Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines core musical training with applied study and ensemble participation. Typical components include aural skills, harmony and counterpoint, music theory and history, keyboard skills, and technology for music. Students receive one-to-one applied lessons on their primary instrument or voice, and take part in a variety of ensembles such as concert band, symphony orchestra, choir, jazz ensemble and chamber groups.

There are usually routes or concentrations to tailor the degree—common options include performance, music education, composition/songwriting, and music industry or technology. Course work often covers score reading, orchestration, conducting fundamentals, arranging, recording and production, and courses in music pedagogy for those preparing to teach. Students also complete recital requirements or a capstone project in performance, research or creative work.

• Applied lessons and juries
• Large and small ensembles (choral, orchestral, jazz, chamber)
• Music theory, ear training and music history
• Conducting, arranging and orchestration
• Music technology, recording and production
• Pedagogy and practicum for prospective music teachers
• Recital or senior capstone project

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a recognised secondary-school diploma with a strong academic record and evidence of sustained musical study. Most students are expected to demonstrate proficiency on a primary instrument or voice through an audition or submission of performance recordings; some non-performance tracks may allow a portfolio in composition or production in lieu of an audition.

Typical departmental requirements include placement examinations in theory or keyboard skills and an interview with faculty. International students must meet the university’s English language requirements. Candidates for music education routes should be prepared to meet state licensure prerequisites and may need to complete additional professional education coursework or clinical experiences.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the music and performing-arts sector. Common pathways include professional performance (solo, orchestral, chamber, choral or musical theatre), public or private-school music teaching, private studio teaching, music directing, arranging and composing. Other employment areas include arts administration, community music leadership, music production and audio engineering, library and archival work, and freelancing in live music and events. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study (performance diplomas, master’s degrees in performance, composition, education or musicology).

Alumni frequently combine music skills with related careers in education, media, and non-profit arts organisations; the programme’s practicum and ensemble work aim to prepare students for both freelance and institution-based roles.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a conservatory-style emphasis within a public university environment, balancing rigorous applied training with liberal-arts breadth. Students benefit from regular performance opportunities on campus and in the wider region, individualised instruction from experienced faculty, and access to practice rooms, rehearsal spaces and music-technology resources.

The university’s location near a major metropolitan area provides connections to a broad cultural scene, guest-artist residencies, internship opportunities and regional ensembles. Small class sizes and ensemble rosters encourage close mentorship, while collaborative links with the theatre and dance programmes support musical theatre and interdisciplinary projects. The department supports professional development through mock auditions, teaching practica and networking events to prepare graduates for a variety of music careers.