Explore Our Programs
The School of Music offers undergraduate degrees in six concentrations and graduate degrees in thirteen concentrations, including Artist Certificates. We also offer two Doctoral Degree programs and a non-degree teaching licensure degree. Whether you wish to be a professional musician, public school music teacher, composer, sound recorder, or music management professional, the School of Music can provide world-class training for you.
Master of Music, Concentration in Composition, M. Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Composition, Teaching
The Georgia State University Composition Concentration offers aspiring composers a comprehensive and immersive experience. The curriculum is designed to develop students’ artistic expression and compositional skills across various musical genres and styles. Through individualized instruction, students work closely with experienced faculty, honing their composition techniques and exploring their unique creative voices.
The program emphasizes traditional and contemporary composition approaches, fostering a well-rounded understanding of music theory, orchestration and electronic music. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including cutting-edge recording studios and composition software, allowing them to bring their musical ideas to life with professional-level production quality.
The mission of the Georgia State School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university.
The graduate programs in the School of Music offer unparalleled opportunities in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. The school enrolls about 90 students in Master of Music degree programs, Artist Certificate programs, and Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs in music education.
Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Master of Music (M.Mu.), Concentration in Conducting (Low-Residency)
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
The Master of Music concentration in Conducting (Low-Residency) at Georgia State offers conductors who are already working in the field the opportunity to advance their education and training during the summer. Students must hold a Bachelors in Music degree and have regular access to leading a large ensemble. This degree is offered in a fully online format during the academic year (fall and spring) with an in-person format for the Summer I Session (June).
For guidance and feedback, Students take the respective conducting course (Choral Conducting or Instrumental Conducting) online in either the fall or spring semester of the program. During the summer, students participate in a six-credit hour conducting seminar that overlaps with the Summer Music Institute and Atlanta Summer Conducting Institute (as auditors only). One additional elective course is also available each summer to round out the needed degree credits.
Master of Music, Concentration in Guitar Performance, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations:
Interest Area: Music Performance, Teaching
The Georgia State Master of Music with a concentration in guitar performance provides advanced preparation for a career as a concert performer, as both soloist and chamber musician and as a teacher of guitar. Georgia State’s location in the heart of Atlanta, a cultural gem of the South, allows Master of Music guitar students to take advantage of numerous performing and teaching opportunities on and off campus. Completion of the degree normally necessitates four semesters of full-time study and requires a one-hour solo recital as well as a one-hour chamber recital.
The mission of the Georgia State School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university.
The graduate programs in the School of Music offer unparalleled opportunities in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. The school enrolls about 90 students in Master of Music degree programs, Artist Certificate programs, and Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs in music education.
Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Master of Music, Concentration in Jazz Studies, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Jazz Performance, Arranger, Composer, Music Performance, Teaching
College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Jazz Performance, Arranger, Composer, Music Performance, Teaching
The Georgia State University Jazz Studies concentration offers a comprehensive approach to developing competence in jazz performance, improvisation and knowledge of jazz history. It also equips students with professional skills in establishing and maintaining high school or college-level jazz programs while nurturing their creative talents in jazz arranging and composing.
The program provides valuable opportunities for students to engage in quality jazz organizations, including large jazz bands and jazz combos. Furthermore, students will enhance their playing by participating in academic jazz courses such as jazz improvisation, jazz arranging and jazz pedagogy, among others. This integrated approach ensures a well-rounded jazz education and fosters both practical and academic growth in the field.
We offer jazz studies degrees in the following areas:
- Instrumental
- Voice
- Piano
Master of Music, Concentration in Orchestral Conducting, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
This Georgia State Orchestral Conducting concentration provides a course of study intended to: a) develop and enhance the conducting skills of students, b) extend students’ musical and administrative knowledge in conducting orchestras and c) prepare students for doctoral study in conducting. Successful applicants are active orchestral conductors who demonstrate potential as professional conductors. Conducting audition/videotape required.
The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 35 full-time and 30 part-time faculty in concentrations such as music education, performance, pedagogy, conducting, composition, jazz studies, and music industry with two distinct concentrations in music management and music production & audio recording. Coupled with our mission, we set a vision to make our world better by making music together.
Master of Music, Concentration in Orchestral Instrument Performance, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Music Performance
The Georgia State University Master of Music in Orchestral Instrument Performance program prepares students for rewarding careers as performing musicians or studio instructors. This specialized pathway emphasizes the development of a strong foundation in music reading and performance, nurturing students’ skills and musicianship to excel in their chosen orchestral instrument. Through active participation in bands, choirs, or orchestras, students gain valuable ensemble experience and develop the ability to perform collaboratively with others. They also have opportunities to showcase their talent as soloists and in small group settings. With dedicated private study and guidance from experienced faculty, students refine their technical proficiency, musical interpretation and expressive artistry.
Master of Music, Concentration in Piano Pedagogy, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Piano Pedagogy, Teaching
The Georgia State University Piano Pedagogy concentration is a comprehensive and innovative pathway for cultivating the next generation of piano teachers and educators. This concentration equips students with the competence for effective studio or class teaching of piano across all age levels. The program seamlessly integrates artistic performance, techniques of verbal and musical communication, knowledge of appropriate piano literature and adept use of methods and instructional materials to foster successful teaching. Through hands-on experiences, theoretical exploration and practical teaching opportunities, students gain a profound understanding of nurturing musical talent while instilling a lifelong passion for the piano.
Master of Music, Concentration in Piano Performance, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Music Performance
A concentration in piano performance at Georgia State University caters to individuals aspiring to become professional performers or collaborative pianists. It serves as a pathway for students pursuing graduate studies and also prepares them for careers in teaching, both in academia and private studios. Students benefit from personalized instruction by our exceptional music faculty, enabling them to strive for excellence in performance and develop a strong sense of professionalism.
