Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the program’s entry dates and application deadline?
The MM program accepts students for the Fall (September) and Spring (January) semesters.
Students are strongly encouraged to have their application files, including all needed documentation, completed at least two months prior to the start of the semester.
2. How many students are in the typical class?
MM class sizes are purposefully kept small, with no more than 17 students per class. We offer an excellent faculty/student ratio, allowing our students to have direct access to and the personalized attention of their instructors.
3. What are the pre-requisites?
Applicants typically complete their Bachelor of Arts in Music or a Bachelor of Music from a regionally accredited college or university before applying for the MM. Students who do not hold an undergraduate in Music will be required to complete pre-requisite coursework before taking masters-level courses.
4. What is the GPA/GRE requirement?
Applicants must have a GPA of at least 2.75 to be considered for conditional admission. The GRE is not required for candidates with a GPA of 2.75 or above.
5. How long does the program take?
The length of the program varies for each student depending on course load. Students attending full-time each semester may complete the program in approximately six semesters.
6. If I’m in the Performance Concentration may I study with the instructor of my choice?
Yes.
7. When do classes meet?
The Graduate Program in Music is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Typically, classes are held Mondays and Tuesdays between 4 PM – 10 PM.
8. What conducting and performance opportunities do you offer MM students?
MM students enrolled in the Performance Concentration have the opportunity join and perform in the CBU choir, orchestra, jazz and other instrumental ensembles, or start a choral or instrumental group of their own. The Conducting Concentration offers students the opportunity to conduct CBU’s choir, orchestra or other instrumental groups. For their final project, conducting majors select from a variety of pieces representing multiple genres and conduct choral or instrumental groups as they perform the selected piece. Students in the Performance Concentration are required to complete a final recital as part of their graduate experience.
9. Are scholarships available?
Scholarships are available for students who participate in performance groups. If you are interested in qualifying for a performance scholarship, please contact the School of Music to schedule an audition.

