Manhattan School of Music
Manhattan School of Music has an acceptance rate of 40.8%, annual tuition of $57,050, average net price of $51,754, and a national rank of #1605 (Grade C+), with a 78.3% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 539 undergraduates, and median earnings of $30,305 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Manhattan School of Music is a private nonprofit university in New York, NY. Students most often pursue Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft and Music.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, and 93.0% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 13.7%, roughly 36.2 points below typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Manhattan School of Music Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Manhattan School of Music graduates 78.3% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 76.2% and keeps 93.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Manhattan School of Music's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $57,050 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,050 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,600 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $77,703 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 12.0% of Manhattan School of Music students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $31,392 to $56,540 depending on family income. Use Manhattan School of Music's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $48,042/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $56,540/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $30,305
- 10-Year Median Earnings $26,878
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $26,994
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 65.5%
- Employment Rate 70.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Manhattan School of Music graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Manhattan School of Music vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Manhattan School of Music's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Manhattan School of Music's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Manhattan School of Music graduates earn $30,305 median, the 13.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 539
- Full-Time Students 100.0%
- Part-Time Students 0.0%
- Retention Rate 93.0%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 78.3%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 76.2%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 6:1
How to Get Into Manhattan School of Music
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Manhattan School of Music requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 40.8%, Manhattan School of Music is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Manhattan School of Music accepts 40.8% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Manhattan School of Music undergraduates. Music and Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft draw the most students.
- Music 71.6%
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 28.4%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft $29,400
- 2. Music $28,896
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Music (Master's Degree) $35,220
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft grads earn $29,400—2% more than Music ($28,896). Graduate: Music programs lead with $35,220 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Manhattan School of Music. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Music (Master's Degree, 176 graduates)
- Music (Bachelor's Degree, 96 graduates)
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft (Bachelor's Degree, 38 graduates)
- Music (Graduate/Professional Certificate, 36 graduates)
- Music (Doctoral Degree, 14 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Music
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Online Master's Degrees (1 program)▼
- Music
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)▼
- Music
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)▼
- Music
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)▼
- Music
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 539
- Full-Time Students 100.0%
- Part-Time Students 0.0%
- Male Students 49.7%
- Female Students 50.3%
- Caucasian 36.9%
- Asian 8.0%
- Hispanic 11.1%
- Black 3.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients 12.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Manhattan School of Music's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Manhattan School of Music's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Manhattan School of Music support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Manhattan School of Music, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Manhattan School of Music has a diverse student body, with 36.9% identifying as White. About 12.0% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Manhattan School of Music support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Manhattan School of Music, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Manhattan School of Music offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 13.7% ROI. Ranked #1605 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $51,754 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $30,305 median earnings. With 78.3% graduating within 150% of normal time and 93.0% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Manhattan School of Music's Positioning
With a C+ grade and #1605 ranking, Manhattan School of Music competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $51,754 annually, Manhattan School of Music charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 93.0% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $36,228 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 13.7% ROI and $30,305 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $41,754+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Manhattan School of Music ranks #1605 of 1947 institutions, with 1764 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 78.3% graduation rate sits 15.8 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 93.0% first-year retention is 16.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 13.7% return on investment is 36.2 points below the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $30,305 run about 50% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $51,754 is roughly $31,675 higher than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 6:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 93.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 70.0% employment rate within three years sits 1.8 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $51,754 is about $31,675 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 12.0% trails the national share by 22.5 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Manhattan School of Music is a private nonprofit university based in New York, NY and earns a C+ overall grade. It stands at #1605 among 1962 schools Completion earns A, Support A, Career Outcomes C-, and Affordability D-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 93.0% retention, 78.3% graduation within 150% of normal time, and 76.2% earning an award within eight years. Return on investment currently measures 13.7% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $51,754 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $77,703.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $25,949 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $26,994 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 12.0% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $30,305 at the median. Compared with the national median, that's 50% lower.
The three-year employment rate is close to 70.0%.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 13.7%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
40.8% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Manhattan School of Music admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Similar Schools
Institutions with similar academic profiles, selectivity, and outcomes
Nearby Schools
Other campuses you might consider
Other New York campuses you might consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manhattan School of Music's acceptance rate?
Manhattan School of Music's acceptance rate is 40.8%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Manhattan School of Music cost?
At Manhattan School of Music, listed tuition and fees are $57,050 per year, and the average net price after aid is $51,754. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Manhattan School of Music's ranking?
Manhattan School of Music ranks #1605 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Manhattan School of Music's graduation rate?
At Manhattan School of Music, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 78.3% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 76.2%, and first-year retention is 93.0%.
What are Manhattan School of Music's job outcomes?
Graduates of Manhattan School of Music report median earnings of $30,305 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Manhattan School of Music's student population?
Manhattan School of Music enrolls about 539 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address New York, NY 10027
- Website www.msmnyc.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$34.8M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate4.9%