HOGESCHOOL VOOR DE KUNSTEN UTRECHT (HKU) · NETHERLANDS
Jazz & Pop
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Top-rated programmeAccording to the Dutch 'Keuzegids' 2025
- 4 yearsFull-time duration
- 240 ECTSEuropean Credit Transfer and Accumulation System points
- English and DutchLanguage of instruction
- Interdisciplinary collaborationWork with students from Theatre, Design, and Music & Technology
- Personal guidanceFrom dedicated lecturers and guest lecturers
The Jazz & Pop Bachelor of Music program at HKU Utrechts Conservatorium offers a comprehensive music education focused on developing your skills as a performer and creator. You'll have the opportunity to specialize in jazz, bebop, fusion, pop, rock, soul, or dance music, tailoring the program to your individual expertise and interests. The curriculum emphasizes both instrumental development and collaborative learning, preparing you for a multifaceted career in the music industry. HKU fosters a supportive yet competitive environment where students gain performing experience in ensembles, engage in interdisciplinary projects with other HKU academies, and receive personal guidance from dedicated lecturers and guest artists. The program is recognized for its quality, having been top-rated by the Dutch 'Keuzegids' 2025.
Curriculum
The Jazz & Pop program is structured to guide your development as a musician over four years. The curriculum focuses on instrumental proficiency, ensemble playing, improvisation, arrangement, composition, and entrepreneurship, preparing you for a diverse career as a performer, maker, teacher, or producer. You will gain practical experience through various projects, performances, and potential internships, culminating in a graduation project that showcases your artistic identity.
- Year 1: Exploring and Getting Your Bearings
- Orientation Subjects
- Theory Lessons
- Piano Lessons
- Jazz and Pop Music History
- Band Skills
- Project Weeks (including interdisciplinary projects)
- 'Take the Floor' Exam
- Final Concert
- Year 2: Going into More Depth
- Band Skills with Entrepreneurship
- Production Lessons
- Education Lessons
- Internship with professional teachers
- Produce a festival
- Year 3: Carving Out a Path
- Makership Courses (creation, arrangement, composition)
- Electives
- Opportunity for study abroad/exchange programmes
- Year 4: Graduating
- Individual Band Project (including production and promotion)
- Electives and extracurricular activities
- Graduation Research
- Graduation Concert
Careers
Graduates of the Jazz & Pop program are prepared for diverse roles within the music industry. The program cultivates skills for performance, composition, teaching, and production, encouraging an entrepreneurial approach to building a sustainable career.
- Performer
- Maker
- Teacher
- Producer
- Bandleader
- Arranger
- Composer
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentSuccessful completion of secondary education is required.
An audition is required for admission. You will be assessed on your instrumental skills, musicality, and potential. Specific requirements for the audition will be provided upon application.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Tuition fees and living costs for international students are not specified on the program page. Please refer to the university's official website for the most up-to-date financial information.
How to apply
1. Register via StudielinkBegin your application process by registering on the official Dutch higher education portal, Studielink. This is the central registration system for most Dutch universities and conservatories.
2. Complete the ApplicationAfter registering on Studielink, you will receive further instructions from HKU regarding the completion of your full application, which may include submitting required documents and information.
3. Prepare for the AuditionThe program requires an audition to assess your instrumental skills, musicality, and potential. Familiarize yourself with the audition requirements, which will be provided by the university.
4. Attend the AuditionSuccessfully pass the audition process. This is a crucial step in the selection procedure.
Accreditation
Bachelor of Music