Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced applied study with academic coursework and ensemble participation. Typical components include private lessons, graduate recitals, and seminars in topics such as music theory and analysis, music history and literature, pedagogy, orchestration, and contemporary techniques. Students may select a focus—performance, composition, conducting, or music education—and follow either a practica/recital track or a research/project track that culminates in a capstone recital, composition portfolio or thesis project.

Core and elective modules you can expect include:

• Advanced applied lessons (one-to-one instruction)
• Graduate seminars in music theory and historical perspectives
• Chamber music and large ensemble participation
• Vocal and instrumental literature; diction and rehearsal techniques for singers
• Composition workshops and score study
• Conducting and rehearsal practicum for instrumentalists and vocal leaders
• Pedagogy and curriculum design for classroom and private teaching
• Collaborative theatre-music workshops and production practicum for students interested in musical theatre or dramatic scoring
• Electives in technology, such as music recording, notation software, and digital audio workstations

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised undergraduate degree in music or an equivalent qualification demonstrating substantial musical preparation. Typical admission requirements include:

• Undergraduate transcript showing relevant coursework in performance, theory and musicianship
• An audition (live or recorded) or composition portfolio appropriate to the chosen concentration
• Statement of purpose outlining goals, prior experience and intended area of emphasis
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) where required

Additional requirements or preparatory coursework may be specified for applicants from non-music backgrounds; some candidates may be offered conditional admission with a tailored plan to address any gaps in musicianship or theory.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a broad range of careers across performance, education, composition and arts leadership. Typical pathways include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber or orchestral settings
• Music educator at secondary and post-secondary levels or private studio teaching
• Composer or arranger for concert, theatre and media projects
• Choral or instrumental conductor and rehearsal director
• Music director/producer for theatre and musical theatre productions
• Accompanist, collaborative pianist or répétiteur
• Arts administrator, programme coordinator or community arts organiser

Graduates are also well prepared to continue to doctoral study or to pursue professional certifications in music education and related fields.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a balance of personalised instruction and practical performance experience within a supportive department. Students benefit from small graduate class sizes, regular performance and production opportunities, and collaborative work across music and theatre disciplines. The programme emphasises mentorship from faculty active as performers, composers and educators, and provides links to regional music and theatre communities, enabling real-world experience and professional networking.

The flexible curriculum accommodates a variety of career goals—whether you seek intensive performance training, a route into teaching, or applied composition and production work—while offering access to the wider cultural resources of the surrounding region for internships and collaborative projects.