
The graduate music program at San Diego State University offers students an array of interesting and challenging advanced degree curricula. All are designed to increase the candidate’s musicianship, critical skills, and professional insights. The Master of Arts and Master of Music programs specifically prepare graduates to pursue professional careers as performers, college level faculty, researchers, applied studio teachers, and closely related fields. The graduate degrees at SDSU also serve as an excellent foundation for doctoral level study.
Master of Arts degrees in music are available in the following areas. Click on the appropriate link for additional information.
Ethnomusicology
Musicology
Music Theory (currently not accepting applications)
Piano Pedagogy
Master of Music degrees are available in the following disciplines:
Performance
Composition
Conducting
Jazz Studies
A graduate Artist Diploma program is available for highly skilled, professional level performers who seek an additional academic credential. No GRE required. TOEFL is required for international students.
Specific information regarding the application and audition process can be found here. Prospective students must apply for admission before an audition can be scheduled. The School of Music and Dance observes a January 1 university application deadline and all supporting materials must be received by February 1. Graduate applicants are strongly encouraged to apply earlier so that faculty and staff can assist with any questions that may arise during the process prior to these deadlines.

February 10 & 11 at 7pm, February 12 at 2 pm
SDSU OPERA THEATRE*
Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”
February 20 at 2 pm
Q & A with San Diego Opera Artist
Talise Trevigne (Pip in Moby Dick)
Free
February 25 at 7:30pm
Dance: Works in Progress
February 26 at 4pm
SDSU Symphony Orchestra
with guest conductor
Dana Zimbric
February 28 at 8pm
CONTEMPORARY CHAMBER MUSIC*
Swarmius and Friends perform
music of Michael Daughterty and
Joe Waters, co-presented by NWEAMO
February 29 at 8pm
NWEAMO: Electro-Acoustic Ensemble
*75th Anniversary Commemorative Performance
View all upcoming school events