WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Music
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 28Graduate Faculty
- 25Graduate Students
- 12Students Receiving Assistantships
Washington State University's School of Music offers a Master of Arts in Music degree with several areas of specialization. This program is designed for students seeking advanced studies in music education, composition, music history and literature, conducting, or performance studies. It can be pursued through either a thesis or non-thesis option, allowing students to tailor their academic journey to their specific goals. The degree is available on the Pullman campus, with specific emphases like Performance not offered on the Global Campus. Specializations include music education for teachers, performance for those aiming for college-level teaching or professional performance careers, composition for aspiring composers and arrangers, and a jazz emphasis covering performance, composition, arranging, pedagogy, and history. Students can also complete the degree without a formal emphasis.
Curriculum
The program offers flexibility to align with student goals, including thesis and non-thesis options. Students gain practical experience by conducting and rehearsing ensembles, teaching undergraduate courses, and preparing for competitions.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Music program are well-prepared for diverse professional roles within the music industry and academia. The program's comprehensive training equips students with the skills necessary for advanced careers.
- Performer
- Educator (university, community college, public school)
- Composer
- Arranger
- Recording Artist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Arts in Music program?
- Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a related field. Required application materials include a WSU Graduate School application, statement of purpose, CV/resume, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
- What English language proficiency is required for international students?
- International students must achieve an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher. This ensures they meet the Graduate School's minimum English language proficiency requirements.
- Are there specific application deadlines for international students?
- Yes, the priority deadline for Fall intake is January 10, and for Spring intake, it is November 15. Applicants should submit all materials by these dates for priority consideration.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Performer, Educator (university, community college, public school), Composer, Arranger, and Recording Artist. The program's comprehensive training supports diverse professional paths in music.
- What specialized materials are required for certain emphases?
- For a composition emphasis, a portfolio with scores and recordings is needed. For music education, a written philosophy of teaching is required, in addition to a general audition that varies by emphasis.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA bachelor's degree in a related field is required. Specific admission materials include a WSU Graduate School application, statement of purpose, CV/resume, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
AuditionAn audition is required for admission, with specific requirements varying by emphasis. Performance and conducting emphases require a more in-depth audition.
Composition PortfolioFor the composition emphasis, a portfolio including scores and recordings is necessary.
Philosophy of TeachingFor the music education emphasis, a written philosophy of teaching must be submitted.
IELTS7.0 (overall)
International students must meet the Graduate School's minimum English language proficiency scores. Diagnostic exams in music theory, aural skills, and music history are administered after application submission.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to Washington State University's Graduate School for current international tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to Washington State University's Graduate School for current domestic tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are available from Washington State University's Graduate School or the School of Music.
Tuition and fee information, along with estimated living costs, should be confirmed directly with Washington State University.
How to apply
1. Submit Graduate School ApplicationComplete and submit the online WSU Graduate School application.
2. Provide Supporting DocumentsSubmit a statement of purpose, CV/resume, and transcripts.
3. Secure Letters of RecommendationArrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent.
4. Submit Portfolio/Teaching PhilosophyFor composition, submit a portfolio with scores and recordings. For music education, submit a written philosophy of teaching.
5. Complete AuditionParticipate in the required audition, which varies in depth based on the chosen emphasis (e.g., performance requires a more in-depth audition).
6. Meet English ProficiencyEnsure you meet or exceed the Graduate School's minimum English language proficiency exam scores, including an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher.
7. Take Diagnostic ExamsAfter submitting your application, you will take diagnostic exams in music theory, aural skills, and music history.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Arts in Music program?
+
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a related field. Required application materials include a WSU Graduate School application, statement of purpose, CV/resume, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
What English language proficiency is required for international students?
+
International students must achieve an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher. This ensures they meet the Graduate School's minimum English language proficiency requirements.
Are there specific application deadlines for international students?
+
Yes, the priority deadline for Fall intake is January 10, and for Spring intake, it is November 15. Applicants should submit all materials by these dates for priority consideration.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Performer, Educator (university, community college, public school), Composer, Arranger, and Recording Artist. The program's comprehensive training supports diverse professional paths in music.
What specialized materials are required for certain emphases?
+
For a composition emphasis, a portfolio with scores and recordings is needed. For music education, a written philosophy of teaching is required, in addition to a general audition that varies by emphasis.