College of Music

All degree programs in the College of Music are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

All students in Bachelor of Music degree programs in the College of Music must successfully pass an Upper Division Performance Examination as a prerequisite for enrollment into applied music at the 300-level. The examination is administered by the faculty of the area of study at the conclusion of the fourth semester of applied music at the 100-level.

In addition to meeting the requirements for admission to the university, acceptance into an undergraduate program in the College of Music requires satisfactory performance on a major instrument or in voice as determined by audition.

Candidates who wish to major in composition must submit a portfolio for review and approval by the area faculty.

Transfer credit in music theory and music performance is validated by examination. Transfer credit in other music courses must have the approval of the College of Music.

General Requirements for All of the Bachelor's Degree Programs in the College of Music

1. Completion of at least 56 credits acceptable to the college.
2. An academic record in all work accepted by the college which meets the requirements of  Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students.
3. Acceptance into a degree program in the college.

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of the catalog.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Arts degree that are listed below:
   1. Courses used to satisfy the University Integrative Studies requirement cannot be counted in the fulfillment of any other requirement.
   2. The specific requirements, including a capstone experience, of a major leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree in the College.
   3. Second–year competency in a foreign language. This requirement may be satisfied by placing into a 300–level foreign language course based on a Michigan State University  placement test.
   4. Cognate requirement:
      Students must complete two cognates of 12 credits each. Both the cognates and the related courses must be approved by the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies in the College of Music.
      (1)    The courses in each cognate shall be in a single discipline or thematic area.
      (2)    At least one of the cognates must be in a field outside the College of Music .
      (3)     One 300 or 400 level course of at least 3 credits must be included in one of the cognates.
      (4)     Courses at the 300–400 level in the same language that were used to satisfy the foreign language requirement described
                  above in 1.c., or courses at the 100–200 level in another foreign language, may be counted toward this requirement.
   5. Credit requirement:
      (1)    At least 30 credits in courses at the 300 level and above.
      (2)    At least 30, but not more than 54 credits in Music courses including credits in 100-200 level courses in music performance 
                  and ensemble and 100-level courses in music theory.
      (3)    A minimum grade-point average of 2.0 in courses in the major that count toward the degree.

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education  section of the catalog.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Music degree that are listed below:
   1. Courses used to satisfy the University Integrative Studies requirement cannot be counted in the fulfillment of any other requirement.
   2. The specific requirements, including a capstone experience, of a major leading to the  Bachelor of Music degree in the College of Music.
   3. Credit requirement.
      (1)    At least 30 credits in courses at the 300 level and above.
   4. A minimum grade–point average of 2.0 in all of the Music courses that count toward the degree.

The College of Music encourages honors students to develop distinctive undergraduate programs. The Director of Student Affairs serves as advisor to Honors College students, and it is the advisor’s responsibility to help the student plan a rigorous and balanced program which will also reflect the student’s special interests and competencies.

The college offers honors opportunities, chiefly through Honors Options in courses, private lessons, and seminars at both introductory and advanced levels.  These agreements, through prior arrangement, permit the student to earn Honors credit for specialized study beyond the usual requirements of the course.

Any combining of jazz and classical private lessons will be determined on an individual basis by the respective applied areas. This policy will serve to assure that sufficient attention is given to the acquisition of the necessary repertoire and skills, especially in the primary area. If a student wishes to change from classical to jazz or vice versa, an audition will be required prior to the final decision.

The Bachelor of Music degree program in composition is designed for students who are interested in obtaining an introduction to the technique of composition and for students who are preparing for advanced study in composition, music theory, or musicology.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree in Composition

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog;  120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Composition.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Composition major is met by completing Music 381. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Music degree.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	Capstone experience.
   	Preparation and direction of a half-hour recital of original compositions during the senior year.  Compositions for several performing media should be included in the recital.  The student must demonstrate a command of compositional technique to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty.
   b.	The courses that are listed above under the heading General Requirements for All of the Bachelor's Degree Programs in the College of Music (26 credits).
   c.	Music activity requirement (8 credits):
   	All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in composition are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. Music majors must perform an audition for placement into an ensemble in order to receive ensemble credit toward their degree. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Students who are enrolled in the composition major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. However, no more than 8 credits that are related to the major ensemble requirement may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   d.	Piano proficiency requirement (2 credits):
   	All students in the Bachelor of Music degree program in composition whose performance area is not piano are required to demonstrate proficiency in piano to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty.
   		Students are required to complete a minimum of 2 credits of Music 150M. Any credits earned in Music 150M beyond 2 credits will not count towards the degree program. Students who take the piano proficiency examination and place into Music 150M may take the Music 150M waiver examination on a one-time basis. For the waiver examination, students will be required to play all of the selections required in the piano proficiency examination prior to enrolling in Music 150M. The piano proficiency examination may only be taken while the student is enrolled in Music 150M.
   			Students will take a placement examination before beginning any piano courses. The placement examination will determine the appropriate placement in Music 141, 142 or 150M. Students choosing to enroll without taking the placement examination, may only enroll in Music 141.
   e.	Complete the requirements for one of the following 5 performance areas (12 credits):
   	(1)	Piano (12 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in piano.  This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 150A and 4 credits of Music 350A (12 credits).
   	(2)	Stringed Instruments:  Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass (12 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in harp, violin, viola, cello, or double bass.  This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 8 credits in the 100–level course and 4 credits in the 300–level course:  Music 150C, 350C; 152A, 352A; 152B, 352B; 152C, 352C; 152D, 352D (12 credits).
   	(3)	Wind Instruments:  Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba (12 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 8 credits in the 100–level course and 4 credits in the 300–level course: Music 153A, 353A; 153B, 353B; 153C, 353C; 153D, 353D; 153E, 353E; 154A, 354A; 154B, 354B; 154C, 354C; 154D, 354D; 154E, 354E (12 credits).
   	(4)	Percussion Instruments (12 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in percussion instruments. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 155 and 4 credits of Music 355 (12 credits).
   	(5)	Voice (12 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in voice.  This requirement must be met by completing 6 credits of Music 151 and 4 credits of Music 351 (10 credits).
   		(b)	Both of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	143	English Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	144	Italian Diction for Singers		1
   f.	All of the following courses (20 credits):
   	MUS	335	Ensemble Conducting I				2
   	MUS	380	Musical Styles and Forms				3
   	MUS	441	Introduction to Computer Music				3
   	MUS	480	Counterpoint				2
   	MUS	483	Composition				8
   	MUS	484	Instrumentation and Basic Orchestration				2
   g.	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   	MUS	336A	Ensemble Conducting II:  Instrumental				2
   	MUS	336B	Ensemble Conducting II:  Choral				2
   h.	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   	MUS	410	Jazz History				2
   	MUS	413	Keyboard Literature to Mid-19th Century				2
   	MUS	414	Keyboard Literature since the Mid–19th Century				2
   	MUS	415	Art Song Literature: German				2
   	MUS	416	Art Song Literature: French, Spanish, and Italian				2
   	MUS	417	Art Song Literature: British and American				2
   	MUS	418	Opera and Oratorio Aria Repertoire				2
   	MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century				2
   	MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	423	History of Opera				2
   	MUS	424	Women in Music				2

The Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies is a professional degree program. It includes the common core courses of all other Bachelor of Music degree programs and the shared objectives of musical literacy, development of aural skills, understanding of a broad repertoire, and attainment of analytical skills. Uniquely, this program seeks to develop a high level of competency in jazz performance, and in compositional, scoring, and arranging skills. It also strives to prepare individuals to understand the literature and historical and cultural context of jazz.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree in Jazz Studies

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies.
   
