Music at State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY · Public · Bachelor's Degree
24 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
25
Optimistic
24
Base Case
21
Pessimistic
Earnings $17,406/yr (-38% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (101,600 openings/yr)
ROI 11.8x earnings multiple (5.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #171 of 240 Music programs

Program Analysis

The financial data for Music at SUNY New Paltz reflects the inherent challenges and unique career paths within the performing arts. Many graduates from comprehensive music programs, especially outside major industry centers, often build careers through a mosaic of roles: teaching in local schools, performing in regional venues, or contributing to community arts initiatives. Your earnings potential here isn't typically driven by direct pipelines into major record labels or orchestras, but rather by entrepreneurial drive, networking within the broader arts ecosystem, and developing a diverse skill set. The program likely provides a strong foundation in theory and performance, but the onus is often on you to translate that into sustainable income. Therefore, actively seek internships, cultivate business acumen, and consider pairing your musical passion with a complementary field like education, sound engineering, or arts administration to broaden your professional opportunities.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Music graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $391K $401K $388K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.5x 11.8x 11.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.3x 5.4x 5.3x
Probability of Field Employment 35% 31% 24%
DegreeOutlook Score 25 24 21

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$34,096
Out-of-state: $73,736 (5.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$73,924
-117% less than sticker · See by income

About State University of New York at New Paltz

State University of New York at New Paltz's 59% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, with a mid-sized student body of 6,022 in New Paltz, NY.

See all programs and financial aid at State University of New York at New Paltz →

Top Career Paths

Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Sound engineering technicians $66,430/yr
Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education $64,580/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Music at Other Schools

Other Majors at State University of New York at New Paltz

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 24/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Music at State University of New York at New Paltz?
At 24/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Music programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Music at State University of New York at New Paltz?
The 47% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is State University of New York at New Paltz a good choice for Music despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If State University of New York at New Paltz's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →