Overview

The Music MM at George Mason University provides a sophisticated platform for students to refine their artistic craft and deepen their theoretical understanding. This advanced programme is designed to meet the diverse career needs of modern musicians through a rigorous curriculum that balances practical performance with academic research. Students can choose from several specialised concentrations to tailor their studies to their specific professional goals.

Why Music at George Mason University?

Studying at the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music offers students access to a vibrant artistic community located near the cultural hub of Washington, D.C. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities within the deLaski Performing Arts Building, fostering an environment where creativity and academic excellence thrive. The programme is distinguished by its flexible delivery, including a fully online pathway for music education and intensive summer residencies that feature specialised pedagogy in Orff, Kodaly, and Jazz.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 41124 per year
National fee: USD 18060 per year
Local fee: USD 18060 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of core general requirements followed by intensive concentration-specific modules. All students must complete a comprehensive exit portfolio or exam to demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter.

Core modules include:

Analytical Techniques
Music Theory
Music History and Literature
World Musics
Research in Music

Concentration modules may include:

Applied Music
Graduate Orchestration
Interactive Music Composition
Jazz Improvisation
Psychology of Music Teaching and Learning
Philosophy of Music Education
Keyboard Pedagogy
Vocal Pedagogy and Lab
Instrumental Pedagogy and Literature

Careers with Music

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of high-level roles within the global music industry. The advanced training provided supports careers as professional performers in orchestral, choral, or jazz ensembles, as well as roles in music composition and conducting. Many alumni pursue careers in music education, working in private studios or higher education settings. The programme also equips students with the necessary skills for roles in collaborative piano, pedagogy, and arts leadership, ensuring they are competitive in both performance and academic sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Graduate Choral Ensembles

Wind Symphony

Symphonic Band

Graduate Chamber Ensemble

Symphony Orchestra

Opera and Musical Theater Ensemble

Jazz Ensemble

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Music View 1020 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Online Application
College Transcripts
Résumé
Goals Statement: Statement that describes the applicant's intent for applying to your program of choice
Two Letters of Recommendation
Pre-Screen Materials submitted through Slide Room. Refer to this link for detailed information regarding portfolio submission requirements. The link to SlideRoom will be provided to you when you apply. You will be able to submit your portfolio via SlideRoom after you have received your GNumber from the Office of Graduate Admissions. Contact CVPA Graduate Admissions if you have any questions.
Auditions or Interviews, if applicable for your concentration, will be scheduled after review of the pre-screen materials.

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

41124 USD / year

≈ 41124 USD / year
Out-of-State

18060 USD / year

≈ 18060 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18060 USD / year

≈ 18060 USD / year

Living costs

Fairfax

United States

1330 - 2300 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.

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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

Living costs

Fairfax

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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