   The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Jazz Studies major is met by completing Music 381. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Music degree.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	All of the core courses that are listed above under the heading General Requirements for All of the Bachelor’s Degree Programs in the College of Music (26 credits)
   b.	Music activity requirement (8 credits)
   	All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in jazz studies are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Students who are enrolled in the jazz studies major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement.
   c.	Complete the requirements for one of the following five performance areas (16 credits):
   	(1)	Piano (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in piano. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 150J and 8 credits of Music 350J.
   	(2)	Stringed Instruments: Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in harp, violin, viola, cello or double bass. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 152J and 8 credits of Music 352J.
   	(3)	Wind Instruments: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium and Tuba (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 153J and 8 credits of Music 353J or 8 credits of Music 154J and 8 credits of Music 354J.
   	(4)	Percussion Instruments (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in percussion instruments. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 155J and 8 credits of Music 355J.
   	(5)	Voice (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in voice. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 151J and 8 credits of Music 351J.
   d.	All of the following courses (26 credits):
   	MUS	131	Jazz Combo				2
   	MUS	185	Jazz Styles and Analysis I				2
   	MUS	186	Jazz Styles and Analysis II				2
   	MUS	301	Advanced Jazz Musicianship I				3
   	MUS	302	Advanced Jazz Musicianship II				3
   	MUS	303	Advanced Jazz Musicianship III				3
   	MUS	304	Advanced Jazz Musicianship IV				3
   	MUS	400	Jazz Arranging and Composition I				2
   	MUS	401	Jazz Arranging and Composition II				2
   	MUS	410	Jazz History				2
   	MUS	438	Jazz Pedagogy I				2
   	MUS	439	Jazz Pedagogy II				2
   e.	Complete 6 additional credits of jazz electives as approved by the student’s academic advisor.

The Bachelor of Arts degree program with a major in music is a liberal arts program with a strong emphasis in music.  It may fulfill the requirements for entrance into a Master of Music program; it does not provide preparation for teacher certification in music.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Music.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Music major is met by completing Music 381. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	One of the following two options:
   	(1)	Perform a senior recital that is satisfactory to the appropriate faculty.
   	(2)	Submit a paper that is satisfactory to the appropriate faculty. The topic of the paper must be approved by the College of Music Curriculum Committee.
   			The successful completion of this requirement satisfies the capstone experience requirement for the music major.
   b.	The courses that are listed above under the heading General Requirements for All of the Bachelor's Degree Programs in the College of Music with the exception of Music 282 and 283 (24 credits)
   c.	Music activity requirement (4 credits):
   	All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts degree program in music are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during four semesters of their enrollment in the program. Music majors must perform an audition for placement into an ensemble in order to receive ensemble credit toward their degree.
   d.	Music proficiency requirement.
   	All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts degree program in music are required to demonstrate proficiency in the performance area that the student selects to satisfy requirement 3.e. below. Students who have completed 4 credits in the 100–level private instruction course in their performance area, but who have not yet demonstrated proficiency to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty, must continue to enroll in the 100–level private instruction course until they have met the proficiency requirement. However, no more than 4 credits in the 100–level private instruction course may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   		All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts degree program in music must successfully complete an Upper Division Performance Examination as required by their specific area in order to enroll in 300-level lessons. Those who do not pass this examination must continue to enroll in the 100-level private instruction course until it is passed.  However, no more than four credits in the 100-level private instruction course may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   e.	Complete the requirements for one of the following five performance areas (8 or 10 credits)
   	(1)	Piano  (8 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in piano. This requirement must be met by completing 4 credits of Music 150A and 4 credits of Music 350A (8 credits).
   	(2)	Stringed Instruments:  Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass (8 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in harp, violin, viola, cello, or double bass.  This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 4 credits in the 100–level course and 4 credits in the 300–level course: Music 150C, 350C; 152A, 352A; 152B, 352B; 152C, 352C; 152D, 352D (8 credits).
   	(3)	Wind Instruments:  Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba (8 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 4 credits in the 100–level course and 4 credits in the 300–level course: Music 153A, 353A; 153B, 353B; 153C, 353C; 153D, 353D; 153E, 353E; 154A, 354A; 154B, 354B; 154C, 354C; 154D, 354D; 154E, 354E (8 credits).
   	(4)	Percussion Instruments (8 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in percussion instruments. This requirement must be met by completing 4 credits of Music 155 and 4 credits of Music 355 (8 credits).
   	(5)	Voice (10 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in voice.  This requirement must be met by completing 4 credits of Music 151 and 4 credits of Music 351 (8 credits).
   		(b)	Both of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	143	English Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	144	Italian Diction for Singers		1
   f.	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   	MUS	410	Jazz History				2
   	MUS	413	Keyboard Literature to Mid-19th Century				2
   	MUS	414	Keyboard Literature since the Mid–19th Century				2
   	MUS	415	Art Song Literature:  German				2
   	MUS	416	Art Song Literature:  French, Spanish, and Italian				2
   	MUS	417	Art Song Literature: British and American				2
   	MUS	419	Baroque Music				2
   	MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century				2
   	MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	423	History of Opera				2
   	MUS	424	Women in Music				2

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education provides for the comprehensive training of music teachers. It allows students to develop a program of study tailored to their interests and needs as teachers. Students are encouraged to develop their musicianship through ensembles, private lessons, conducting classes, the creative musicianship component, and a wide variety of instrumental and voice classes. Students develop their skills as educators in courses that begin in the freshman year and culminate in a student teaching/professional development semester. Graduates of this program will be able to plan, implement, and assess music instruction in a variety of instructional settings and for a variety of student populations.

The B.M. in Music Education degree leads to music teacher certification by the State of Michigan in grades K-12. To be recommended for certification, persons must complete all course requirements and any additional standards or tests set forth by the Department of Teacher Education or the Michigan Department of Education.

A jazz studies minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in the bachelor's degree program in music education.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education

1. The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 128 to 140 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with piano as the performance area, whereas 130 to 142 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with stringed instruments, wind instruments, percussion, or voice as the performing area. For the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education with jazz as the performing area, 136 to 146 credits are required.
   
   The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Music Education major is met by completing Music 381. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Music degree.
   
