Overview

The Music programme at Western Michigan University provides a rigorous academic environment for students seeking to advance their professional expertise in the musical arts. This Master of Music degree is specifically structured to refine the performing, teaching, and creative skills of dedicated musicians. By integrating practical application with theoretical depth, the curriculum prepares graduates for high-level careers in the global arts sector.

Why Music at Western Michigan University?

Studying at the Irving S. Gilmore School of Music provides students with access to exceptional facilities and a vibrant artistic community. The university is recognised for its diverse range of concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to specific professional goals. From state-of-the-art performance spaces to specialized research resources, the environment fosters both technical mastery and innovative thinking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15620 per year
National fee: USD 15620 per year
Local fee: USD 10414 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to enhance research and creative abilities across several specialised areas. Modules may include:

Composition
Conducting
Music Therapy
Instrumental Performance
Jazz Studies
Keyboard
Voice
Music Theory
Ethnomusicology

Careers with Music

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the music industry and academia. Many alumni pursue successful careers as professional performers in orchestral, jazz, or vocal ensembles. Others find opportunities in music therapy, conducting, or as specialized educators and composers. The advanced training provided ensures that students are competitive for positions in arts administration and creative research.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Research Methods

Music History

Music Theory

Music Ensemble
Electives

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-05-05 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

For national students: on-going.

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kalamazoo, United States

Disciplines

Music View 1017 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Successful completion of Bachelor of Music degree (or Bachelor of Arts in Music).

A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00.

A minimum GPA of 3.25 for all music theory, history, and aural skills courses, with no grade less than a “C” at the 1000-level and no grade less than a “B” at the 2000-level or above.

A portfolio of three scholarly papers which demonstrate the ability to conduct research and write at a level appropriate for a Master’s Thesis.

Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Copy of passport identification page

Proof of English language proficiency

Transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended or are attending, including diplomas, examination results, mark sheets and certificates

$100 non-refundable application fee

Proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU according to estimated cost of attendance
This program requires three recommendations

Written statement

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Out-of-State

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10414 USD / year

≈ 10414 USD / year

Additional Details

Local Summer: 2,386 International Summer: 3,579

Living costs

Kalamazoo

United States

1000 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Music.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Kalamazoo

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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