Mar 28, 2024  
University Catalog 2023-2024 
    
University Catalog 2023-2024

Music, M.A.

Location(s): Main Campus


A total of 30 semester units is required for the degree, of which are 17 units core courses and 13 units electives, including at least 15 units in 5000-level music courses. Placement in Applied Music is by audition. The program concludes with a thesis or project.

Graduate students who receive individual studio lessons as part of their degree program are required to concurrently enroll in an approved ensemble for each term of studio lesson enrollment in order to receive individual studio lessons, a graduate student is expected to maintain full-time enrollment. Students enrolled in the Master of Arts degree program must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better in their music courses.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Music, students will demonstrate the following:

  1. The ability to independently research musical issues and formulate artistic and/or scholarly conclusions.
  2. Critical thinking and effective written and verbal communication skills in the context of musical discourse.
  3. The ability to make effective artistic and intellectual musical judgments.
  4. A broad knowledge of repertoire and historical performance practices appropriate to the specific field of study.
  5. A level of intellectual and musical independence that results in the completion of a thesis or project.

Learning Outcomes  Roadmap (2022)   

Requirements for the Degree (30 units)


Core Courses (17 units)


I. Research Techniques Course (3 units)


IV. Applied Music & Performance Courses (3 units)


Complete 3 units in total. Advisor approval is required for Group B courses.

V. Thesis or Project Courses (2 units)


Students are encouraged to request a project director from their area early in their program of study to ensure that progress toward the final project is accomplished in a timely manner. Students should consult the Department of Music information on procedures and required deadlines.

Electives (13 units)