A Wealth of Diversity

In recent columns, I’ve showcased the range of Berklee’s collaborative work abroad with alumni, partner institutions, and young musicians to bring the college to the world. We also believe that it’s important to relay the impact of our global outreach in numerical terms. In reviewing our work over the past six years, the recruitment and branding efforts of Berklee’s offices of Admissions and International Programs have had positive effects on enrollment. This directly influences the enrichment of the music community on campus through our international student population and offers students potential opportunities when they graduate.

In the fall of 2006, 22 percent of the student body came from outside the United States. This number was considerably lower than our international enrollment in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Over the past few years, the concerted efforts of the Office of Admissions and International Programs have helped us increase the number of international students and expand the list of countries represented in the student body. 

In 2006, Berklee held education and recruitment events in some 16 locations abroad. In 2012, we went to about 35 countries. More than 29 percent of the enrollment for the fall 2012 class came from 96 different countries. The top five countries from which our international student population is drawn: Korea (253), Canada (134), Japan (85), Mexico (55) and Italy (47). Up-and-coming countries include China (42), Colombia (41), Brazil (40), and Singapore (32).

This wealth of cultural diversity is a primary factor in Berklee’s reputation as a unique place to study. The diverse student population offers students a rich musical experience and creates possibilities for exploring careers in music around the world.