Manhattan School of Music
Acceptance rate
40.8%
2025
Peer median 61.3%
Tuition per year
$57,050
$75,100 with room and board
Peer median $40,478
Undergraduates
552
Student-faculty ratio 6:1
Peer median 9 : 1
Graduation rate
75.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 79.2%
Peer median 52.9%
“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Manhattan School of Music (MSM) is a prestigious institution located in the heart of New York City, known for its exceptional programs in music performance, composition, and education. Founded in 1917, MSM has cultivated a rich tradition of musical excellence and creativity, attracting talented students from around the globe. The school's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "In the Pursuit of Excellence," reflecting its commitment to fostering artistic growth and academic rigor. With a faculty comprised of distinguished musicians, educators, and industry professionals, students benefit from personalized mentorship and guidance, enhancing their skills and preparing them for successful careers in the arts.
The campus of the Manhattan School of Music is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including concert halls, practice rooms, and recording studios, providing students with an immersive learning environment. The school encourages a vibrant campus culture, where students engage in various performances, festivals, and masterclasses throughout the year. The diverse student body contributes to a rich cultural atmosphere, allowing for collaborations across different musical genres and styles. Graduates from MSM have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their fields, performing with renowned orchestras, teaching at prestigious institutions, and winning prestigious awards. As a cornerstone of New York City's cultural landscape, the Manhattan School of Music continues to inspire the next generation of musicians and artists.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
The data from Manhattan School of Music illustrates significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. From 2014 to 2024, tuition has risen sharply from $36,500 to $54,600 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. This increase of approximately 50% over a decade raises concerns about the affordability of higher education, especially in the arts, where students may face additional financial pressures due to the nature of their field.
Enrollment numbers, on the other hand, tell a different story. The undergraduate student population has shown a general increase from 377 in 2014 to 508 in 2023, suggesting that the institution remains appealing despite rising costs. However, the graduate student population has been fluctuating, indicating a possible challenge in attracting graduate students in certain years, particularly noticeable in 2021 when enrollment dipped to 442, the lowest in the data set.
Graduation rates provide further insight into the effectiveness of the education provided. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates reached a peak of 87.1% in 2019, before experiencing a decline in subsequent years, settling at around 69.9% in 2023. This decline may reflect the increased challenges faced by students, possibly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted educational experiences across the globe.
In summary, while the institution has managed to maintain and even increase undergraduate enrollment amidst rising tuition, the fluctuations in graduate enrollment and a decline in graduation rates could indicate underlying challenges that need to be addressed to ensure students' success and the institution's long-term viability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- James Gandre (President)
- Phone
- 2127492802
- Address
- 130 Claremont Avenue, New York, NY 10027
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 39.0%, women 32.5%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Manhattan School of Music
The admissions data from the Manhattan School of Music reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. In 2009, the acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 39% while for females, it was slightly higher at about 39%. This trend fluctuated over the years, with the lowest male acceptance rate dropping to around 27% in 2014. Interestingly, the female acceptance rate saw some increases, reaching as high as 53% in 2023.
The enrollment numbers also tell an intriguing story. In 2009, the school admitted 439 students, which is a stark contrast to the numbers seen in the following years. For instance, in 2022, the enrollment peaked at 121 but saw a significant rise to 154 in 2023. This indicates a potential increase in popularity or capacity at the school, likely influenced by its reputation and growing demand for music education.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission fluctuated over the years. The school faced the highest denial count in 2009 with 1,685 applicants turned away, which has decreased significantly in more recent years. This could reflect a shift in application strategies or demographic changes in prospective students.
Overall, the data highlights not only the competitive nature of admissions at the Manhattan School of Music but also the evolving landscape of music education. As the school adapts to changing trends, it continues to attract a diverse range of applicants, making it a pivotal institution in the world of music studies.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Data at Manhattan School of Music
The admissions data for the Manhattan School of Music over the years appears to lack specific information regarding standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. This absence of data raises questions about the consistency and transparency of the admissions process, particularly in a competitive field such as music where performance and academic excellence are both crucial.
In recent years, many institutions have moved towards a test-optional policy, reflecting a broader trend in higher education to consider a more holistic approach to admissions. This trend can particularly benefit applicants from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to showcase their artistic abilities and experiences rather than being solely judged by standardized test scores. However, without concrete data, it is challenging to assess how Manhattan School of Music aligns with these changing practices.
Additionally, the lack of detailed score distribution information, including the 25th and 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT, limits our understanding of the academic profile of admitted students. This information is critical for prospective students to gauge their competitiveness and prepare accordingly.
