CLAREMONT GRADUATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Music
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€56k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 36 unitsProgram Size
- 2 yearsEstimated Completion Time
- In PersonModality
- Spring, FallProgram Start
- Ample performance opportunities through department concerts.Performance Opportunities
- Access to historical instruments including harpsichords, a fortepiano, and a chamber organ.Historical Performance Practice
Claremont Graduate University's Master of Arts in Music program is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for a professional career in music. The program offers a balanced approach, integrating music performance with scholarly research. You will explore music within its broader interdisciplinary, cultural, and intellectual contexts while developing mastery in the theory and practice of performance. Our faculty comprises accomplished performers and scholars with diverse expertise in musicology, performance, and composition. They are dedicated mentors who bring their passion for music and research into the classroom.
Careers
Graduates of the MA in Music program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the music field. The program's strong foundation in both performance and scholarship opens doors to academic and professional opportunities.
- College and university professors
- Professional ensemble members
- Music directors in churches
- Solo performing artists
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Arts in Music program?
- The estimated tuition for the 36-unit MA in Music program for 2025-2026 is $74,520 ($2,070 per unit). In addition, students pay a $245 Student Fee and a $150 Technology Fee per semester. International students also incur an International Student Services Fee of $802 for the fall and $898 for the spring semester, which covers health insurance and administrative costs.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Arts in Music program?
- For Spring 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is November 15, 2025. For Fall 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is July 5, 2026. Classes begin January 20, 2026 for Spring and August 24, 2026 for Fall.
- What are the entry requirements for the MA in Music program?
- Applicants need to submit official transcripts, a resume, a 2-3 page statement of purpose, and one letter of recommendation. An audition is mandatory for performance-focused applicants, and international applicants must submit English proficiency exam scores. GRE scores are optional.
- How long does it take to complete the Master of Arts in Music program?
- The Master of Arts in Music program requires 36 units and has an estimated completion time of two years.
- What career paths are available to graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers such as college and university professors, professional ensemble members, music directors, and solo performing artists. The program's blend of performance and scholarship opens diverse academic and professional doors.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is charged per unit. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the rate is $2,070 per unit. A full-time Master's program typically requires 36 units, totaling $74,520 for the program (assuming 36 units at $2,070/unit). However, the MA program specifically states 36 units required, and the estimated tuition based on per unit cost for 36-38 units is $74,520 - $78,660. The provided per-unit cost implies an annual tuition of $62,100 for 30 units, or $74,520 for 36 units. For estimation purposes, we'll use 36 units.
Tuition (home)Tuition is charged per unit. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the rate is $2,070 per unit. A full-time Master's program typically requires 36 units, totaling $74,520 for the program (assuming 36 units at $2,070/unit). However, the MA program specifically states 36 units required, and the estimated tuition based on per unit cost for 36-38 units is $74,520 - $78,660. The provided per-unit cost implies an annual tuition of $62,100 for 30 units, or $74,520 for 36 units. For estimation purposes, we'll use 36 units.
LivingEstimated Cost of Attendance for 2025-2026 includes tuition, fees, room & board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. For a comprehensive estimate, please refer to the official Cost of Attendance document.
In addition to tuition, students pay semester fees: $245 Student Fee and $150 Technology Fee. International students also pay an International Student Services Fee: $802 (fall semester) and $898 (spring semester), which covers health insurance and administrative costs.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the online application form.
2. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee of $80 is required.
3. Submit TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
4. Submit English Proficiency Exam ScoresInternational applicants must submit scores from an accepted English proficiency test.
5. Upload ResumeSubmit an up-to-date resume detailing your academic and professional background.
6. Write Statement of PurposeCraft a 2-3 page statement of purpose addressing your academic/professional achievements, research interests, reasons for applying to CGU, and career aspirations.
7. Request Letters of RecommendationSubmit one letter of recommendation.
8. Submit GRE Scores (Optional)While optional, GRE scores can be submitted if you choose.
9. Prepare for Audition (Performance Programs)Applicants for performance-focused degree programs must prepare for and complete an audition as part of the application process.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Arts in Music program?
+
The estimated tuition for the 36-unit MA in Music program for 2025-2026 is $74,520 ($2,070 per unit). In addition, students pay a $245 Student Fee and a $150 Technology Fee per semester. International students also incur an International Student Services Fee of $802 for the fall and $898 for the spring semester, which covers health insurance and administrative costs.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Arts in Music program?
+
For Spring 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is November 15, 2025. For Fall 2026 intake, the International Final Deadline is July 5, 2026. Classes begin January 20, 2026 for Spring and August 24, 2026 for Fall.
What are the entry requirements for the MA in Music program?
+
Applicants need to submit official transcripts, a resume, a 2-3 page statement of purpose, and one letter of recommendation. An audition is mandatory for performance-focused applicants, and international applicants must submit English proficiency exam scores. GRE scores are optional.
How long does it take to complete the Master of Arts in Music program?
+
The Master of Arts in Music program requires 36 units and has an estimated completion time of two years.
What career paths are available to graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers such as college and university professors, professional ensemble members, music directors, and solo performing artists. The program's blend of performance and scholarship opens diverse academic and professional doors.