   The completion of Music 495 satisfies the capstone experience requirement for the Music Education major.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	All of the core courses that are listed above under the heading General Requirements for All of the Bachelor’s Degree  Programs in the College of Music (26 credits)
   b.	Music activity requirement (8 credits)
   	All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music education are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Students who are enrolled in the music education major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. Students for whom a jazz instrument is their primary performance focus must participate in a band/wind ensemble, choir, or non-jazz orchestra for at least two of these semesters.
   c.	Complete the requirements for one of the following four performance areas (16 to 22 credits):
   	(1)	Piano (16 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in piano. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 150A and 8 credits of Music 350A.
   	(2)	Stringed Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, and Harp; Wind Instruments: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba; and Percussion Instruments (18 credits)
   		(a)	Private instruction in violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion instruments. This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 8 credits in the 100-level course and 8 credits in the 300-level course: Music 152A and 352A; 152B and 352B; 152C and 352C; 152D and 352D; 150C and 350C; 153A and 353A; 153B and 353B; 153C and 353C; 153D and 353D; 153E and 353E; 154A and 354A; 154B and 354B; 154C and 354C; 154D and 354D; 154E and 354E; 155 and 355 (16 credits)
   		(b)	Both of the following courses (2 credits):
   			For students who have studied piano previously, this requirement may be waived by examination.
   			MUS	141	Class Instruction in Piano I		1
   			MUS	142	Class Instruction in Piano II		1
   	(3)	Voice (18 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in voice. This requirement must be met by completing 8 credits of Music 151 and 6 credits of Music 351 (14 credits)
   		(b)	Both of the following courses (2 credits):
   			For students who have studied piano previously, this requirement may be waived by examination.
   			MUS	141	Class Instruction in Piano I		1
   			MUS	142	Class Instruction in Piano II		1
   		(c)	Both of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	248	German Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	249	French Diction for Singers		1
   	(4)	Jazz Instruments:  Piano: Jazz, Woodwind Instruments (flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon); Jazz, Brass Instruments (trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba); Jazz, Stringed Instruments; Jazz, Percussion Instruments; Jazz (20 to 22 credits)
   		(a)	Private Instruction in Piano: Jazz, Woodwind Instruments: Jazz, Brass Instruments: Jazz, Stringed Instruments: Jazz, Percussion Instruments: Jazz. This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 8 credits in the 100-level course and 8 credits in the 300-level course: MUS 150J and MUS 350J; MUS 152J and MUS 352J; MUS 153J and MUS 353J; MUS 154J and MUS 354J; MUS 155J and MUS 355J.
   		(b)	One of the following two-semester sequences (4 or 6 credits):
   			(i)   MUS	230	Beginning Jazz Improvisation I		2
   			MUS	231	Beginning Jazz Improvisation II		2
   			(ii)  MUS	301	Advanced Jazz Musicianship I		3
   			MUS	302	Advanced Jazz Musicianship II		3
   d.	Two of the following courses (4 to 6 credits):
   	MUS	112	Chamber Music				2
   	MUS	131	Jazz Combo				2
   	MUS	150J	Piano: Jazz				2
   	MUS	151J	Voice: Jazz				2
   	MUS	152J	Stringed Instruments: Jazz				2
   	MUS	153J	Woodwind Instruments: Jazz				2
   	MUS	154J	Brass Instruments: Jazz				2
   	MUS	155J	Percussion Instruments: Jazz				2
   	MUS	210	Song Writing				2
   	MUS	230	Beginning Jazz Improvisation I				2
   	MUS	231	Beginning Jazz Improvisation II				2
   	MUS	301	Advanced Jazz Musicianship I				3
   	MUS	302	Advanced Jazz Musicianship II				3
   	MUS	303	Advanced Jazz Musicianship III				3
   	MUS	304	Advanced Jazz Musicianship IV				3
   	MUS	441	Introduction to Computer Music				3
   	MUS	483	Composition				2
   	MUS	484	Instrumentation and Basic Orchestration				2
   	Courses used to fulfill this requirement may not be used to fulfill requirement 3. c. above.
   e.	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   	MUS	410	Jazz History				2
   	MUS	413	Keyboard Literature to Mid-19th Century				2
   	MUS	414	Keyboard Literature since the Mid-19th Century				2
   	MUS	415	Art Song Literature: German				2
   	MUS	416	Art Song Literature: French, Spanish and Italian				2
   	MUS	417	Art Song Literature: British and American				2
   	MUS	419	Baroque Music				2
   	MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century				2
   	MUS	421	19th Century European-American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	422	20th Century European-American Music Literature				2
   	MUS	423	History of Opera				2
   	MUS	424	Music, Sexuality, and Gender				2
   f.	All of the following courses (32 credits):
   	MUS	163	Class Instruction in Clarinet				1
   	MUS	171	Class Instruction in Stringed Instruments I				1
   	MUS	173	Class Instruction in Percussion Instruments I				1
   	MUS	177	Introduction to Music Education				2
   	MUS	277	Principles of Music Education				3
   	MUS	335	Ensemble Conducting I				2
   	MUS	495	Student Teaching in Music				9
   	TE	150	Reflections on Learning				3
   	TE	250	Human Diversity, Power, and Opportunity in Social Institutions				3
   	TE	302	Learners and Learning in Context - Secondary (W)				4
   	TE	496	Becoming a School Music Teacher				3
   	Students who take MUS 153C and MUS 353C to satisfy the requirement 3. c. 2. (a) above must complete MUS 162 Class Instruction in Flute and Saxophone in lieu of MUS 163.
   g.	One of the following courses:
   	Students whose performance area is voice must take:
   	MUS	143	English Diction for Singers				1
   	Students whose performance area is not voice must take:
   	MUS	145	Class Instruction in Voice I				1
   h.	One of the following courses:
   	MUS	165	Class Instruction in High Brass Instruments				1
   	MUS	166	Class Instruction in Low Brass Instruments				1
   i.	Three of the following courses:
   	Students whose performance area is voice must take Music 144 as one of the electives. Students who wish to teach bands are strongly encouraged to take Music 162, 164, 174, and 165 or 166. Students who wish to teach strings are strongly encouraged to take Music 172. Students who wish to teach choral or general music are strongly encouraged to take Music 160, 241 and 242. The electives selected cannot include the course used to satisfy section 3. h. above.
   	MUS	144	Italian Diction for Singers				1
   	MUS	160	Class Instruction in Guitar				1
   	MUS	162	Class Instruction in Flute and Saxophone				1
   	MUS	164	Class Instruction in Double Reed Instruments				1
   	MUS	165	Class Instruction in High Brass Instruments				1
   	MUS	166	Class Instruction in Low Brass Instruments				1
   	MUS	172	Class Instruction in Stringed Instruments II				1
   	MUS	174	Class Instruction in Percussion Instruments II				1
   	MUS	241	Advanced Class Instruction in Piano I				1
   	MUS	242	Advanced Class Instruction in Piano II				1
   j.	One of the following courses:
   	MUS	336A	Ensemble Conducting II: Instrumental				2
   	MUS	336B	Ensemble Conducting II: Choral				2
   k.	One of the following courses:
   	MUS	455	Teaching Instrumental Music				3
   	MUS	456	Teaching Stringed Instruments				3
   	MUS	468	Teaching Choral Music				3
   l.	One of the following courses:
   	MUS	467	Teaching General Music in the Elementary School				3
   	MUS	469	Teaching Secondary Classroom Music				3
   m.	Two courses from the following (4 to 6 credits):
   	The electives selected must be different from those courses used to satisfy sections 3. j., 3. k., and 3. l. above.
   	MUS	336A	Ensemble Conducting II: Instrumental				2
   	MUS	336B	Ensemble Conducting II: Choral				2
   	MUS	340	Methods and Literature for Voice				3
   	MUS	341	String Pedagogy				2
   	MUS	438	Jazz Pedagogy I				2
   	MUS	455	Teaching Instrumental Music				3
   	MUS	456	Teaching Stringed Instruments				3
   	MUS	461	Marching Band Methods				2
   	MUS	465	Music in Early Childhood				2
   	MUS	467	Teaching General Music in the Elementary School				3
   	MUS	468	Teaching Choral Music				3
   	MUS	469	Teaching Secondary Classroom Music				3

The Bachelor of Music degree in music performance requires concentrated study in one of the following five performance areas:  piano, stringed instruments, wind instruments, percussion instruments, or voice.  Students who select stringed instruments or wind instruments as their performance area choose one instrument as their major instrument.

Students who do not meet the minimal standards of musicianship of the College of Music may need to be enrolled in the bachelor's degree program in music performance more than the usual four years in order to qualify for a degree.

A Specialization in Piano Pedagogy is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in the bachelor's degree program in music performance with piano as the performance area.

A jazz studies minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in the bachelor's degree program in music performance.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Performance

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 to 132 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Performance.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Music Performance major is met by completing Music 381. That course is referenced in item 3. c. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Music for the Bachelor of Music degree.
3. The following requirements for the major:

