Overview

The Music programme at Harvard University provides a prestigious dual-track pathway for students who wish to combine elite academic scholarship with professional conservatory training. This unique structure allows dedicated musicians to pursue a comprehensive liberal arts education while simultaneously developing their performance or composition skills at a world-class level.

Through established partnerships with the New England Conservatory and Berklee College of Music, students can bridge the gap between academic musicology and practical artistry. This integrated approach ensures that graduates emerge as well-rounded professionals capable of succeeding in diverse musical and intellectual environments.

Why Music at Harvard University?

Choosing this programme means accessing the vast resources of a world-renowned research institution alongside specialised conservatory instruction. Students benefit from a dual-campus experience, engaging with Harvard's extensive libraries and research facilities while receiving private studio instruction from industry-leading faculty at partner institutions.

The collaborative nature of the programme allows for a bespoke educational journey. Whether focusing on classical performance or contemporary styles, students are supported by a network of advisers from both the university and the conservatory, ensuring a seamless transition between undergraduate and postgraduate study levels.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 58400 per year
National fee: USD 58400 per year
Local fee: USD 58400 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to balance academic requirements with intensive musical practice. During the initial years, students focus on their university concentration while attending weekly studio sessions. The final stages of the programme involve advanced conservatory requirements and master-level coursework.

Modules may include:

Studio Instruction
Ensemble
Music Theory
Composition
General Education
Musicology
Performance Research

Careers with Music

Graduates of this dual-degree pathway are uniquely positioned for diverse careers within the global arts sector. The combination of a liberal arts foundation and a professional master's degree prepares students for roles as professional performers, composers, and conductors. Many alumni also find success in arts administration, music production, and academic research.

The programme's rigorous training ensures that students possess the technical proficiency and critical thinking skills required for the modern music industry. By leveraging the networks of both institutions, graduates can pursue opportunities in international orchestras, recording studios, and prestigious educational organisations worldwide.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory & Basic Notation

Soundtrack Industry Overview

Music Production

History of the Recording Industry

Composition for the Artist

Film Music Appreciation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Music View 1020 other Masters in Music in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

The program is open to high school students who apply to both institutions through the normal admissions process.

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

58400 USD / year

≈ 58400 USD / year
Out-of-State

58400 USD / year

≈ 58400 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

58400 USD / year

≈ 58400 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

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

Financing

Interested in financing your studies? Find a student loan that works for you.

MPOWER Financing No cosigner. No collateral. No hidden fees.

Check your Eligibility

Get the funding you need to study in the U.S. or Canada - with a process that's fast, simple, and built for international students.

Flexible loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000
Fixed interest rates -- no inflation surprises
No upfront fees or prepayment penalties
Accepted at 500+ universities across the U.S. & Canada
100% online application -- instant conditional offer
Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

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.

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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