Graduate Programs
Master of Music in Classical Performance
The MM in Classical Performance includes private instruction in the major instrument or voice, ensembles, studies in historical performance practice, and other courses geared to the needs of classical performers. A student may major in a standard orchestral, keyboard, or early-music instrument, in classical guitar, or in voice.
Master of Music in Conducting
The MM in Conducting prepares students for acceptance into doctoral programs in conducting (Doctor of Musical Arts) or for professional positions as conductors. Students enroll in one of three tracks: orchestral conducting, choral conducting, or wind-ensemble conducting.
Master of Music in Jazz Studies
The MM in Jazz Studies includes private instruction, jazz ensembles, studies in jazz harmony, improvisation, arranging, recording techniques, and other courses suited to the needs of today's jazz musician. Students may major in either jazz performance or jazz composition.
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Master of Music in Composition
The MM in Composition provides necessary training for classical composers. It can be a terminal degree, but it also prepares students to pursue doctoral study in composition (PhD or DMA).
Master of Arts in Musicology
The MA in Musicology prepares students to enter PhD programs in musicology. It also serves music educators and others who may need a master’s degree and have a special interest in musicology.
Master of Arts in Theory
The MA in Music Theory prepares students to enter PhD programs in music theory. It also serves music educators and others who may need a master’s degree and have a special interest in music theory.
Master of Science in Music Education (Leading to Professional Certification)
The MS in Education (Music) degree includes courses in advanced methods, conducting, and rehearsal techniques, as well as research in music education. It is designed to provide advanced professional training for those who already hold NYS Initial Teacher Certification and are teaching or seeking positions in choral, instrumental and/or general music in elementary and secondary schools. Electives are planned for the needs of the school music teacher or are drawn from other graduate music or education offerings. A limited number of students will be eligible to elect special concentrations in jazz studies or choral conducting or instrumental conducting each year. Courses are offered evenings and are geared to the schedule of the full-time teacher.
Music Education: Post-Baccalaureate - Advanced Certificate Program (Leading to Initial Certification)
The School of Music and Division of Education offer a non-degree Advanced Certificate program for prospective students who hold an undergraduate degree in music and wish to obtain New York State Initial Teacher Certification in Music, but lack preparation in education. The program typically takes two years to complete. Upon completion, students will be given the opportunity to continue with the regular MS in Music Education degree (see above) with some of the certification credits being applied to that degree.
Graduate Certificate and Advanced Diploma for Classical Performance
The Professional Studies and Artists Diploma Programs provide access to the finest music performance education. Ideal candidates may be:
- Classical instrumentalists/vocalists who wish to advance their study beyond the Master of Arts degree before entering a DMA program or professional positions.
- International students who possess advanced degrees in music from overseas institutions and are ready for advanced musical performance training in the United States, but do not have the required English language skills to enter an MA program.