University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme blends applied performance, ensemble work, and academic study to develop advanced technical, interpretive and analytical skills. Typical components include one-to-one applied lessons, chamber and large-ensemble participation, and public performance requirements such as a recital or capstone project. Core academic work commonly covers advanced music theory and analysis, music history and literature, research methods in music, and pedagogy.

• Applied Lessons: regular private instruction tailored to your principal instrument or voice, culminating in a final recital or juried performance.
• Ensembles: participation in chamber groups, orchestra, choir or specialised ensembles to develop collaborative and professional performance experience.
• History and Literature: in-depth study of repertoire, stylistic periods and interpretive issues.
• Theory and Analysis: advanced harmony, counterpoint, form and contemporary analytical approaches.
• Pedagogy and Professional Skills: coursework in teaching methods, curriculum design, rehearsal techniques and audition preparation.
• Research/Capstone: an academic thesis, research project or practicum that demonstrates advanced scholarship or professional competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in music or a closely related discipline, with strong preparation in performance and academic coursework. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement outlining goals and interests, two or three letters of recommendation, and an audition or portfolio of recent recordings demonstrating performance ability.

Additional considerations:

• Applicants without a music undergraduate degree may be considered if they demonstrate equivalent preparation through coursework, experience or a strong audition.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional exemptions.
• Some specialisations may require interviews or additional materials (e.g. teaching portfolios for those emphasising pedagogy).

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of professional paths in the music and theatre sectors. Typical careers include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber, orchestral or operatic settings.
• Music educator at secondary or collegiate levels, private studio teaching, or curriculum development roles.
• Arts administrator, producing concerts, managing ensembles, or working with cultural organisations and community programmes.
• Choral or instrumental conductor, rehearsal director or accompanist.
• Further academic study (doctoral programmes) or specialised certification where required (for example, music therapy requires distinct accreditation paths).

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a contextualised graduate music education within a liberal arts environment, combining personalised instruction with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Small class sizes allow close mentorship from faculty who are active performers, educators and scholars. The campus's location in the San Diego region provides access to a vibrant regional arts scene, professional ensembles, theatres and community outreach partnerships, creating practical performance and work-placement possibilities.

Facilities and resources support both performance and research, including rehearsal spaces, practice rooms and recital venues. The programme’s emphasis on both artistry and professional skills prepares graduates for diverse roles across performance, education and arts leadership.