Return to: Programs by College/School

Learning Outcomes

• Candidates will demonstrate the ability to perform musical works representative of a wide array of music styles and genres, and do so in a manner commensurate with masters-degree level musicianship. 
• Candidates will be able to demonstrate masters-level knowledge of music history, music theory, and compositional styles by identifying, describing, comparing, and contrasting musical works from the Antiquity through modern times.
• Candidates will be able to demonstrate masters-level knowledge of their primary instrument or voice (including instrument history, repertoire, notable composers, and renowned pedagogues) by identifying, describing, comparing, and contrasting these elements in relation to contemporary practice.

Admission

The general requirements for admission are: completion of an undergraduate degree in music (or the equivalent); evidence of an ability to pursue doctoral study in the desired area (see information online); and fulfillment of the general requirements for admission to The Graduate School, including the submission of three recommendations. Applicants whose native language is not English are also required to submit a satisfactory score on the TOEFL or the IELTS Intl. Academic Course Type 2 exam. Normally, the minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL is 88 (internet-based) or 570 (paper-based). The minimum acceptable overall band score on the IELTS Intl. Academic Course Type 2 exam is 6.5. Applicants for the Master of Music degree in composition, conducting, jazz studies, opera theatre, or performance and whose TOEFL score is below the normal minimum will be considered on an individual basis for conditional admission. Such applicants must demonstrate exceptional abilities in the major area and evidence through past academic or professional activities strong promise for future professional success. Admission decisions are based upon the applicant’s total application portfolio, with particular weight given to the audition (for those applying in the area of conducting, jazz performance, performance, or piano pedagogy), composing experience (jazz composition), or research/writing abilities (thesis track in piano pedagogy).

Degree Requirements (32 Hours)

Prior to taking any graduate music study, all master’s students must take the Graduate Music Diagnostic Examination, and, early in their studies, complete all deficiencies and required courses resulting from the exam. Degree candidates must complete a prescribed program of 32 hours of graduate work and successfully pass an oral comprehensive examination. In addition, candidates in conducting or performance must present one full recital, and those whose performance medium is an orchestral instrument must also perform a concerto; candidates in composition must complete a thesis consisting of a musical work of major proportions; candidates in music history or music theory must complete a written thesis; and candidates in piano pedagogy must present a solo recital or complete a written thesis. Specific program requirements are listed online.