University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The master’s programme combines advanced practical training with scholarly and technical study. Core elements typically include private applied lessons, ensemble participation, and seminars in advanced theory and analysis. Students pursue a specialism—performance, composition, musicology/music theory, conducting or music technology—with tailored coursework such as:

• Advanced performance studio and recurring jury/recital requirements
• Composition seminars, orchestration and electronic/electroacoustic composition
• Music history and historiography, research methods and critical analysis
• Advanced music theory, analysis of tonal and post‑tonal repertoire
• Music technology topics: recording techniques, music production, interactive media and sound design
• Conducting technique and rehearsal practicum (for conducting majors)
• Pedagogy and methods for those preparing for teaching careers
• Capstone options such as a public recital, composition portfolio, written thesis or applied project

Programme structure balances coursework, private instruction, ensemble rehearsals and a culminating project. Students may also take electives across departments to develop interdisciplinary skills in areas such as cognitive science, media, theatre or computer science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in music or an equivalent level of training. Requirements commonly include:

• Academic transcripts demonstrating undergraduate coursework in music
• Audiovisual audition recordings or live audition for performance and conducting applicants
• Composition portfolio for composition or music technology applicants
• Statement of purpose outlining artistic goals and proposed area of study
• Letters of recommendation, typically from teachers or professional musicians
• Evidence of English language proficiency for international applicants (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS)

Some specialisations may require additional materials (such as scores, project proposals or an interview). Funding decisions, assistantships and admissions are competitive and consider the entire application package including artistic potential and academic preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates from this master's programme pursue a broad range of careers in music and related fields. Typical pathways include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber and orchestral contexts
• Composer for concert, theatre, film, media and interactive platforms
• Music educator at community, private studio, and K–12 levels (additional certification may be required for public school teaching)
• Academic or applied researcher in musicology, theory, or music cognition
• Music technologist, audio engineer, or producer working in recording, post‑production or live sound
• Arts administrator, programme curator or producer in cultural organisations
• Freelance creative professional combining performance, composition and entrepreneurship

The programme’s combination of high‑level training, ensemble experience and technical coursework supports careers both inside and adjacent to traditional performance and academic routes.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder offers this master’s within a department known for strong one‑to‑one instruction, a diverse faculty of performers, composers and scholars, and modern facilities housed in the campus music buildings. Students benefit from well‑equipped practice rooms, recording and music‑technology labs, and multiple recital venues that support public performance experience.

The university’s research environment encourages interdisciplinary collaboration—from computer science and media studies to cognitive science and theatre—allowing students to combine musical practice with technology, scholarship or performance design. Boulder’s active regional music scene and close proximity to Denver expand professional networking, performance and internship opportunities.

Assistantships and other forms of financial support are offered to qualified students; prospective applicants should consult departmental admissions information for details on available funding and teaching opportunities.