   a.	Demonstrate a high standard of excellence, proficiency in public performance, and a substantial repertoire in one of the five performance areas, as judged by the appropriate faculty.
   b.	Perform a senior recital that is satisfactory to the appropriate faculty.  The successful completion of the senior recital satisfies the capstone experience requirement for the music performance major.
   c.	The courses that are listed above under the heading General Requirements for All of the Bachelor's Degree Programs in the College of Music (26 credits).
   d.	Complete the requirements for one of the following five performance areas (46 to 64 credits):
   	(1)	Piano  (52 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in piano.  This requirement must be met by completing 12 credits of Music 150A and 12 credits of Music 350A (24 credits).  A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 for the 24 credits of Music 150A and 350A is required.
   		(b)	All of the following courses (24 credits):
   			MUS	112	Chamber Music		2
   			MUS	149	Keyboard Skills		1
   			MUS	337	Conducting for Music Performance Majors		1
   			MUS	346	Keyboard Methods and Literature I		2
   			MUS	347	Keyboard Methods and Literature II		2
   			MUS	348	Piano Accompanying		6
   			MUS	349	Piano Performance		6
   			MUS	413	Keyboard Literature to Mid–19th Century		2
   			MUS	414	Keyboard Literature since the Mid–19th Century		2
   		(c)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	410	Jazz History		2
   			MUS	415	Art Song Literature: German		2
   			MUS	416	Art Song Literature: French, Spanish and Italian		2
   			MUS	417	Art Song Literature: British and American		2
   			MUS	418	Opera and Oratorio Aria Literature		2
   			MUS	419	Baroque Music		2
   			MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century		2
   			MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	423	History of Opera		2
   			MUS	424	Women in Music		2
   		(d)	Music activity requirement (2 credits):
   			All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is piano are required to complete 2 credits in a major ensemble.
   			Piano majors, for their one year of ensemble participation, are allowed to choose from any major ensemble in the College of Music.
   	(2)	Stringed Instruments:  Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass (50 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in harp, violin, viola, cello, or double bass.  This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 12 credits in the 100–level course and 12 credits in the 300–level course:  Music 150C, 350C; 152A, 352A; 152B, 352B; 152C, 352C; 152D, 352D (24 credits). A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 for the 24 credits in the pair of courses is required.
   		(b)	Music activity requirement (8 credits):
   			All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Performance majors are required to audition for and be placed into an ensemble within their specific area of expertise, i.e. instrumentalists must audition for instrumental ensembles and voice majors must audition for choral ensembles. Students who are enrolled in the music performance major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. However, no more than 8 credits that are related to the major ensemble requirement may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   		(c)	Piano proficiency requirement (2 credits):
   			All students in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to demonstrate proficiency in piano to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty. Students are required to complete a minimum of 2 credits of MUS 150M. Any credits earned in Music 150M beyond 2 credits will not count towards the degree program. Students who take the piano proficiency examination and place into Music 150M may take the Music 150M waiver examination on a one-time basis. For the waiver examination, students will be required to play all of the selections required in the piano proficiency examination prior to enrolling in Music 150M. The piano proficiency examination may only be taken while the student is enrolled in Music 150M.
   			Students will take a placement examination before beginning any piano courses. The placement examination will determine the appropriate placement in Music 141, 142 or 150M.  Students choosing to enroll without taking the placement examination may only enroll in Music 141.
   		(d)	All of the following courses (12 credits):
   			MUS	112	Chamber Music		4
   			MUS	337	Conducting for Music Performance Majors		1
   			MUS	341	String Pedagogy		2
   			MUS	380	Musical Styles and Forms		3
   			MUS	434	Orchestral Musicianship		2
   		(e)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	410	Jazz History		2
   			MUS	419	Baroque Music		2
   			MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century		2
   			MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	423	History of Opera		2
   			MUS	424	Women in Music		2
   		(f)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	480	Counterpoint		2
   			MUS	484	Instrumentation and Basic Orchestration		2
   	(3)	Wind Instruments:  Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba (46 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. This requirement must be met by completing one of the following pairs of courses, with 12 credits in the 100–level course and 12 credits in the 300–level course:  Music 153A, 353A; 153B, 353B; 153C, 353C; 153D, 353D; 153E, 353E; 154A, 354A; 154B, 354B; 154C, 354C; 154D, 354D; 154E, 354E (24 credits).  A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 for the 24 credits in the pair of courses is required.
   		(b)	Music activity requirement (8 credits):
   			All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Performance majors are required to audition for and be placed into an ensemble within their specific area of expertise, i.e. instrumentalists must audition for instrumental ensembles and voice majors must audition for choral ensembles. Students who are enrolled in the music performance major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. However, no more than 8 credits that are related to the major ensemble requirement may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   		(c)	Piano proficiency requirement (2 credits):
   			All students in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to demonstrate proficiency in piano to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty. Students are required to complete a minimum of 2 credits of MUS 150M. Any credits earned in Music 150M beyond 2 credits will not count towards the degree program. Students who take the piano proficiency examination and place into Music 150M may take the Music 150M waiver examination on a one-time basis. For the waiver examination, students will be required to play all of the selections required in the piano proficiency examination prior to enrolling in Music 150M. The piano proficiency examination may only be taken while the student is enrolled in Music 150M.
   			Students will take a placement examination before beginning any piano courses. The placement examination will determine the appropriate placement in Music 141, 142 or 150M.  Students choosing to enroll without taking the placement examination may only enroll in Music 141.
   		(d)	All of the following courses (8 credits):
   			MUS	112	Chamber Music		4
   			MUS	337	Conducting for Music Performance Majors		1
   			MUS	380	Musical Styles and Forms		3
   		(e)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	410	Jazz History		2
   			MUS	419	Baroque Music		2
   			MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century		2
   			MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	423	History of Opera		2
   			MUS	424	Women in Music		2
   		(f)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	480	Counterpoint		2
   			MUS	484	Instrumentation and Basic Orchestration		2
   	(4)	Percussion Instruments (50 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in percussion instruments. This requirement must be met by completing 12 credits of Music 155 and 12 credits of Music 355 (24 credits). A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 for the 24 credits of Music 155 and 355 is required.
   		(b)	Music activity requirement (8 credits):
   			All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Performance majors are required to audition for and be placed into an ensemble within their specific area of expertise, i.e. instrumentalists must audition for instrumental ensembles and voice majors must audition for choral ensembles. Students who are enrolled in the music performance major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. However, no more than 8 credits that are related to the major ensemble requirement may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   		(c)	Piano proficiency requirement (2 credits):
   			All students in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to demonstrate proficiency in piano to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty. Students are required to complete a minimum of 2 credits of MUS 150M. Any credits earned in Music 150M beyond 2 credits will not count towards the degree program. Students who take the piano proficiency examination and place into Music 150M may take the Music 150M waiver examination on a one-time basis. For the waiver examination, students will be required to play all of the selections required in the piano proficiency examination prior to enrolling in Music 150M. The piano proficiency examination may only be taken while the student is enrolled in Music 150M.
   			Students will take a placement examination before beginning any piano courses. The placement examination will determine the appropriate placement in Music 141, 142 or 150M.  Students choosing to enroll without taking the placement examination may only enroll in Music 141.
   		(d)	All of the following courses (12 credits):
   			MUS	129	Percussion Ensemble		4
   			MUS	337	Conducting for Music Performance Majors		1
   			MUS	380	Musical Styles and Forms		3
   			MUS	491	Special Topics in Music		4
   			To be counted toward this requirement, the content of Music 491 must focus on studio teaching of percussion instruments or on percussion literature.
   		(e)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	410	Jazz History		2
   			MUS	419	Baroque Music		2
   			MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century		2
   			MUS	421	19th Century European–American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	423	History of Opera		2
   			MUS	424	Women in Music		2
   		(f)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	480	Counterpoint		2
   			MUS	484	Instrumentation and Basic Orchestration		2
   	(5)	Voice  (52 to 64 credits):
   		(a)	Private instruction in voice.  This requirement must be met by completing 12 credits of Music 151 and 12 credits of Music 351 (24 credits).  A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 for the 24 credits of Music 151 and 351 is required.
   		(b)	Music activity requirement (8 credits):
   			All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to participate in a major ensemble as designated by the College of Music during each fall and spring semester of enrollment in the program. A minimum of 8 credits in courses approved by the College of Music is required. Performance majors are required to audition for and be placed into an ensemble within their specific area of expertise, i.e. instrumentalists must audition for instrumental ensembles and voice majors must audition for choral ensembles. Students who are enrolled in the music performance major for more than eight semesters are required to complete more than 8 credits to satisfy this requirement. However, no more than 8 credits that are related to the major ensemble requirement may be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
   		(c)	Piano proficiency requirement (2 credits):
   			All students in the Bachelor of Music degree program in music performance whose performance area is not piano are required to demonstrate proficiency in piano to the satisfaction of the appropriate faculty. Students are required to complete a minimum of 2 credits of MUS 150M. Any credits earned in Music 150M beyond 2 credits will not count towards the degree program. Students who take the piano proficiency examination and place into Music 150M may take the Music 150M waiver examination on a one-time basis. For the waiver examination, students will be required to play all of the selections required in the piano proficiency examination prior to enrolling in Music 150M. The piano proficiency examination may only be taken while the student is enrolled in Music 150M.
   			Students will take a placement examination before beginning any piano courses. The placement examination will determine the appropriate placement in Music 141, 142 or 150M.  Students choosing to enroll without taking the placement examination may only enroll in Music 141.
   		(d)	Foreign language requirement (0 to 12 credits):
   			All of the following courses (12 credits):
   			FRN	101	Elementary French I		4
   			GRM	101	Elementary German I		4
   			ITL	101	Elementary Italian I		4
   			Students who speak or have studied French, German, or Italian and wish to waive this requirement for any of those languages must demonstrate, by a placement test, proficiency for placement in the French, german or Italian 102 course.
   		(e)	All of the following courses (13 credits):
   			MUS	143	English Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	144	Italian Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	248	German Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	249	French Diction for Singers		1
   			MUS	337	Conducting for Music Performance Majors		1
   			MUS	340	Methods and Literature for Voice		3
   			MUS	415	Art Song Literature:  German		2
   			MUS	416	Art Song Literature:  French, Spanish Italian		2
   			MUS	435	Opera Theatre		1
   		(f)	One of the following courses (1 credit):
   			MUS	481	Acting for Singers		1
   			MUS	482	Opera Scene Study		1
   		(g)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	417	Art Song Literature: British and American		2
   			MUS	418	Opera and Oratorio Aria Repertoire		2
   		(h)	One of the following courses (2 credits):
   			MUS	410	Jazz History		2
   			MUS	419	Baroque Music		2
   			MUS	420	Music of the 18th Century		2
   			MUS	421	19th Century European-American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	422	20th Century European and American Music Literature		2
   			MUS	423	History of Opera		2
   			MUS	424	Women in Music		2

This minor is designed to prepare students for challenges encountered in the processes of teaching jazz musicianship. Through analysis of their own learning and study of several role models and mentors students employ techniques that impart and sustain basic principles that are necessary for the development of jazz study. This minor will concentrate on the refinement of skills used in private instruction, rehearsal techniques for small jazz ensembles, and the development of structured techniques for use in classroom instruction. Students will apply their skills using colleagues and combos from the Michigan State University jazz program as subjects.

