Kent State University

What you'll study

The master's in music at Kent State is offered in several pathways (for example Master of Music and Master of Arts), allowing specialisms in areas such as instrumental or vocal performance, composition, conducting, music theory, musicology and music education. Core components typically include intensive applied lessons, ensemble participation, graduate-level seminars in theory and analysis, and courses in historical or contemporary repertoire. Students normally complete a capstone in the form of a graduate recital, a written thesis or a research/project paper depending on the chosen track.

• Applied study: weekly private lessons and public recitals culminating in a graduate recital.
• Ensembles: chamber groups, symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, chorus, opera workshop and contemporary music ensembles.
• Theory & analysis: advanced harmony, counterpoint, form and analysis, and topics in contemporary theory.
• Music history & research: graduate seminars in historical periods, historiography and research methods; preparation of a thesis or research paper for MA tracks.
• Composition & conducting: composition studios, score study, rehearsal technique and conducting practica where applicable.
• Pedagogy & music education: methods courses, supervised teaching and pedagogical research for those on the education pathway.
• Professional development: opportunities in arts entrepreneurship, pedagogy, applied studio teaching and conference presentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree with substantial musical content; specific degree types accepted vary by programme (for example BMus, BA in Music or equivalent). Requirements commonly include a secure academic transcript, a statement of purpose describing goals and specialism, and two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

• Audition/portfolio: performance applicants must submit an audition (live or recorded) demonstrating repertoire and technical skill; composition applicants submit scores and recordings; research applicants submit writing samples or a research proposal.
• English language: international applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS or accepted equivalents).
• Additional requirements: some specialisms may require interviews, placement examinations in theory, or evidence of previous teaching experience for education-focused routes.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across performance, education and the broader music industry. Typical roles include orchestral or chamber musician, solo performer, accompanist, composer, choral or instrumental director, private studio teacher, college-level instructor (often with further doctoral study), and arts administrator.

The programme also prepares students for further study at the doctoral level (PhD or DMA) and provides experience useful for roles in community music, music technology, publishing, and producing.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State's School of Music offers a range of performance ensembles, specialist studios and faculty with active performance and research profiles. Students benefit from frequent public performance opportunities, collaborative projects across theatre and other arts departments, and access to practice facilities and instrument resources on campus.

The university also provides support through scholarships, teaching and graduate assistantships, and opportunities to engage with the regional cultural community through concerts, outreach and partnerships—making it a practical choice for students seeking a balance of high-level training, research options and real-world professional experience.