Major Field/Specialization study develops advanced proficiency in the concentrated field with an emphasis in the exploration of an individual creative voice. Courses in music technology exclusive to the major instrument as well as recording studio techniques cover professional creative practices. (Total: Master of Music, 31 credits, Master of Arts, 36 credits)

Supportive Study reinforces the concentrated field and provides a breadth of learning in areas that uphold the mission to develop artistic entrepreneurs. Depending on the major, supportive study courses include composition and arranging, expertise in music technology and recording practices, pedagogy training and practice, professional development in music business and leadership skills and in scholarship through inquiry, investigation, research development and cognitive writing. (Total 20 credits)

Elective Tracks (studies in other fields) allow students who are interested in expanding their knowledge in a field outside their specialization to choose deeper study in composition, production or music business. Students who wish to focus solely on their major field can choose the Performance Track for their specialization. (Total 9 credits)

Courses are conducted in four forms of instruction:

• Lecture classes award one credit per contact hour of class time (50 minutes of lecture per hour) and require three hours of work outside of class for each contact hour.
• Lab classes, including instructor supervised ensemble classes and computer work labs, award 0.5 credits for each contact hour of lab time.
• Applied Private Lessons award two credits per contact hour of class time, one credit for class time and one credit for three hours minimum of work outside of class.
• Capstone Thesis Project awards credit based on advisor supervised student work time. Three hours work per week outside of class awards one credit. The thesis advisor meets with the student regularly throughout the term to guide and support progress in the capstone thesis project.

Master of Music and Master of Arts degrees are six quarter programs that students complete in 18 months. Students may start a program in the Fall or Spring quarters (course pacing for each program is outlined in detail in the sections below).

• Course pacing for Fall starts: Q1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Course pacing for Spring starts: Q3, 4, 1, 2, 5, 6

NOTE: Specific placement of courses may vary depending on the chosen Elective Track (the Major Field, or an outside field in Composing for Visual Media, Songwriting, Music Production, Music Business or Vocal Arranging). Graduate students work with the Academic Advising Office in developing a precise academic plan toward graduation.