A jazz studies minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program in Music Education and the Bachelor of Music degree program in Music Performance. With the approval of the department and college that administers the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the minor may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. At least 12 unique credits counted towards the requirements for a student’s minor must not be used to fulfill the requirements for that student’s major.

Requirements for the Minor in Jazz Studies

A Specialization in Piano Pedagogy  is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Music degree program with a major in music performance and with piano as their performance area.  This specialization is designed to prepare students for careers as independent studio teachers.  Pedagogy students must demonstrate aptitude for teaching, as well as the ability to perform, as judged by the appropriate faculty of the College of Music.  Graduates who complete the piano pedagogy specialization are qualified for an associate certificate from the Michigan Music Teachers Association.

Requirements for the Specialization in Piano Pedagogy

The Minor in Music, which is administered by the College of Music, will provide students’ an understanding of the fundamental concepts of music.

This minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs at Michigan State University other than the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music and the Bachelor of Music Degree in Composition, the Bachelor of Music Degree in Jazz Studies, the Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education, the Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Performance, and the Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Therapy. With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the minor may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. At least 12 unique credits counted towards the requirements for a student’s minor must not be used to fulfill the requirements for that student’s major.

Admission

The minor in music requires an audition. Admission is competitive. Students who plan to complete the requirements of the minor should consult the undergraduate advisor in the College of Music.

Requirements for the Minor in Music

The College of Music offers a variety of programs leading to the Master of Arts, Master of Music, Doctor of Musical Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Within the framework approved by the faculty of the University and the College of Music, graduate programs are designed to respond to current professional and social needs and to students’ expectations and goals. The programs combine selected aspects of the following learning opportunities: requisite course work; outreach and teaching experiences; and production, performance, or research projects.

The College faculty and student body represent diverse backgrounds and cultures and work together to challenge past assumptions and set future directions in the arts.  An open and responsive learning environment continues to attract faculty, staff, and students from rich and varied cultural traditions into our educational community.

All of the graduate degree programs offered by the College of Music have been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.   

Each applicant must submit a College of Music application for graduate study, including a letter providing the applicant’s academic background and reasons for pursuing advanced study.  International applicants must fulfill the university’s English language proficiency requirement as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog or as specified by the specific degree program.  Individual master’s and doctoral degree programs may specify additional requirements for consideration for admission such as a sample of an applicant’s composition, a portfolio, or an audition, and/or an interview. 

Master of Music degree programs are offered in the following areas: Collaborative Piano, Jazz Studies, Music Performance, Music Composition, Music Conducting, Music Education, Music Performance, Music Theory, and Piano Pedagogy. The Master of Arts degree program is offered in the area of Musicology.

Admission

To be admitted to a master's degree program in the college on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. A minimum cumulative grade–point average of 2.80 for the undergraduate program of study, as well as have met the College requirements for admission to a master's degree program.
2. Received the approval of the faculty in the applicant's area of specialization.
3. A baccalaureate degree from a recognized educational institution.

Master's Orientation Examinations

All students who are admitted to master's degree programs in the College of Music must take the graduate orientation examination in music theory.  The results of this examination are used to place students in music theory courses.  Based on the results of this examination, a student may be required to complete two collateral courses in music theory, Music 200 and 201, in addition to meeting the requirements for a master's degree. These courses will not count toward degree requirements.

All students who are admitted to the Master of Music degree program in music education in the College of Music must also take the written master's orientation examination in music education.

Each student must take the orientation examination in music theory, and the orientation examination in music education if required, before the first day of classes of the student's first semester of enrollment in the program.

For additional information about the orientation examinations in music theory and music education, contact the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies.

Oral Final Certifying Examination

All students in master's degree programs in the college are required to pass an oral final certifying examination.  Oral final certifying examinations are given during fall and spring semesters, and may be given during a summer session with the approval of the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and every member of the student's examining committee. 

Academic Standards

A master’s student in the College of Music must:

1. maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00.
2. not accumulate deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in more than 8 credits in courses (excluding courses numbered 896, 897, 898, 899 or 996, 997, 998, 999).

If at the end of a semester a graduate student fails to meet one or both of the requirements specified above, the student shall receive a deficiency warning.  If the deficiency is not removed within one year, the graduate student will not be allowed to continue in the degree program.

A student may accumulate no more than 6 credits with a grade below 3.0 in courses that are to be counted toward the degree.
All deficiencies with regard to orientation examinations or entrance requirements, whether stated in terms of credits, courses, or performance standards, must be removed before the oral final certifying examination that is required for the master's degree is scheduled.
If the student fails the oral final certifying examination, the student shall be allowed to retake the examination only once, during the next Fall or Spring semester.

Transfer Credits

Transfer credits must have been completed within the time limit for the degree. As many as 9 semester credits of graduate course work (excluding research and thesis credits) may be transferred into a master’s degree program from other postsecondary accredited institutions of comparable academic quality, if they are appropriate to a student’s program and provided they were completed within the time limits approved for the earning of the degree desired at Michigan State University. The Associate Dean of Graduate Studies must grant approval. Only courses in which at least a 3.0 grade or its equivalent was received will be considered for transfer.

With the approval of the student’s academic advisor and the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, these transfer credits may fulfill specific MSU degree requirements; but not all transfer credits will necessarily fulfill specific MSU degree requirements.

Doctor of Musical Arts degree programs are offered in: Music Composition, Music Conducting, and Music Performance.  The Doctor of Philosophy degree program is offered in Music Education.

Admission

In addition to meeting the requirements of the University as described under Admission in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.

To be admitted to a doctoral degree program in the College of Music on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. a record of high academic achievement and demonstrate potential as a performer, conductor, composer, or research scholar acceptable to the program.
2. a master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
3. a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 in any previous graduate course work.

Admission on provisional status may be offered if the applicant’s record is incomplete or contains minor deficiencies in preparation.

Doctoral Orientation Examinations

The primary purpose of the doctoral orientation examinations is to aid the student's academic advisor and  guidance committee in planning the student's program of study.

All students who are admitted to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in music education must take the written doctoral orientation examination in music education.

All students who are admitted to doctoral degree programs in the College of Music other than music education must take the written doctoral orientation examinations in music history and music theory.

The examination in music history is given before the first day of classes in the fall semester. For additional information about the Doctoral Orientation Examination in Music History, contact the chair of the Music History Area. The Doctoral Orientation Examination in Music Theory is given before the first day of classes in the fall and spring semesters and the summer session. The results of this examination are used to place students in music theory courses. Based on the results of this examination, a student may be required to complete two collateral courses in music theory, Music 200 and 201. These courses will not count toward degree requirements. For additional information about the Doctoral Orientation Examination in Music Theory, contact the chair of the Music Theory Area.

Requirements for a Doctoral Degree

The student plans a program of study in consultation with a guidance committee, subject to the rules of college and the university.  For the composition of the committees, see the information below regarding specific degree programs.

Comprehensive Examinations

All students who are enrolled in the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in music education are required to take a comprehensive examination in the field of music education.

For students who are enrolled in the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program with majors in music composition, music conducting, and music performance, see the statements on those programs in the sections that follow.

The comprehensive examinations are given during fall and spring semesters, and may be given during the summer session at the discretion of the faculty in the areas of music history, music theory, and music education.

