Master of Music
Initial screening requires a submission of candidate conducting video –preferably rehearsal and performance footage. Video needs to be submitted via the School of Music Admissions Portal.
If initial screening is accepted candidates will be invited to campus to guest conduct one of the large ensembles for a final audition.
Doctor of Musical Arts
To be admitted for study leading to the Doctor of Musical Arts, applicants must hold a master’s degree in music or music education (or the equivalent) of at least 30 credit hours from an accredited college, university, or comparable institution, and present a GPA of at least 3.0 for all previous graduate-level work (A = 4.0). Appropriate preparation for doctoral study will vary according to the major/degree plan chosen; therefore, prospective applicants should consult with faculty in their intended major area for specific requirements and expectations.
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- A completed application for admission to DMA graduate study.
- Two official transcripts of all college work. Translations must be provided for all international transcripts.
- Non-refundable $60 application fee.
- Three current letters of reference from persons qualified to comment on the applicant’s academic musical achievement, teaching and/or professional experience, and potential for success in the degree program.
- A double-spaced typed paper of five pages or more that illustrates the applicant’s best writing and research skills. A term paper completed as part of master’s level work is sufficient, or the student may submit a research paper, a critical analysis or an article suitable for publication.
- A resume or curriculum vitae. This should include a list of concert performances, compositions, publications, and other musical accomplishments.
- Test scores must be sent to TCU from the testing agency: GRE (all students) and TOEFL (international students).
Based on the results of pre-screening, an invitation may be extended to perform an on-campus audition/recital/interview in the principal applied music area before a faculty committee. Applicants should not select an audition day until they have received an official invitation to do so. If invited, the audition/recital/interview should be arranged in coordination with the faculty in the major area and the College of Fine Arts Graduate Office. The CFA Graduate Office will send faculty contact information after application materials are received.
The candidate must present a dossier at the audition; it should include the audition program, a vita and a repertoire list. During the audition, which will be heard by at least three members of the graduate faculty, the candidate normally performs 30-45 minutes from a prepared one-hour program. After the performance, the applicant will interview with the faculty present. The faculty will report their evaluation of the audition and interview to the College of Fine Arts Graduate Office, using the Report of DMA Audition Form. This report will be added to the student’s file, which will be reviewed by area faculty, the Graduate Standards Committee, the School of Music director and the associate dean for graduate Studies.