Salaries at Berklee

At Berklee College of Music, located in Boston, Massachusetts, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by factors such as role, experience, academic rank, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary between academic positions, such as professors in music performance or production, and administrative roles, like admissions or student affairs. While Berklee does not publicly publish transparent salary bands or detailed compensation data on its official website, some information can be inferred from industry standards for specialized music and arts institutions, as well as job postings and employee-reported data on external platforms. Compensation may also reflect the high cost of living in Boston, which can influence salary structures to remain competitive within the region.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $60,000–$80,000 USD per year, depending on department and years of teaching experience. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential for growth based on tenure track progression.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $80,000–$100,000 USD annually, often tied to seniority, published works, or contributions to the music industry. Additional grants or performance bonuses may apply.
• Full Professor: Salaries generally range from $100,000–$130,000 USD per year, reflecting extensive experience, leadership in academic programs, and notable achievements in music or research.
• Administrative Director (e.g., Admissions or Facilities): Compensation typically falls between $70,000–$110,000 USD annually, influenced by the scope of responsibilities and years of service.

Salaries at Berklee College of Music appear to be competitive within the niche of performing arts education, though they may not always match those at larger research universities due to the specialized nature of the institution. Progression often depends on achieving tenure for academic roles or taking on leadership positions for administrative staff. As a private institution, Berklee’s compensation is not tied to public sector benchmarking, and exact figures can vary widely based on individual negotiations and market demand for specific skills, such as expertise in emerging music technologies. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, prospective employees are encouraged to consult directly with the institution during the hiring process.