Final Oral Examination

The dissertation, composition, or scholarly paper on which the final oral examination is based must be submitted to the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and all of the members of the student's guidance committee no later than four weeks before the final oral examination. In cases where the final oral examination involves a lecture-recital and document, the student must pass the defense of the lecture-recital and the document before the lecture-recital can be performed. In cases where the final oral examination involves two lecture-recitals, the student must pass the defense of the lecture-recital before that lecture-recital can be performed.  Final oral examinations and performances of lecture–recitals are given during fall and spring semesters, and may be given during a summer session with the approval of the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and every member of the student's committee.

Academic Standards

A doctoral student in the College of Music must:

1. Maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00.
2. Not accumulate deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in more than 8 credits in courses (excluding courses numbered 896, 897, 898, 899 or 996, 997, 998,  999).

If at the end of a semester a graduate student fails to meet one or both of the requirements specified above, the student shall receive a deficiency warning.  If the deficiency is not removed within one year, the graduate student will not be allowed to continue in the degree program.

A student may accumulate no more than 6 credits with a grade below 3.0 in courses that are to be counted toward the degree.

Transfer Credits

Graduate credits may be transferred from other accredited institutions or international institutions of similar quality if they are appropriate to a student’s program and provided they were completed within the time limits approved for the earning of the degree desired at Michigan State University. The Associate Dean of Graduate Studies must grant approval.  Only graduate–level courses in which at least a 3.0 (B) grade was received will be considered for transfer.

With the approval of the Guidance Committee and the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, these transfer credits may fulfill specific Michigan State University degree requirements; but not all transfer credits will necessarily fulfill specific Michigan State University degree requirements.

College of Music Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

Should the student's guidance committee fail to accept the dissertation or  the student's performance on the final oral examination, the student shall be allowed to rewrite the dissertation or to retake the examination only once.  The dissertation must be rewritten or the examination must be retaken within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Music, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree in Collaborative Piano, an applicant must present a live performance audition before and be interviewed by a committee of faculty in the piano area, including the director of the collaborative piano program. For an applicant who has a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from Michigan State University, the live performance audition may be waived at the discretion of the faculty in the piano area. With the approval of the faculty in the piano area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high-quality audio recording of a recent performance including a solo piano work, one vocal-piano work, and one instrumental-piano work. An applicant who submits an audio recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition and an interview with the faculty in the piano area. The live performance and the interview must be completed before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program and must meet the requirements of the piano area.

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree in Collaborative Piano on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music performance that are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from Michigan State University or their equivalents. 
2. presented a live performance audition and interview acceptable to the committee of faculty from the piano area.

Requirements for the Master of Music in Collaborative Piano

The program is available only under Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for the degree. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor. The student must meet the requirements specified below:

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies, an applicant must present a live performance audition before a committee of faculty in the jazz studies area, including the director of the jazz studies program and take the Jazz Musicianship Proficiency Examination. For an applicant who has a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University, the live performance audition may be waived at the discretion of the faculty in the jazz studies area. With the approval of the faculty in the jazz studies area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high-quality audio recording of a recent jazz performance. An applicant who submits an audio recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition before the faculty in the jazz studies area and taking the Jazz Musicianship Proficiency Examination. The live performance and the proficiency examination must be completed before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program and must meet the requirements of the jazz studies area.

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies, music performance, or music education from a recognized educational institution.
2. presented a live performance audition that demonstrates technical and improvisational skill equivalent to the level of Music 304 Advanced Jazz Musicianship IV.
3. demonstrated proficiency in the knowledge of jazz theory and jazz piano proficiency by passing the Jazz Musicianship Proficiency Examination with a grade of 3.5 or better.

Requirements for the Master of Music in Jazz Studies

The program is available only under Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for the degree. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor. The student must meet the requirements specified below:

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree program in music composition, an applicant must submit to the College of Music at least two original compositions representative of the applicant's creative work.  Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to include in the application portfolio, audio CD or video recordings of performances of all musical scores they submit. "Live" recordings are preferred but MIDI realizations are acceptable.

To be admitted to the program on regular status, an applicant must have a bachelor's degree in music composition from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music composition that are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in composition at Michigan State University or their equivalents.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Music Composition

The program is available only under Plan A, for which an original composition is required in lieu of a thesis.  A total of 33 credits is required for the degree.  The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor.  The student must meet the requirements specified below:

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program in music composition, an applicant must submit to the College of Music two original compositions representative of the applicant’s creative work. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to include in the application portfolio audio CD or video recordings of performances of all musical scores they submit. “Live” recordings are preferred, but Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) realizations are acceptable.

To be admitted to the program on regular status, an applicant must have a master's degree in music composition from a recognized educational institution or a total of 30 credits of approved course work.

Guidance Committee

A faculty member in the area of music composition must serve as the chairperson of the student’s guidance committee. One additional faculty member in the area of music composition, one faculty member in the area of music theory, and one faculty member in the area of music history must also be members of the student’s guidance committee.

Requirements for the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Music Composition

Each student in the program has a major professor who provides instruction in music composition, oversees the preparation of the original composition, and oversees the final oral examination based upon that composition.

The student must:

1. Complete Music 830 Research Methods and Materials in Music and the courses in music composition, music theory, and music history that are specified by the student’s guidance committee.
2. Complete any cognate area and related courses that are specified by the student's guidance committee.
3. Pass the written comprehensive examinations in the fields of music composition and either music history or music theory.
4. Complete the following requirements in lieu of 24 credits of Music 999, a dissertation, and a final oral examination over the dissertation:
   1. Complete 24 credits of Music 998.
   2. Submit an original music composition. The composition must be acceptable to the student’s guidance committee.

The student must have completed successfully all of the required course work (with the exception of Music 998), the comprehensive examinations, and the original composition before the final oral examination may be scheduled.

A copy of the composition referenced in item 4. above will be retained by the college as part of the permanent degree record.

Academic Standards

Doctoral study presumes continuing excellence in course work, reading, and writing.  A student may accumulate no more than 6 credits with a grade below 3.0 in courses that are to be counted toward the degree.

The student’s original composition and the student’s performance on the final oral examination based on the composition must be approved by the members of the student’s guidance committee with not more than one dissenting vote. Should the committee fail to accept either the student’s composition or the student’s performance on the final oral examination based on the composition, the student shall be allowed to rewrite the composition or to repeat the final oral examination based on the composition only once. The composition must be rewritten or the examination must be retaken within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree program in music conducting on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. A bachelor's degree in music from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music that are required for a bachelor's degree in music from Michigan State University or their equivalents.
2. Presented a live performance audition that was acceptable to the committee of faculty in conducting.

When applying for admission to the Master of Music degree program in music conducting, an applicant must specify one of the following three major areas:  wind conducting, choral conducting, or orchestral conducting.

With the approval of the faculty in an applicant's major area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high–quality recording of a recent performance, rather than on the basis of a live performance audition. An applicant must submit a video recording showing a front view of the applicant conducting for a minimum of 10 minutes. An applicant who submits a recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live conducting audition before a faculty committee in the applicant's major area. The audition must be presented before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program. The audition must be in the major area of conducting that the applicant specifies.

To schedule an audition, an applicant should contact the College of Music Admissions Office. An applicant who selects the orchestral conducting area must obtain a list of required repertoire from the Director of Orchestras in the College of Music.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Music Conducting

The student must meet the requirements for one of the following three major areas of conducting:  wind conducting, choral conducting, or orchestral conducting.

Academic Standards

A grade of 3.0 or higher is required for Music 897.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program in music conducting on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. A master's degree in music from a recognized educational institution or a total of 30 credits of approved course work.
2. Presented a live performance audition that was acceptable to the committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music.

When applying for admission to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program with a major in music conducting, an applicant must specify one of the following three major areas:  wind conducting, choral conducting, or orchestral conducting.

With the approval of the faculty in an applicant's major area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high–quality video recording of a recent performance, rather than on the basis of a live performance audition. An applicant must submit a video recording showing a front view of the applicant conducting a minimum of 10 minutes. An applicant who submits a recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition before a faculty committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music. The audition must be presented before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program.  As part of the audition, an applicant must present a 10–minute lecture on a topic related to conducting. The applicant may be asked to conduct a live performance group or to illustrate appropriate conducting techniques in relation to printed scores. The applicant may submit video and audio tape recordings of performances that he or she has conducted.