Master of Music, Concentration in Voice Performance, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Music Performance
The Georgia State University voice performance concentration prepares students for dynamic careers as performing musicians and studio teachers, offering comprehensive training at advanced levels for excellence in opera, oratorio, song recital and advanced vocal instruction. Through rigorous coursework and practical experience, students cultivate a deep understanding of vocal technique, interpretation, stage presence and repertoire, receiving personalized instruction from accomplished faculty for invaluable mentorship and guidance. Focused on honing performance skills, students actively participate in various vocal performances, showcasing their talents and building a versatile repertoire. The emphasis in Voice equips students with the necessary expertise and artistic finesse to pursue fulfilling careers as captivating performers and respected educators in the realm of vocal music.
Master of Music, Concentration in Wind Band Conducting, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band)
The Master of Music program at Georgia State University, with a concentration in Wind Band Conducting, is meticulously crafted to cultivate and elevate students’ conducting skills while providing insights into the administrative aspects of directing collegiate wind band programs. Through a comprehensive study of repertoire, students not only develop their musicianship and artistry but also acquire the skills to effectively manage and organize successful performances. This program serves as a robust foundation for those aspiring to pursue doctoral studies in conducting. Prospective students must undergo a conducting audition or submit a videotape as part of the application process.
For educators looking to continue teaching while working toward an advanced degree, we also offer a Master of Music, Concentration in Conducting, M.Mu. (Low Residency) program in a hybrid modality; fully online during the academic year (fall and spring) with in-person sessions during the Summer I Session (June).Music Industry/Management, B.S.
Bachelor's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Music Management and Technology
Music Management (Bachelor of Science) prepares students for a variety of management-related careers in the music industry, including profit and non-profit sectors. The curriculum is founded on basic knowledge of music, experiences in performing and courses in business and music management. Graduates may work in a range of capacities at record labels and distributors or in artist and concert management, retail sales or music publishing. Students complete at least one internship with a commercial firm or non-profit agency as part of their programs.
The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Music, Dual B.Mu./M.Mu. Program
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations:
Interest Area: Composition, Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band), Jazz Performance, Arranger, Composer, Music Performance
Music, Dual B.Mu./M.Mu. Program
Eligible for the Dual Undergraduate/Graduate Program
College of the Arts
Locations:
Interest Area: Composition, Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind Band), Jazz Performance, Arranger, Composer, Music Performance
The School of Music offers a dual Bachelor of Music and Master of Music program for all Performance concentrations, Jazz Studies, Composition and Piano Pedagogy. The dual-degree opportunity enables qualified students to enroll in graduate courses late in their undergraduate program and apply the coursework toward both the bachelor’s and master’s programs. The program is designed to take five years to complete.
Students must be formally accepted into the dual-degree program by the school and the College of the Arts to be able to take graduate courses as an undergraduate. Acceptance into the dual program does not constitute admission to the master’s program. Students must fulfill regular graduate admissions requirements and apply for the master’s program following college processes.
Through the dual-degree programs, highly talented and qualified students will have the opportunity to complete both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in as little as five years. If determined to be qualified by typical admission measures, students can begin taking coursework toward the designated master’s degree program while still completing their final year of bachelor’s work. Admission to the graduate program is provisional, contingent upon successful completion of the bachelor’s degree, maintenance of the required 3.5 GPA and performance in the graduate-level courses taken during the bachelor’s degree.
Non-degree Licensure Program in Music Education
Teaching Program
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations:
Interest Area: Music Education
The total course work typically requires two years of enrollment, including student teaching. For students holding a Bachelor of Music or Master’s degree, and who do not need the instrumental techniques courses, the program typically requires four semesters, about 33 credit hours. For those students holding a Bachelor of Arts degree, the program typically requires six semesters totaling 37+ credit hours. Following assessment of background and proficiencies, the music education faculty will plan a program of study for each admitted student. Admission to the graduate program does not assure admission to the licensure program.
The mission of the Georgia State School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university.
The graduate programs in the School of Music offer unparalleled opportunities in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. The school enrolls about 90 students in Master of Music degree programs, Artist Certificate programs, and Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs in music education.
Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.
Master of Music, Concentration in Music Education, M.Mu.
Master's
College/School: College of the Arts
Locations: Online
Interest Area: Music Education
The online Master of Music in Music Education at Georgia State’s College of the Arts is designed for music teachers aiming to advance their knowledge and skills in music education. This fully online program blends advanced studies in music with pedagogical techniques tailored for both current and aspiring music educators. This program focuses on enhancing teaching effectiveness in school music programs. It covers:
- Pedagogical strategies in music education.
- Curriculum development for diverse educational settings.
- Incorporation of technology in music education.
- Research in music education to inform teaching practices.
- Enhance your instructional skills and strategies to foster musical understanding and appreciation in students.
- Conduct and apply research to improve music education practices.
- Utilize technology effectively in music education settings.
- Lead and inspire in a variety of educational contexts, ensuring the highest standards of musical education.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural and philosophical contexts of music education.
Teaching and Learning, Ph.D.
Doctorate
College/School: College of Education & Human Development
Locations: Atlanta Campus
Interest Area: Music Education
The Ph.D. major in Teaching and Learning is designed to prepare you as a professional educator for leadership positions by developing a substantial knowledge base in one of the following areas of concentration:
- Language and Literacy Education
- Mathematics Education (only admits for summer & fall with an application deadline of March 1)
- Music Education
- Science Education
- Social Studies Education
- Teaching and Teacher Education
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