Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

The programme combines core music theory and history with substantial applied study and ensemble participation. Typical components include applied lessons (private instruction on your principal instrument or voice), large ensembles (orchestra, wind ensemble, choirs), chamber music, ear training, music theory, counterpoint and music history surveys. Depending on the chosen pathway, you can expect advanced courses in performance practice, composition and arranging, conducting, pedagogy and studio teaching methods, music technology and recording, and interdisciplinary collaboration with theatre, dance and film.

• Performance pathway: weekly private lessons, juries, recitals, auditioned ensembles, performance seminars and masterclasses.
• Composition and music technology: composition workshops, orchestration, electronic music, digital audio production and scoring for media.
• Music education: coursework in classroom methods, curriculum design, student teaching placements and certification preparation where applicable.
• Music studies/liberal arts: broader study of musicology, ethnomusicology, business of music and elective options across the university.

The degree typically culminates in a junior-year jury and a senior recital or capstone project. Students also take general education courses and may pursue minors or double majors across Meadows, including theatre and film, to broaden professional skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to Southern Methodist University requires meeting the university's general undergraduate admission standards, including a completed application, academic transcripts and supporting materials. Admission to the Bachelor in Music programme typically also requires a competitive audition or submission of recorded performance materials and may require written work or portfolios for composition applicants.

• High school diploma or equivalent and official transcripts demonstrating strong academic preparation.
• Audition or recorded performance submission evaluated by the School of Music faculty; repertoire requirements vary by applied area.
• For composition applicants, submission of scores and recordings or a composition portfolio.
• Letters of recommendation and a personal statement are commonly required; language proficiency proof is required for non-native English speakers.
• Prospective music education students should review state licensure requirements if they intend to pursue certification.

Specific audition repertoire lists, portfolio instructions and any placement testing are provided by the Meadows School of the Arts; check the school’s admissions pages for detailed application steps.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of music and theatre-related careers. Typical roles include orchestral, chamber and solo performer; choral or ensemble singer; composer and arranger for concert, theatre or media; music teacher in schools or private studios; conductor; music producer and audio engineer; arts administrator; and freelance musician. The degree also prepares students for advanced study at conservatories and graduate programmes in performance, composition, musicology, music education and music technology.

Because the programme is embedded in a comprehensive arts school and located in Dallas, students often secure internships and professional connections with performing organisations, recording studios, theatre companies and media producers, helping launch careers in both performance and the broader creative industries.

Why study at Southern Methodist University

Meadows School of the Arts offers conservatory-level musical training within a liberal-arts university, combining rigorous one-to-one instruction with broad academic opportunities. Students benefit from experienced faculty who are active performers, composers and educators, frequent masterclasses and a full season of student and professional performances. The school's location in Dallas provides rich performance and internship opportunities with orchestras, opera companies, theatres and a vibrant commercial music scene.

Additional advantages include collaborative possibilities across theatre, dance, film and communications, access to recording and rehearsal facilities, and a strong alumni network in the region’s cultural institutions. These resources make SMU a practical choice for students seeking both artistic development and career preparation in music and theatre.