If you have the skills for this, apply to these universities right away and make your mark!

FAQs

Q1. What determines the best music school in the world?

Ans: A school is given this tag after they fit the bill for a great reputation, above average curriculum and a great list of opportunities after the completion of graduation.

Q2. Do these music schools offer financial aid to students?

Ans: Yes, a lot of schools have aids and financial support.

Q3. Can I send in my application to several music schools at the same time?

Ans: Yes, you can do that, however, your application to each of the schools must be unique to the eligibility criteria of that school.

Q4. Are there online music programs available from these top schools?

Ans: Some of these renowned music institutions offer online music courses and programs, providing flexibility for students who prefer remote learning.

Q5. What can a music school graduate expect?

Ans: A music school graduate can expect to make a career either as a performer or as a music support!

Thank you for reading about the “Best music schools in the world .” If you’re interested in exploring more articles on related topics, we recommend checking out the below articles:

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