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The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings

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About The New England Conservatory of Music

Anchored by a storied concert hall, New England Conservatory is known for rigorous, hands-on study in classical performance, jazz, composition, and adventurous contemporary work. Students learn in close-knit studios, with plentiful practice rooms, ensemble spaces, recording labs, and a deep music library. Support stays practical: advising, wellness services, and a career office that helps turn artistry into real opportunities.

The culture blends high standards with camaraderie. You'll hear a quartet polishing a phrase, then a late-night jam down the hall. Recitals and student-run projects keep the lights warm. Boston adds fuel, with nearby orchestras, clubs, and arts groups offering gigs, mentoring, and outreach, plus parks, museums, and cafés when you need air. And traditions grow from the stage outward, with public concerts that draw the neighborhood. Notable alumni include Coretta Scott King and Cecil Taylor.

Key Institutional Details

Contact & Profile

Location: 290 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
Phone: +1 (617) 585-1100
Website: necmusic.edu
Unit ID: 167057

Academic & Institutional

Control: Private non-profit institution (tuition + donations)
Accreditation: NECHE
Length of Study: Programs under 2 years (e.g. certificate or diploma)
Calendar System: Semester system (two main terms per year)
Award Levels: Certificate (≥2 yrs), Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Doctorate (Research), Other Award
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral Universities: Very High Research 4-Year Focus - Law
Campus Setting: Located in a large city (population of 250,000 or more)
Tuition: In-state: $58,550 (Tuition $56,780 + Fee $1,770) · Out-of-state: $58,550 (Tuition $56,780 + Fee $1,770)
Student Profile:
Total Students: 784
Undergraduate: 371
Graduate/Other: 413
Male: 423 Female: 361
Applications:
Total Applicants: 959
Admitted: 410
Enrolled: 105
Acceptance: 42.8% Yield: 25.6%
Staff:
Total: 601 Full-time: 244 Part-time: 357

Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects

Explore degree programs offered at The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Massachusetts. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.

How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Massachusetts vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Arts (51)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0902 Music History, Literature, and Theory. (Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the historical evolution of music as a social and intellectual phenomenon, the development of musical instruments and techniques, and the analysis and criticism of musical literature. Includes instruction in music history research methods, aesthetic analysis of musical compositions, history of musical writing and notation, the development of musical instruments, the development of music theory, and the study of specific periods, cultural traditions, styles, and themes.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
50.0903 Music Performance, General. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that generally prepares individuals to master musical instruments and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers. Includes instruction on one or more specific instruments from various instrumental groupings.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2041 Music Directors and Composers $84,230 $87,720 +$3,490 (+4.1%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0904 Music Theory and Composition. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that focuses on the study of the principles of sound manipulation as applied to the creation of music, and the techniques of creating and arranging music. Includes instruction in aural theory, melody, counterpoint, complex harmony, modulation, chromatics, improvisation, progressions, musical writing, instrumentation, orchestration, electronic and computer applications, studies of specific musical styles, and development of original creative ability.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2041 Music Directors and Composers $84,230 $87,720 +$3,490 (+4.1%)
50.0905 Musicology and Ethnomusicology. (PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of the forms and methods of music art, and the functions of music, in Western and non-Western societies and cultures. Includes instruction in music theory, musicological research methods, and studies of specific cultural styles such as jazz, folk music, rock, ethnic musical traditions, and the music of non-Western cultures.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2041 Music Directors and Composers $84,230 $87,720 +$3,490 (+4.1%)
50.0906 Conducting. (BSc, PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that prepares individuals to master the art of leading bands, choirs, orchestras and other ensembles in performance, and related music leadership. Includes instruction in score analysis and arranging, rehearsal and performance leadership, music coaching, arrangement and performance planning, ensemble operations management, and applications to specific school or professional ensembles.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2041 Music Directors and Composers $84,230 $87,720 +$3,490 (+4.1%)
50.0907 Keyboard Instruments. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to master the piano, organ, or related keyboard instruments and performing art as solo, ensemble, and/or accompanist performers. Includes instruction in piano and keyboard pedagogy, ensemble playing, accompanying, service playing, repertoire, keyboard and pedal skills, recital, and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0908 Voice and Opera. (Assoc, Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to master the human voice and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers in concert, choir, opera, or other forms of singing. Includes instruction in voice pedagogy, diction, vocal physiology and exercise, expressive movement, repertoire, recital, and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2041 Music Directors and Composers $84,230 $87,720 +$3,490 (+4.1%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0910 Jazz/Jazz Studies. (Assoc, Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that prepares individuals to study and master the performance and composition of Jazz. Includes instruction in the history of Jazz and related musical styles such as the Blues, Jazz composition and theory, improvisation, Jazz instrument and ensemble performance, and related topics.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0911 Stringed Instruments. (Assoc, Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individual to master a stringed instrument and performing arts as solo, ensemble and/or accompanist performers. Includes instruction in playing and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0912 Music Pedagogy. (PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that prepares individuals to provide musical instruction and tutoring to clients in private and institutional settings. Includes instruction in music theory, music composition, mastery of one or more instruments, familiarity with various musical genres and styles, principles of music education, and client communications.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0914 Brass Instruments. (Assoc, Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to master a brass instrument and performing art as solo, ensemble, and/or accompanist performers. Includes instruction in playing and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0915 Woodwind Instruments. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, FPD, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to master a woodwind instrument and performing art as solo, ensemble, and/or accompanist performers. Includes instruction in playing and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A
50.0916 Percussion Instruments. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to master percussion instruments and performing art for a variety of musical settings, including orchestral, solo, chamber, commercial, or nontraditional. Includes instruction in playing and personal style development.