For additional information about the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program in conducting, contact the Director of Bands, the Director of Choral Activities, or the Director of Orchestras in the College of Music.

Guidance Committee

The Associate Dean of Graduate Studies or his or her designee must be a member of the student's guidance committee and must serve as its chairperson.

At least two faculty members in the student's conducting area, one faculty member in the area of music theory, and one faculty member in the area of musicology must also be members of the student's guidance committee. In instances where additional expertise would be beneficial it is recommended that the guidance committee include an additional faculty member from within or outside the College of Music.

Requirements for the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Music Conducting

Each student in the program has a major professor who provides instruction in the student's major area, oversees the musical content of the student's program guides the preparation of required conducting appearances, oversees the preparation of the scholarly paper or abstract, and oversees the final oral examination. Normally, the student studies with the major professor for four semesters.

Academic Standards

Doctoral study presumes continuing excellence in course work, reading, and writing. A student may accumulate no more than 6 credits with a grade below 3.0 in courses that are to be counted toward the degree.

The student's performance on the final oral examination and the scholarly paper on which the examination is based must be approved by the members of the student's guidance committee with not more than one dissenting vote. Should the committee fail to accept the final oral examination, or the paper, the student shall be allowed to repeat the final oral examination, or to rewrite the paper, only once. The examination must be retaken, or the paper  must be rewritten, within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree program in Music Education on regular status, an applicant must have a bachelor's degree in music education from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music education that are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in music education at Michigan State University or their equivalents.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Music Education

The program is available under both Plan A (with thesis) and Plan B (without thesis).  A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under Plan A or Plan B.  The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor.  The student must meet the requirements specified below:

Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B

Additional Requirements for Plan A

1. Complete the following course:
    MUS    899    Master's Thesis Research (4)

Additional Requirements for Plan B

1. Complete 4 additional credits in graduate courses in music education.
2. Pass a 3–hour written comprehensive examination.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in music education, an applicant must:

1. Submit to the College of Music his or her master's thesis, if a thesis was required for the master's degree.  An applicant who did not complete a thesis must submit a comparable sample of his or her academic or professional writing.
2. Have completed successfully at least three years of employment as a music teacher, as evidenced in letters of recommendation and other documents submitted in support of the application. 
3. Include in the letter required by the college a 500 to 700 word essay about the applicant's professional experience and future professional goals.

In addition, an international applicant is required to have fulfilled the university's English language proficiency requirement as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog in one of the following three ways:

1. Have a total score of 580 (paper version) or 237 (computer version) or above on the Test of English as a Foreign Language with no subscore below 55 (paper version) or 21 (computer version).
2. Have an average score of 85 or higher on the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery with no subscore below 82.
3. Have an average score of 85 or higher on the English Language Center Test with no subscore below 82.

To be admitted to the program on regular status, an applicant must have a master's degree in music education or a total of 30 credits of approved course work.

Students who are admitted to the doctoral program in music education should have completed each of the following graduate courses with a grade of at least 3.0 (B):  one music history course from the Baroque period or earlier (pre–1750), one music history course from the Classical period or later (post–1750), and one music theory course in advanced analysis.  A student who has not completed such courses will be required to complete those courses, in addition to completing the courses that are required for the doctoral degree.

Guidance Committee

The student's advisory committee, which must be formed in the first year of graduate study, should consist of an advisor, who must be a music education faculty member, two additional music education faculty members, and one member of the music faculty  in the student's cognate area.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Education

The student must:

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

When applying for admission to the Master of Music degree program in music performance, an applicant must specify one of the following three broad performance areas that he or she wishes to pursue:  instrumental music, instrumental specialist, or vocal music.

An applicant who selects the instrumental music area must also specify the major instrument or group of instruments (e.g., piano, harp, flute, or percussion instruments) from the categories listed below:

Brass and Percussion: trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion
Keyboard: piano
Stringed instruments: harp, violin, viola, cello, double bass
Woodwinds: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon

An applicant who selects the instrumental specialist area must also specify one of the following three major specialties:  brass instruments specialist, stringed instruments specialist, or woodwind instruments specialist.  An applicant who selects brass instruments specialist must specify the major brass instrument and two secondary brass instruments.  An applicant who selects stringed instruments specialist must specify the major stringed instrument and one secondary stringed instrument.  An applicant who selects woodwind instruments specialist must specify the major woodwind instrument and three secondary woodwind instruments. (Refer to the categories listed above.)

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree program in music performance, an applicant must present a live performance audition before a committee of faculty in the applicant's broad performance area. For an applicant who has a Bachelor of Music degree in music performance from Michigan State University, the live performance audition may be waived at the discretion of the faculty in the applicant's major area. With the approval of the faculty in an applicant's major area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high–quality recording of a recent performance, rather than on the basis of a live performance audition.  An applicant who selects the instrumental music, instrumental specialist, or vocal music area must submit either an audio or a video recording. An applicant who submits a recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition before a faculty committee in the applicant's broad performance area.  The audition must be presented before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program and must meet the requirements that are specified below.

The requirements for the audition are specified below:

1. instrumental music:  The audition must be on the major instrument or group of instruments that the applicant specifies.
2. instrumental specialist: 
   1. brass instruments specialist:  The audition must be on the major brass instrument and on the two secondary brass instruments that the applicant specifies.  If trombone is not the major instrument, it must be one of the secondary instruments.
   2. stringed instruments specialist:  The audition must be on the major stringed instrument and on the secondary stringed instrument that the applicant specifies.  If the major instrument is violin or viola, the secondary instrument must be cello or double bass.  If the major instrument is cello or double bass, the secondary instrument must be violin or viola.
   3. woodwind instruments specialist:  The audition must be on the major woodwind instrument and on one of the three secondary woodwind instruments that the applicant specifies.
3. vocal music:  The audition must be in voice.

To schedule an audition, an applicant should contact the College of Music Admissions Office.

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree program in music performance on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. A bachelor's degree in music performance from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music performance that are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in music performance from Michigan State University or their equivalents.
2. Presented a live performance audition that was acceptable to the committee of faculty in the broad performance area.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Music Performance

The student must meet the requirements for one of the following three broad areas of music performance:  instrumental music, instrumental specialist, or vocal music.

Instrumental Music

The student must meet the requirements for one of the following five major areas of instrumental music:  piano, brass instruments, stringed instruments, woodwind instruments, or percussion instruments:

Instrumental Specialist

The student must meet the requirements for one of the following three major specialties:  brass instruments specialist, stringed instruments specialist, or woodwind instruments specialist:

Vocal Music

The program is available only under Plan B (without thesis).  A total of 30 credits is required for the degree.  The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor.  The student must meet the requirements specified below:

Academic Standards

A grade of 3.0 or higher is required for Music 896.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program in music performance on regular status, an applicant must have:

1. a master's degree in music from a recognized educational institution or a total of 30 credits of approved graduate course work.
2. presented a live performance audition acceptable to the committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music.

When applying for admission to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program with a major in music performance, an applicant must specify one of the following two broad performance areas that he or she wishes to pursue:  instrumental music or vocal music.

An applicant who selects the instrumental music area must also specify the major instrument or group of instruments (e.g., piano, harp, flute, or percussion instruments) from the categories listed below:

Brass and Percussion: trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion
Keyboard: piano
Stringed Instruments: harp, violin, viola, cello, double bass
Woodwinds: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon 

To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program in music performance, an applicant must present a live performance audition before a faculty committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music.

Applicants selecting the instrumental music area must present a live 40-minute audition, including the performance of three major works and approximately 10 minutes of discussion on one or more of the works, that is acceptable to the committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music. Applicants selecting the vocal music area must present a live 40-minute audition, performing 30 minutes of music and 10 minutes of discussion on one or more of the works, that is acceptable to the committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music. Required languages: English, French, German, and Italian. Required repertoire: art songs, one opera aria, one baroque or classical aria, one 20th-21st century work. In the case of both the instrumental and vocal music areas, applicants must also be prepared to respond to questions from the audition panel on the entire program.

With the approval of the faculty in an applicant's major area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of a high–quality recording of a recent performance, rather than on the basis of a live performance audition.  An applicant who selects the instrumental music or vocal music  area  must submit either an audio or a video recording. An applicant who submits a recording may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition before a faculty committee appointed by the Dean of the College of Music.  The audition must be presented before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program.

