Music at Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
34
Optimistic
34
Base Case
23
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,666/yr (16% vs median)
AI Risk
High (47% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (101,600 openings/yr)
ROI
8.3x earnings multiple
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 | $495K | $495K | $460K |
| Earnings Multiple | 8.3x | 8.3x | 7.7x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 35% | 31% | 24% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 34 | 34 | 23 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$59,808
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
9.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$46,354
42% growth from Year 1
About Western Illinois University
A 75% acceptance rate means Western Illinois University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 4,939 students in Macomb, IL.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Illinois University →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
Compare & Explore
Music at Other Schools
Other Majors at Western Illinois University
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 34/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Music at Western Illinois University?
At 34/100, 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 Western Illinois University?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →