Music at University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Lafayette, LA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
21 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
21
Optimistic
21
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings $13,479/yr (-52% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (101,600 openings/yr)
ROI 9.3x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #190 of 240 Music programs

Program Analysis

Your financial outcomes from a music degree at UL Lafayette reflect the realities of pursuing a creative field in a regional market. While the program offers a solid foundation in performance, theory, and education, the local economy in Lafayette isn't a major hub for high-paying, full-time music industry positions. Many graduates build careers by combining multiple income sources: teaching private lessons, performing at local venues, working in churches, or contributing to community arts programs. The opportunities you'll find often require entrepreneurial spirit, as stable, salaried roles can be scarce compared to larger metropolitan areas. Consider how your passion for music can be paired with complementary skills, perhaps through a minor in business or a focus on music technology and production, to enhance your marketability. Building a robust professional network within the Louisiana arts scene will be crucial for uncovering opportunities and shaping your career path.

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 $375K $387K $377K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.0x 9.3x 9.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.9x 4.0x 3.9x
Probability of Field Employment 35% 31% 24%
DegreeOutlook Score 21 21 18

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,672
Out-of-state: $96,584 (4.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,472
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,115
22.4 months of Year 1 earnings

About University of Louisiana at Lafayette

A 89% acceptance rate means University of Louisiana at Lafayette is accessible to most applicants, with a mid-sized student body of 12,269 in Lafayette, LA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Louisiana at Lafayette →

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 University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 21/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Music at University of Louisiana at Lafayette?
At 21/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Music programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Music degree from University of Louisiana at Lafayette?
At $25,115 in median debt, graduates carry 22 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Music at University of Louisiana at Lafayette?
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 University of Louisiana at Lafayette a good choice for Music despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Louisiana at Lafayette'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 →