Berklee College of Music
Boston, United States • Founded 1945
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1945, the Berklee College of Music is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Boston (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), Massachusetts.
This institution also has a branch campus in Valencia and Abu Dhabi. Officially accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Berklee College of Music (BCM) is a medium-sized coeducational US higher education institution.
Berklee College of Music (BCM) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study. This 79-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
The acceptance rate range is 50-59% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. BCM also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
For visits or applications to Berklee College of Music, location and primary contact details are below. Open days are typically announced via social channels — follow them to receive event notifications.
Academic Details
These figures give a quick read on Berklee College of Music's scale, staffing levels, and academic standing. Use them to ground decisions about programme fit and institutional capacity.
Academic Structures
Below is how Berklee College of Music is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units that house its programmes. Larger institutions often run multi-faculty divisions to coordinate cross-disciplinary work.
Unit 5 items
- Berklee College of Music
- Boston Conservatory at Berklee
- Professional Education Department
- Professional Performance Department
- Professional Writing and Music Technology Division
Programs Offered
Search and filter Berklee College of Music's available programmes by degree level. The list reflects the institution's current catalogue and may not include programmes that are paused or pending approval.
22 programmes on record. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 9 programmes
Master's Degree 8 programmes
Certificate 3 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes
How to apply to Berklee College of Music
Application guidance for Berklee College of Music, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.
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1
Identify the right programme
Berklee College of Music's catalogue includes 22 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Berklee College of Music's admissions process.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit via the institution
Submit your completed application through Berklee College of Music's official website at www.berklee.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (617) 266 1400. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Berklee College of Music
Common questions about Berklee College of Music answered concisely, with each answer grounded in the institution's published data.
How old is Berklee College of Music?
The institution opened in 1945 (approximately 81 years ago).
What city is Berklee College of Music in?
Berklee College of Music operates from Boston, United States.
Is Berklee College of Music a public or private institution?
It is a private higher-education institution.
How big is Berklee College of Music's student body?
Berklee College of Music serves approximately 7,000-7,999 students.
How is Berklee College of Music organised academically?
Berklee College of Music is organised into 5 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Berklee College of Music?
The institution holds recognition from New England Commission of Higher Education.
How do I find Berklee College of Music online?
The institution's website is www.berklee.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
These are the most highly ranked universities in the United States. Putting Berklee College of Music alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.
Faculties at nearby universities
Looking at higher education options close to Berklee College of Music? These nearby campuses share similar academic structures and may suit students prioritising proximity to home or family. Regional ties also affect access to internships and local employer networks.
Where Else to Study Music
Industry partnership exclusives on Music programmes vary — some the United States institutions hold sponsored chairs, others run rotating industry guest-teaching arrangements.
Universities Compared with Berklee College of Music
Cross-peer scholarship reciprocity exists in some systems where peer institutions accept each other's scholarship students. Worth checking for Berklee College of Music if location flexibility matters.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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