Graduate Programs

Photo of male student piano recital mdt

Graduate Programs

Music, Dance, & Theatre: Graduate Programs

The Music, Dance, and Theatre Department offers a Master of Music in Performance, with the following specializations:


The Master of Music in Performance—Instrumental Studies students are required to take an entrance audition. The degree program puts emphasis on the study and performance of all styles of Classical Instrumental Performance. The culminating activities include a research paper and a full-length recital.


The Master of Music in Performance—Vocal Studies students are required to take an entrance audition. The degree program puts emphasis on the study and performance of all styles of Classical Voice. The culminating activities include a research paper and a full-length recital.

Master of Music In Performance—Composition
The Master of Music in Performance—Composition students will develop writing skills and techniques in a variety of styles and musical forms so that they can organize their thematic ideas into original compositions and arrangements. For students interested in electronic music, the well-equipped studios in the MDT Department will provide an excellent opportunity to explore in depth this vital aspect of music, using the latest computer technology. Students interested in composing for film, dance, or theatre will be encouraged to form interactive relationships with students majoring in those disciplines. Candidates are required to submit a Statement of Goals, a Resume, and a Portfolio that should demonstrate the student's skills in music composition.

Master of Music In Performance—Multi-Style Strings
The Master of Music in performance with a concentration in Multi-Style Strings offers an advanced performance-based degree with specialization in diverse styles (including Jazz, Classical, Fiddle, multi-cultural, Experimental, among many others) technology and improvisation. Graduates of the Multi-Style String program will possess both the artistic and practical tools essential for the 21st century string player to succeed in the professional music world.