As we advance further into the 2020s, it will be interesting to see if the Manhattan School of Music updates its admissions data to reflect more contemporary practices and provide clearer insights into their selection criteria. This is essential not only for potential applicants but also for the institution's reputation in fostering transparency and equity in the admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
1,405 applicants in 2025, 40.8% admitted
573 admitted 832 not admitted Yield 25.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Keyboard Instruments · Master's54 (91% international)
- Voice and Opera · Master's41 (51% international)
- Stringed Instruments · Master's32 (66% international)
- Woodwind Instruments · Master's20 (50% international)
- Jazz/Jazz Studies · Master's19 (47% international)
- Music Theory and Composition · Master's16 (50% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Manhattan School of Music
The graduation data from the Manhattan School of Music for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various programs. Notably, the Musical Theatre program stands out with a total of 21 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a robust interest and enrollment in this field. This aligns with the growing popularity of musical theatre, which has seen a resurgence in mainstream media and theater productions, particularly following the pandemic when many turned to the arts for comfort and inspiration.
In contrast, the other performance arts disciplines, such as Voice and Opera, and various instrumental programs, show little to no graduation numbers at the bachelor's level. This indicates a potential underrepresentation of these fields or a shift in student interest towards more contemporary forms of performance, such as musical theatre.
At the master's and doctorate levels, the data reflects a modest engagement, particularly in areas such as Music Performance, General, which produced three master's graduates, and some doctoral completions in various fields. The presence of international students, particularly in doctoral programs, suggests that the school continues to attract global talent, although the numbers remain relatively low across most categories.
This data may highlight broader trends in the performing arts education landscape, where certain genres are gaining traction while others may need to reevaluate their appeal and recruitment strategies. As the industry evolves, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for institutions aiming to nurture the next generation of musicians and performers.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musical Theatre. | $31,407 | |||
| Music Performance, General. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Music Theory and Composition. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Conducting. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Keyboard Instruments. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Voice and Opera. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Jazz/Jazz Studies. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Stringed Instruments. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Brass Instruments. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Woodwind Instruments. | $16,652-$28,612 | |||
| Percussion Instruments. | $16,652-$28,612 |
Students
1,084 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 93.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 386
- First-year undergraduates 144
- Graduate students 532
- Transfers and others 22
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (552)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Manhattan School of Music in 2023
The student demographics at the Manhattan School of Music for 2023 reveal noteworthy insights into the composition of its student body. With a total of 1,115 students across different categories, the breakdown shows a healthy mix of undergraduate and graduate students.
Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 154 students, with a fairly balanced gender ratio of 48.1% male and 51.9% female. This gender balance is further reflected in the undergraduate juniors, where out of 332 students, 50.6% are male and 49.4% are female. Notably, the percentage of male students among the undergraduate transfer students is higher, with 64.7% being male. This may indicate a trend where male students are more likely to transfer into the program, possibly seeking specialized opportunities that the school offers.
In contrast, the graduate student demographic shows a predominance of female students, with 55.7% identifying as female compared to 44.3% male. This could suggest a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees in music, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equity in higher education.
The data also highlights the diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds of the student body, although specific details are less clear due to incomplete data for certain categories. The presence of different racial groups can enhance the cultural richness of the school's environment, fostering collaboration and creativity among students.
Overall, the 2023 demographics at the Manhattan School of Music reflect a progressive and inclusive atmosphere, aligning with contemporary educational values and trends in the arts. This diverse representation is crucial for nurturing future generations of musicians who can bring varied perspectives and experiences to the global music scene.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Manhattan School of Music
The student age composition at the Manhattan School of Music presents an intriguing snapshot of its demographic structure. The majority of students fall within the 18-24 age range, which reflects the institution's strong focus on attracting younger talent. Notably, there are 95 male and 106 female students aged 18-19, and this trend continues with 102 males and 107 females in the 20-21 category. This significant representation of young students underscores the school’s role as a nurturing ground for emerging artists.
In contrast, the data reveals a sharp decline in enrollment for students aged 25 and above. While there are 107 female students in the 25-29 age group, male representation dwindles to just 6. This disparity raises questions about the challenges older students may face in pursuing advanced studies in music, including financial constraints or the balancing of professional careers with education.
Furthermore, the data indicates a notable presence of graduate students, especially females aged 22-24, where the number reaches 172. This suggests that many students return to academia to refine their skills after gaining some professional experience, reflecting a trend in higher education where individuals seek advanced degrees to enhance their career prospects.
