University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The graduate music programmes at UNC Chapel Hill combine intensive applied study with graduate-level coursework and research. Core components typically include advanced applied lessons, chamber and large ensemble participation, graduate seminars in music theory and analysis, music history and literature, and courses in research methods and pedagogy. Students also study areas such as composition, conducting, score study, arranging, and topics in music technology and recording depending on concentration.

Programme structure is credit-based and commonly requires a public recital or creative portfolio and either a research thesis or a capstone project. Students may take elective courses across the university, enabling interdisciplinary work with theatre, dramatic arts, or curricular studies in musical theatre and performance practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with substantial musical preparation. Typical application components include:

• Academic transcripts from previous degree programmes.
• An audition recording or live audition demonstrating applied proficiency (performance majors) or a portfolio of compositions/works (composition applicants).
• A statement of purpose outlining goals and proposed area of study.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé detailing musical experience and training.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Some concentrations may expect prior coursework in music theory, aural skills and keyboard competency; applicants without all prerequisites might be admitted conditionally and required to take preparatory courses.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers as solo and ensemble performers, orchestral and choral musicians, collaborative pianists and accompanists, composers and arrangers, conductors, and musical directors for theatre productions. Other common pathways include secondary or tertiary music education, arts administration, music librarianship, recording and production, and community arts leadership. Many graduates also continue to doctoral study (PhD or DMA) in performance, musicology or composition.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill offers a supportive, research-active environment with strong emphasis on performance and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from experienced faculty with active performing and research profiles, regular campus concert series and collaborations with Carolina Performing Arts and local professional organisations. The university’s proximity to a vibrant cultural region (including the Research Triangle) provides extensive performance, internship and networking opportunities, while campus resources such as libraries, ensembles and cross-departmental links with theatre and dramatic arts enrich both academic and practical training.