VanderCook College of Music
About VanderCook College of Music
Overview, location, and what makes it stand out
VanderCook College of Music in Chicago exists to train music teachers, and has done nothing else since 1909. It is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and the only college in the country devoted solely to music education.
Founded
1909
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Students
292
Institution
Private
Known For
Key Stats
A quick snapshot of what matters most
Acceptance Rate
89.5%
Open admission
Graduation Rate
N/A
Not reported
Tuition
$30,910
Per year
Avg Net Price
$19,780
After financial aid
SAT Average
1025
Out of 1600
Median Earnings
$47,863
10 years after enrollment
Admissions
How competitive is getting in?
Selectivity
Moderate
Most students who apply are accepted
How to Apply
Test Policy
Test Optional
Application Fee
$35
Early
Mar 1
Regular
Aug 1
VanderCook College of Music accepts the majority of applicants at 89.5%. If you meet the basic requirements, this is an accessible option worth considering.
SAT Scores
1025/ 1600
Average: 1025 out of 1600
ACT Scores
17/ 36
Academics
How strong is the academic experience?
Student Success
N/A
Graduation rate not reported
Retention
Not reported
4-Year Grad
Not reported
6-Year Grad
Not reported
The federal survey collects no first-year retention cohort for this college.
Teaching Quality
4:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
Full-Time
11.5%
$/Student
$9.0K
Class Size
Small
Tuition & Costs
What will you actually pay?
Tuition & Fees
$30,910
Annual Tuition
Tuition and mandatory fees only, does not include housing or meals
Room & Board
No on-campus housing
Books & Supplies
$1,200
Total Cost of Attendance
$44,613
After Financial Aid
$19,780
Average Net Price
Average amount students actually pay after grants and scholarships
Net Price (family income <$30K)
$16,308
Receive Grants
26.3%
Take Loans
42.4%
The total cost of attendance runs about $44,613/yr, including $14,008 for room and board. After financial aid, the average student pays $19,780.
Financial Aid
Who gets aid and what happens after
Financial aid comes in two forms: grants and scholarships (free money you don't repay) and loans (borrowed money you pay back after graduating). Here's how students at VanderCook College of Music fund their education.
While in School
26.3%
Get Grants
Free money
42.4%
Take Loans
Must repay
$59,619
Median Family Income
After Graduation
$27,000
Median Debt at Graduation
Total federal loan balance when students graduate
$286/mo
Monthly Payment
0%
LowDefault Rate
The $27,000 median debt is above average, but graduates earn $48K within ten years. The numbers suggest the investment pays off for most students.
Student Body
Diversity, gender, and enrollment
From gender balance and racial diversity to age and background, here's a look at who attends VanderCook College of Music.
Gender
46.1%
Female
54%
Male
Female to Male Ratio
Race & Ethnicity
Enrollment
76
Undergraduate Students
Student Profile
216
Graduates
N/A
First-Gen
20 yrs
Avg Age
8.1%
Age 25+
The campus has a balanced gender split (46% women, 54% men).
Campus Life
What it's like to be a student here
Campus Setting
City: Large
Campus Quick Facts
76
Students
private
Institution
Small
Campus Size
N/A
Classification
What This College Offers
Semester calendar
Study Abroad
No
AP Credit
No
Teacher Cert
Yes
ROTC
No
Evening College
No
Online Programs
Yes
Job Placement
Yes
Career Counseling
Yes
After Graduation
What can you earn with this degree?
How much do graduates of VanderCook College of Musicearn, and what do they study? Here's a look at outcomes and popular programs.
Earnings Trajectory
$47,863
Median Earnings · 10 Years After
Popular Programs
Top 1Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
$43K
7 grads
1yr Earnings
Graduates earn about $46K six years out, growing to $48K by year ten. Above average, though your choice of major will be the biggest factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about VanderCook College of Music
What is the acceptance rate at VanderCook College of Music?▾
How much does VanderCook College of Music cost?▾
How much do VanderCook College of Music graduates earn?▾
Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard Some figures may reflect prior academic years. Our editorial team reviews and updates college profiles to ensure accuracy. If you notice outdated information, please let us know.