Graduate Career Earnings in Massachusetts

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Massachusetts Avg MA vs US
25-1121 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $102,240 $92,280 -$9,960 (-9.7%)
27-2042 Musicians and Singers N/A N/A N/A

Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs

Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students

Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$81,277
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$81,277
In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$58,550
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$58,550
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$19,287
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$500
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$2,940
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$2,940
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$58,550
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$58,550
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students

Financial Aid & Student Support

Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students

12%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$28,326
Avg. Loan
$6,499
Avg. Federal Loan
$5,500
Additional
Students with Any Grant
41
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
11
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
7
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$27,317
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Show more financial aid data

Student Success Metrics

Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.

78%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
94%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$12,465 – $64,792
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$12,465 (25th %) $64,792 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years: $34,483
Median Salary After 6 Years
$18,830
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$34,483
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.

Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes

Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.

3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
78.8%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
N/A
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$27,000
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
High 85.9%
Repayment by Dependency

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC)

How much does it cost to attend The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC)?

The annual tuition at The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) is $58,550 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $81,277 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $19,287 and books and supplies $500.

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.

What academic programs and degree levels does The New England Conservatory of Music offer?

The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) offers 57 academic programs across 1 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (≥2 yrs), Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Doctorate (Research), Other Award.

Most popular program areas include:

  • Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (51 programs)

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.

What is the acceptance rate for The New England Conservatory of Music?

The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) has an 42.8% acceptance rate and a 25.6% yield rate, making it highly selective.

Admission statistics breakdown:

  • Total applicants: 959
  • Students admitted: 410
  • Students enrolled: 105

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.

What financial aid and scholarships are available at The New England Conservatory of Music?

The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) provides financial aid to 12% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $28,326 and average loans of $6,499.

Average financial aid amounts by type:

  • Pell grants: $5,095
  • State/Local grants: $1,000
  • Institutional grants: $27,317
  • Federal loans: $5,500

The university supports 41 students with grants and 11 students with loans annually.

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.

What is the average salary for The New England Conservatory of Music graduates?

The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) graduates earn a median salary of $18,830 after 6 years and $34,483 after 10 years.

The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $12,465 (25th percentile) to $64,792 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $68,400 (90th percentile).

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.

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