Overview
Founded in 1945 by Lawrence Berk as Schillinger House, Berklee College of Music pioneered the teaching of jazz and American popular music at a time when conservatories focused almost exclusively on classical traditions. It became Berklee College of Music in 1954 and has since grown into the largest independent music college in the world, renowned for its contemporary approach to music education, songwriting, production, and performance. The college has produced an extraordinary number of Grammy Award winners among its alumni and faculty, cementing its reputation as a launching pad for professional musicians, composers, and industry professionals.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1945 |
| Total students | 7,200 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 56% |
| Graduation rate | 63% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $47,900 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $47,900 |
| Room & board | $17,700 |
| Average financial aid | $20,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.3 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Top Programs
- Music Production and Engineering
- Songwriting
- Film Scoring
- Performance
- Music Business/Management
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.