Overall, the age distribution at the Manhattan School of Music highlights both the vibrancy of its youthful population and the potential barriers faced by older students. Understanding these dynamics can provide valuable insights for institutions aiming to create more inclusive environments for learners of all ages.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
186 in 2025 · 46.3% in 2016
323 in 2025 · 58.7% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at Manhattan School of Music
The data from the Manhattan School of Music reflects a dynamic landscape for international students over nearly two decades. The undergraduate international student percentage has seen notable fluctuations, peaking at 46.34% in 2016 before experiencing a decline in the following years. The overall trend suggests that, despite some variations, the school has been relatively successful in attracting international talent, with figures hovering around 30% to 40% in recent years.
In contrast, the graduate programs have maintained a more consistent upward trajectory in international student enrollment. The percentage of international graduate students reached its highest point at 67.20% in 2019, indicating a strong appeal for the school's advanced programs among global talent. This is particularly significant given the increasing competition among music institutions worldwide to attract top-tier international students.
The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on enrollment figures, as seen in the slight drops in 2020 and 2021. However, the recovery in 2022 and 2023 suggests resilience in the institution's global outreach efforts, with both undergraduate and graduate percentages stabilizing around the mid-30s to low-60s.
Overall, the consistent presence of international students at the Manhattan School of Music enhances the cultural and artistic diversity of the institution, preparing its students for a global music landscape. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, the school’s commitment to fostering an international community remains crucial for its continued success and reputation in the arts education sector.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$75,100
- Undergraduate tuition
- $57,050
- Room and board
- $18,050
- Graduate tuition
- $57,050
Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$60.1M
Expenses$52.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
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Barnard CollegeNew York · 0.2 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 0.3 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 5.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 6.0 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 12.3 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 33.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 39.8 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 44.5 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 48.7 mi
U.S. News #2
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the Manhattan School of Music:
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Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard College is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
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Columbia University in the City of New York - With a rank of 12, Columbia University is one of the Ivy League schools, renowned for its strong emphasis on research and a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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New York University - Ranked 35th, NYU is a global university known for its dynamic urban campus and extensive offerings in arts, sciences, and professional fields.
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Fordham University - Fordham, ranked 89th, is a private Jesuit university that provides a strong liberal arts education, with a focus on ethical leadership and social justice.
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Yeshiva University - Also ranked 105, Yeshiva University combines Jewish education with a comprehensive secular curriculum, offering a unique academic environment.
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Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76th, this private research university specializes in engineering, technology, and management, providing a strong foundation for innovation.
These institutions contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding the Manhattan School of Music.
Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Manhattan School of Music
The crime statistics at the Manhattan School of Music over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. Starting with a rate of 6.43 in 2013, there appears to be a troubling peak in 2016, where the rate surged to 12.22. This trend suggests a growing concern for student safety during that period, potentially influenced by various social and environmental factors that universities across the country have been grappling with.
Interestingly, the following years saw a rise in crime rates, peaking at 15.31 in 2017 before slightly declining in subsequent years. The data indicates a significant drop in the crime rate in 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activities and potentially fewer opportunities for crime. As students returned to campus life, crime rates remained relatively stable in the following years, suggesting a form of normalization or adaptation within the campus community.
Looking at specific types of offenses, the data highlights the prevalence of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents that are common in college settings. These trends can reflect broader societal issues regarding substance use among young adults.
The fluctuation in crime rates emphasizes the importance of ongoing safety measures and awareness programs on college campuses. Institutions must remain vigilant and responsive to changing circumstances to ensure the safety and well-being of their students. For further insights on crime rates and calculations, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 63Notable alumni of Manhattan School of Music include Charlie Puth (Singer-songwriter and record producer), Herbie Hancock (American jazz pianist and composer) and Regina Spektor (Soviet-born singer-songwriter and pianist).
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Charlie Puth 1991–
Singer-songwriter and record producer
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Herbie Hancock 1940–
American jazz pianist and composer
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Regina Spektor 1980–
Soviet-born singer-songwriter and pianist
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Angelo Badalamenti 1937–2022
Composer known for David Lynch film scores
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Max Roach 1924–2007
Jazz drummer and composer, bebop pioneer
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Bob McGrath 1932–2022
Actor known for Bob on Sesame Street
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Ahmed Best 1973–
Actor who voiced Jar Jar Binks in Star Wars
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Harry Connick Jr. 1967–
Singer, pianist and actor
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Marcus Paus 1979–
Norwegian composer
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.