Oregon State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced practical training with academic study and creative work. Core elements typically include advanced lessons/studio work in your principal area (voice, instrument, composition, conducting), seminars in music theory and analysis, courses in music history or ethnomusicology, and supervised research or a creative project such as a thesis, recital or portfolio.

• Performance and studio lessons: intensive one‑to‑one tuition and regular jury evaluations leading to a public recital option.
• Composition and arranging: advanced composition workshops, score study and opportunities for collaborative performance of new work.
• Music theory and analysis: post‑graduate coursework in advanced harmony, counterpoint, form and contemporary analysis techniques.
• Musicology and research methods: study of historical and cultural approaches to music, bibliography and research skills for the written thesis or project.
• Music pedagogy and education: pedagogical practice and curriculum design for students aiming for teaching careers at various levels.
• Music technology and recording: coursework in studio practice, digital audio workstations, score preparation and new media for students interested in production or electroacoustic work.

Students tailor their programme through elective choices and a culminating requirement that may take the form of a written thesis, a research project, a major recital or a portfolio of compositions. Collaborative opportunities exist across the university’s arts units, including ensembles, theatre productions and interdisciplinary projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with substantial preparation in music or an equivalent qualification demonstrating the academic and practical foundation to undertake graduate study. Typical requirements include:

• A completed undergraduate degree in music or closely related field (or equivalent background and experience).
• Evidence of musical achievement: this may be an audition (live or recorded), a composition portfolio, or samples of creative work appropriate to the intended area of study.
• Academic transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from teachers or professional referees who can speak to your readiness for graduate work.
• A personal statement outlining your musical goals, proposed focus of study and relevant experience.

Specific admissions criteria, language proficiency requirements for international students, and any additional programme‑specific audition or portfolio instructions are published by the university and should be consulted as part of the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Music move into a wide range of music‑related careers. Common pathways include:

• Professional performance (solo, chamber, orchestral, choral or contemporary ensembles).
• Teaching and music education at secondary and post‑secondary levels, including preparation for certification where required.
• Composition and arranging for concert, media and commercial contexts.
• Music technology and production roles in recording studios, media companies and live sound.
• Arts administration, programming and community arts leadership within cultural organisations and ensembles.
• Further academic study such as doctoral programmes in performance, musicology, composition or music education.

The programme emphasises practical experience and professional development—recitals, collaborative projects and teaching opportunities help build portfolios and networks used to launch careers in diverse musical settings.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers graduate music study within a liberal‑arts research university that combines practical training with scholarly and interdisciplinary resources. Students benefit from one‑to‑one instruction, ensemble participation and access to performance venues and recording facilities. The university’s emphasis on collaboration across arts, humanities and technology provides pathways to interdisciplinary work in areas such as theatre, media arts and community engagement.

Studying in Corvallis places students within a regional cultural scene while remaining connected to larger metropolitan areas, creating opportunities for performance, internships and partnerships. Faculty mentoring, research supervision and professional development activities are structured to help students meet individual artistic and career goals.