Florida International University

What you'll study

The Master’s in Music curriculum combines advanced applied study with academic coursework and professional practice. Students typically choose a primary focus such as performance, composition, conducting, collaborative piano or music education and follow a programme of applied lessons, ensembles and specialised seminars tailored to that focus.

Typical modules and components

• Applied Lessons: Weekly one-to-one instruction at the graduate level culminating in juries and a final recital or performance project.
• Ensembles and Chamber Music: Participation in large ensembles, chamber groups or collaborative studios to develop ensemble skills and repertoire.
• Advanced Theory and Analysis: Courses in harmony, counterpoint, form and contemporary analysis methods related to your area of study.
• Repertoire and Style Studies: Intensive study of historical and contemporary repertoire relevant to your specialism.
• Research Methods / Musicology: Training in scholarly research, bibliography and methods for those completing a thesis or research project.
• Pedagogy and Teaching Practicum: For music education and performance-track students who intend to teach, covering methods, curriculum design and supervised teaching experience.
• Composition/Arranging Workshops: For composers and arranger tracks, workshop classes, readings and recording sessions of original work.
• Final Requirement: A public graduate recital, capstone project or thesis depending on the chosen concentration and degree requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in music or a closely related discipline (or demonstrate equivalent professional experience). Admission typically requires submission of academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining goals and area of focus.

• Audition or Portfolio: A live or recorded audition is required for performance-based concentrations; composers submit scores and recordings; conducting applicants present a conducting audition or video as specified by the school.
• English proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests unless exempt by institutional policy.
• Additional materials: Curriculum vitae, a sample of scholarly or creative work if relevant, and any additional forms required by the Frost School of Music.
• Prerequisites: Some concentrations may require specific undergraduate coursework or proficiency levels on primary instruments; bridging or preparatory courses can be recommended for candidates with gaps.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Music pursue a wide range of careers across the music and broader cultural sectors. The programme supports pathways into performance, education, composition, conducting and industry roles.

• Professional performer in solo, chamber and orchestral ensembles, or as a collaborative pianist.
• Music educator in schools, colleges, private studios or community programmes; preparation for certification where applicable.
• Composer/arranger for concert, media or commercial projects and freelance commissioning.
• Conductor or artistic leader for ensembles, youth orchestras and choral groups.
• Arts administration, programming, and production roles within orchestras, opera companies, festivals and cultural organisations.
• Further academic study at the doctoral level (DMA or PhD) for those pursuing research, university teaching or advanced performance careers.

Why study at Florida International University

The Frost School of Music at Florida International University offers graduate students personalised instruction from experienced faculty, access to performance venues and recording facilities, and a curriculum that balances practical musicianship with scholarship. Located in Miami, the school benefits from a rich, multicultural arts environment and industry connections across a major metropolitan region.

• Faculty and mentoring: Study with active performers, scholars and composers who provide applied instruction, ensemble leadership and academic supervision.
• Performance opportunities: Frequent concerts, masterclasses and collaborations with visiting artists provide real-world experience and show-ready repertoire.
• Facilities and resources: Access to recital halls, ensemble rehearsal spaces, practice rooms and music technology studios supports both live and recorded work.
• Location: Miami’s diverse cultural scene offers networking, freelance and collaborative opportunities regionally and internationally.
• Career support: The School provides guidance on auditions, teaching preparation and industry pathways that help graduates launch professional careers or continue to doctoral study.