Colorado State University

What you'll study

The Master’s in Music is a combination of intensive applied study, ensemble work, and advanced academic coursework. Typical components include weekly private lessons, participation in large ensembles and chamber groups, and specialised seminars in areas such as advanced music theory, music history, analysis, and pedagogy. Students pursue one of several emphasis areas—performance, composition, conducting, or music education—and complete a substantial culminating project such as a graduate recital, thesis, composition portfolio, or practicum-based capstone.

• Applied lessons: one-to-one instruction focused on technique, repertoire and performance practice.
• Ensembles and performance: orchestras, wind ensembles, choirs, opera workshops, chamber music and contemporary music ensembles.
• Academic seminars: advanced theory and analysis, music history and literature, research methods and score study.
• Pedagogy and practicum: methods courses and supervised teaching opportunities for those preparing for school or private studio work.
• Culminating work: graduate recital, thesis or capstone project tailored to the student’s emphasis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree, typically in music or a closely related field, with preparation appropriate to graduate study. Admission requires a formal application to the Department of Music, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. All performance-track applicants must pass an audition; composition or conducting applicants may be asked to submit portfolios or conducting videos. A written statement of purpose outlining goals and proposed study is required. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Music follow diverse professional paths. Common destinations include careers as professional performers and chamber musicians, public school and private studio music teachers, collegiate instructors or instructors in community music programmes, choral and instrumental conductors, composers and arrangers, and roles in arts administration, programming and production. The degree also prepares students for further academic study such as a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) or PhD in music-related fields.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s Department of Music offers a balance of conservatory-level training and university-style scholarship. Students benefit from one-to-one instruction with active performers, composers and scholars, access to on-campus performance venues and rehearsal facilities, and regular performance and collaboration opportunities. The programme’s location near a vibrant regional arts scene provides engagement with community ensembles and outreach, while teaching and assistantship opportunities give practical experience for careers in education and administration.