Overview

The Music - Performance programme at the University of South Carolina provides postgraduate students with an intensive environment to refine their artistic craft and technical proficiency. This degree is specifically designed to cultivate the professional skills required for high-level solo and ensemble performance or private studio instruction. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances practical artistry with academic rigour in musicology and theory.

Why Music - Performance at University of South Carolina?

The School of Music has maintained prestigious accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music since 1969, ensuring a high standard of excellence. Students receive personalised attention from a distinguished faculty and have the unique opportunity to engage with new compositions regularly. A standout feature is the community engagement concentration, a nationally recognised initiative that allows performers to connect their artistry with social impact. Additionally, the Spark: Music Leadership laboratory provides a supportive environment for creative exploration and professional skill development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 572 per credit
National fee: USD 572 per credit
Local fee: USD 572 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires students to demonstrate mastery through one-on-one instruction and academic study. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Music History
Repertoire
Pedagogy
Performance
Community Engagement

Candidates must also successfully present a full recital and pass a comprehensive oral examination to complete the degree requirements.

Careers with Music - Performance

Graduates are equipped for diverse roles within the global arts and entertainment sectors. Many alumni secure positions as professional musicians, artistic directors, or band directors. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing careers in music education, with former students working as adjunct professors or instrumental music directors. Employment settings range from prestigious orchestras and opera companies to academic institutions and private music academies. Notable employers of past graduates include:

Aiken Youth Orchestras
Opera Carolina
Charleston Academy of Music
Cornell College
Lexington County School District One

The degree also serves as a primary gateway for those intending to pursue a Doctorate in Music Performance.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Bibliography and Research
Solo Recital
Chamber Music
Music History

Music Theory
Performance

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-05-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

32 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Columbia, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Performance View 329 other Masters in Music Performance in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

GMAT

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Audition
Official Transcripts
Official Test Score (GRE or MAT)
TOEFL/IELTS Score (international students)
3 Letters of Recommendation
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
Writing Sample(s)

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

18304 USD / year

≈ 18304 USD / year
Out-of-State

18304 USD / year

≈ 18304 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18304 USD / year

≈ 18304 USD / year

Living costs

Columbia

United States

999 - 1508 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 - Performance.

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

Living costs

Columbia

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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