Michigan State University

What you'll study

• Core musicianship: sequential courses in music theory, ear training/aural skills, and keyboard proficiency to build foundational literacy.
• Applied study: weekly private lessons on primary instrument or voice, regular juries and recitals; opportunities for chamber music and solo performance.
• Ensembles and performance labs: participation in choirs, orchestras, bands, jazz ensembles and musical theatre productions, with options for contemporary and historically informed performance.
• Music history and literature: surveys covering Western art music, jazz, popular music studies and non-Western music traditions, with coursework in repertoire and analysis.
• Composition and arranging: courses in composition, orchestration and arranging, plus access to composition workshops and student showcases.
• Music technology: instruction in recording techniques, digital audio workstations, music production and notation software; opportunities to work in campus studios and labs.
• Pedagogy and professional preparation: for students on the music education track, methods courses, practica in teaching, and student teaching placements. Other tracks include performance, composition and music industry/entrepreneurship courses.
• Interdisciplinary options: electives and collaborative projects with theatre and dance, humanities and education, and access to university-wide courses in arts management, marketing and community engagement.

Entry requirements

• Successful completion of secondary education or equivalent; academic transcripts demonstrating preparation for university-level study.
• Admission typically requires an audition or submission of recorded performance materials; requirements vary by major track (performance, composition, education).
• Supplementary materials may include a portfolio (for composition), a resume of musical experience, and letters of recommendation, particularly for competitive performance tracks.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university and submit certified academic records.
• Candidates for the music education route should demonstrate prior experience teaching or working with young learners when possible and be prepared for eventual certification requirements in the state where they intend to teach.

Career prospects

• Classical, jazz and contemporary soloist or ensemble musician in orchestras, bands, chamber groups and touring ensembles.
• Music educator in schools and community settings (note: full K–12 public school certification requires completion of state licensure processes).
• Composer, arranger, music producer or studio technician working in media, live performance and recording industries.
• Arts administration, concert management, programming and audience development roles in presenting organisations and cultural institutions.
• Further study options include graduate degrees in performance, composition, conducting, musicology, music therapy (requires specialised training), or law/business for careers in arts leadership.

Why study at Michigan State University

• Home to a comprehensive College of Music, Theatre and Dance that encourages collaboration across performance and production disciplines.
• Extensive performance opportunities on campus and partnerships with regional presenting venues, allowing students to gain practical concert and production experience.
• Access to specialised facilities, including rehearsal halls, recording studios and ensemble spaces, and a faculty of active performers, scholars and industry professionals.
• Support for professional development through career services, entrepreneurship coursework and networking with visiting artists and guest conductors.
• Opportunities to combine study with other university strengths—education, business, humanities and international programmes—for a personalised and career-oriented degree pathway.