Guidance Committee

The Associate Dean of Graduate Studies or his or her designee must be a member of the student's guidance committee and must serve as its chairperson. The student’s major professor, a second faculty member from the student’s area, one faculty member from the area of musicology, and one faculty member from the area of music theory must be members of the student’s guidance committee. In instances where additional expertise would be beneficial it is recommended that the guidance committee include a faculty member from within or outside the College of Music.

Requirements for the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Music Performance

The student must meet the requirements specified below:

Each student in the program has a major professor who provides instruction in the student's major instrument or in voice, oversees the musical content of the student's program, guides the preparation of required recitals, oversees the preparation of the scholarly paper, lecture-recital(s) and the final oral examination.  Normally, the student studies with the major professor for six semesters. 

The student must:

1. Select, from the categories below, a major instrument or group of instruments (e.g. piano, harp, flute, or percussion instruments) or voice:
   Piano
   Stringed instruments: harp, violin, viola, cello, double bass
   Wind instruments: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba
   Percussion instruments
   Voice
2. Complete the courses that are specified by the student's guidance committee including:
1. 3 credits of Music 830 Research Methods and Materials in Music
2. 6 credits of 800- or 900-level courses in music history
3. additional courses in music theory as specified by the student's guidance committee after the student has taken the Graduate Orientation Examination in Music Theory
4. 6 credits of elective courses, exclusive of additional credits of Music 996
3. Pass the written comprehensive examination in music history and music theory.
4. Complete the following requirements in lieu of 24 credits of Music 999, a doctoral dissertation,  and a final oral examination in defense of the dissertation:
1. Complete 24 credits of Music 996.
2. Perform four public recitals that have been approved by a committee of faculty from the student's area.  Three of the recitals must be solo recitals, two of which must be presented within two consecutive semesters, excluding summers.  The fourth recital must be a chamber music recital.  A recording of each of the four recitals is required and must be submitted to the Office of the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies.
3. Complete one of the following three options:

(1)    Present a lecture–recital twice, first to the student's guidance committee as part of an oral examination and then to the 
         public and submit a scholarly paper upon which the lecture-recital is based.  In no case may the lecture–recital be 
         presented publicly until it has been approved by the committee. The oral examination will be a defense of the lecture-
         recital and the paper.  A recording of the lecture–recital is required and must be submitted to the Office of the Associate 
         Dean for Graduate Studies.
(2)    Present two lecture-recitals. Each lecture-recital must be presented twice, first to the student’s guidance committee as 
         part of an oral examination and then to the public. In no case may the lecture-recital be presented publicly until it has 
         been approved by the committee. Each oral examination will be a defense of one of the lecture-recitals. A recording of 
         each lecture-recital is required and must be submitted to the Office of the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies.
(3)    With the unanimous consent of the student's guidance committee, submit a scholarly paper of major scope, comparable 
         to a traditional dissertation, and take a final oral examination based on the paper.

A proposal for each lecture-recital and the scholarly paper, if applicable, must be approved in writing by all members of the guidance committee no less than three months before the oral examination on that lecture-recital may occur. A recording of the public lecture-recital(s) and the scholarly paper  will be retained by the College as part of the permanent degree record.

In the case of (1) and (3) above, the student must have completed successfully all of the required course work (with the exception of Music 996 Doctoral Recital Performance), the comprehensive examination, the required public recitals, and the scholarly paper before the final oral examination may occur. In the case of (2) above, the student must have completed successfully all of the required course work (with the exception of Music 996), the comprehensive examination, and the required public recitals before either of the oral examinations may occur.

Academic Standards

Doctoral study presumes continuing excellence in course work, reading, and writing.  A student may accumulate no more than 6 credits with a grade below 3.0 in courses that are to be counted toward the degree.

With regard to 4. (c) (1) above, the student’s performance on the lecture-recital and the related scholarly paper and the final oral examination based on the lecture-recital and the paper must be approved by the members of the student’s guidance committee with not more than one dissenting vote. Should the committee fail to accept the student’s performance on the lecture-recital and the related paper or the final oral examination, the student shall be allowed to repeat the performance of the lecture-recital or to revise the related paper or to repeat the final oral examination. The lecture-recital must be repeated or the paper revised or the oral examination repeated within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

With regard to 4. (c) (2) above, the student’s performance on each of the two lecture-recitals and the final oral examination based on each lecture-recital must be approved by the members of the student’s guidance committee with not more than one dissenting vote. Should the committee fail to accept the student’s performance on either lecture-recital or the final oral examination, the student shall be allowed to repeat the performance of the lecture-recital or to repeat the final oral examination. The lecture-recital must be repeated or the oral examination repeated within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

With regard to 4. (c) (3) above, the student’s performance on the scholarly paper and the final oral examination based on the paper must be approved by the members of the student’s guidance committee with not more than one dissenting vote. Should the committee fail to accept the student’s performance on the paper or the final oral examination, the student shall be allowed to revise the related paper or to repeat the final oral examination. The paper must be revised or the oral examination repeated within one year, during a fall or spring semester.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree program in music theory, an applicant must submit to the College of Music:

1. A one–page, type–written statement, written in English, that addresses the applicant's interest in the field of music theory and in Michigan State University's music theory program.
2. At least one type–written, scholarly paper of 10–20 pages, written in English, that focuses on an analysis of a specific composition or that discusses one aspect (e.g., form, harmony, or rhythm) of a particular composition or body of work.
3. At least one original music composition or musical arrangement, or two examples of compositional studies (e.g., counterpoint examples prepared for a course).  A video or audio recording of a performance of the composition or arrangement may be submitted.

To be admitted to the program on regular status, an applicant must have a bachelor's degree in music theory from a recognized educational institution, or have completed the courses in music theory that are required for the Bachelor of Music degree in music theory at Michigan State University or their equivalents.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Music Theory

The program is available under both Plan A (with thesis) and Plan B (without thesis). A total of 33 or 34 credits are required for the degree. Students must meet the requirements for one of the following concentrations.

Research

This concentration is available only under Plan A (with thesis). A total of 34 credits is required for the degree. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor, who must be a member of the Music Theory faculty. The student must meet the requirements specified below:

Pedagogy

This concentration is available only under Plan B (without thesis). A total of 33 credits is required for the degree. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor, who must be a member of the Music Theory faculty. The student must meet the requirements specified below:

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be admitted to the Master of Arts degree program in musicology on regular status, an applicant must have a bachelor's degree in musicology, or have completed the courses in musicology that are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in music at Michigan State University or their equivalents.

Requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in Musicology

The program is available under both Plan A (with thesis) and Plan B (without thesis).  A total of 31 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A or Plan B.  The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor.  The student must meet the requirements specified below:

Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B

Additional Requirements for Plan A

1. Complete the following course:
   MUS    899    Master's Thesis Research (4)

Additional Requirements for Plan B

1. Complete the following course:
   MUS    898    Master's Research (4)
   Possible projects include historical performance, instrument construction, or transcribing or editing historical music.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Music students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

To be considered for admission to the Master of Music degree program in piano pedagogy, an applicant must present a live performance audition before and be interviewed by a committee of faculty of the piano area. For an applicant who has a Bachelor of Music degree in music performance from Michigan State University, the live performance audition and the interview may be waived at the discretion of the faculty in the piano area. With the approval of the faculty in the piano area, an applicant may be considered for admission to the program on the basis of (a) a high-quality audio or video recording of a recent performance, (b) a video recording of him or her teaching a piano lesson to a young child, and (c) a written statement of his or her teaching philosophy.  An applicant who submits recordings and a written statement may be admitted only on provisional status pending the presentation of a live performance audition before and an interview with the faculty in the piano area.  The live performance and the interview must be completed before the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program and must meet the requirements of the piano area.

To be admitted to the Master of Music degree program in Piano Pedagogy on regular status, an applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in piano pedagogy, a bachelor’s degree in piano performance or a bachelor’s degree in music education with a major in piano from a recognized educational institution.

In addition, an international applicant is required to have fulfilled the University’s English language proficiency requirement for regular admission as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.  Provisional admission as a result of English language scores is not possible for this degree program.

Requirements for the Master of Music Degree in Piano Pedagogy

The program is available under Plan B (without thesis).  A total of 31 credits is required for the degree under Plan B.  The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor.  The student must meet the requirements specified below.