Master of Science in Music

The Master of Science in Music in 51动漫鈥檚 Boyer College of Music and Dance integrates advanced experience in applied music with research and problem-solving. Students in this music-generalist degree program connect research to creative work and critical analysis in a field of practice; receive graduate-level instruction; and聽expand upon or explore new areas of applied performance, delving beyond their undergraduate majors. No auditions are required for entry to this program. However, at the beginning of your first semester of matriculation, you'll complete an audition for placement in applied lessons and ensembles.

The Music MS curriculum is tailored so that you gain broad experience in

  • applied lessons in voice, instrumental or keyboard music, with opportunities to explore new or familiar performance genres in classical, contemporary commercial or jazz music;
  • areas of personal interest, including music education, music studies, music technology or musical theater; and
  • music history, music theory and research.

To further complement your graduate experience, the curriculum includes courses with Boyer College of Music and Dance students in other graduate disciplines, allowing you to collaborate on ideas and research topics with classmates.

The culminating event is a final project that emphasizes a student鈥檚 critical-thinking expertise and connects creative work, research and practice through a paper, presentation or performance. In addition, students complete a final performance for a panel of Boyer faculty members.

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Choosing between the MS and MA

Master of Science in Music students broaden their knowledge of applied music through a blend of research and practice at the graduate level. This full-time degree program connects research to creative work and problem-solving in a field of practice through core courses that investigate music analysis and performance.

The Master of Arts in Music is designed for students who plan to enter a doctoral program in music disciplines (composition, history and theory), those who wish to pursue teaching in higher education, or professional performers interested in teaching as a secondary area of interest. Students can earn the Music MA degree on a full- or part-time basis over two to four years.

Classes & Curriculum

In addition to core required courses and applied lessons, students have the opportunity to select elective courses from music, music studies, music education or other graduate departments.

Required and elective courses available include

  • Analytical Techniques,
  • Canon and Fugue,
  • Computer Music Studio,
  • Music in History,
  • Music Technology,
  • Music Theory,
  • Research in Music, and
  • Seminar in Jazz Arranging.

Learn more about the program requirements.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

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Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51动漫鈥檚 commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Science聽offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024鈥�2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,239.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,652.00 per credit

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BC-MUSC-MS

Additional Program Information

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