Jay-Z-Backed LIU-Brooklyn Program Under Investigation Over Unexpected Student Debt

The Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment at LIU-Brooklyn, backed by Jay-Z’s entertainment company, is under investigation following allegations that students were left with unexpected and burdensome debt.

On May 5, the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) confirmed it had launched a probe into the music program.

The investigation, typically reserved for cases involving predatory business practices, comes after a Gothamist report revealed that students who were promised “Hope” scholarships and a “debt-free” education were instead saddled with balances ranging from $5,000 to nearly $40,000.

“While we can’t discuss details of ongoing investigations, we urge students who feel they’ve been harmed by Roc Nation LIU’s conduct to reach out to us,” said DCWP spokesperson Michael Lanza. “Consumers can call 311 or visit nyc.gov/Consumers to file a complaint.”

Launched in 2020, the Roc Nation School offered degree programs in music production, sports management, and vocal performance, among others. The Hope Scholarship, heavily promoted on LIU’s website, was initially advertised as guaranteeing a “debt-free education” for students with the highest financial need.

LIU later clarified that the scholarship covers only tuition, not additional costs like housing, food, or fees. In 2023, the school quietly altered the scholarship’s description to “tuition-free education,” a change that left some students feeling misled.

According to reports, at least four students have dropped out due to mounting debt. One former student, who was living in a homeless shelter when he applied to the program, left after accumulating $17,549 in unexpected charges.

Students have also raised other concerns. Some complained about a lack of access to the promised state-of-the-art recording studios, forcing them to build a makeshift studio on campus. Others criticized the program for promoting high-profile guest speakers such as Rihanna and DJ Khaled, appearances that never materialized.

LIU has not publicly commented on the investigation. Meanwhile, the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection continues to encourage affected students to come forward as it reviews the school’s practices.