The Artist Diploma may be the most appropriate option for the student seeking total concentration in performance at the post-master's level. This graduate-level, non-degree performance program is intended for only the most talented and outstanding performers.

Th Artist Diploma program is offered to students in the performing areas of:

  • Orchestral Conducting;
  • Strings (violin, viola, violoncello, double bass)
  • Woodwinds (flute/piccolo, oboe/English horn, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone)
  • Brass (French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba)
  • Harp and Percussion;
  • Piano;
  • and Vocal Performance.
Interested students should contact the Office of Graduate Admissions for the particulars in relation to the application process.

Entrance Requirements

Applicants to this program must have a Bachelor of Music degree with a major in performance or a Performers Certificate that represents a minimum of a three-year performance-intensive program. For the Graduate Artist Diploma in orchestral conducting, a master's degree or its equivalent is preferred. Required credentials for admission to the music departments include an application, application fee, official transcripts of all postsecondary studies, two letters of recommendation, a repertoire list and evidence of a performing career in progress (such as programs and/or critical reviews).

Students whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL results of 80 or higher (iBT test), (for paper-based test: 550 or higher; for computer-based test: 213 or higher), to be considered for admission. For the iBT test, at least 20 out of 30 in each of the subcategories is required.

For Vocal Performance Applicants Only: Final admission to the program is granted following successful completion of a 60-minute artist diploma admission audition, which must be presented before coursework begins, should include selections demonstrating the student's ability to perform in various styles, and demonstrate proficiency in English, French, German, and Italian.

The applicant must audition in person if residing in the United States. Applicants for the Graduate Artist Diploma in orchestral conducting are asked to submit a videotape of a public performance, reading session or rehearsal, minimum length of 30 minutes, demonstrating diverse styles of orchestral repertoire; in addition, they will take a written and aural examination.

Program of Study

To receive the Graduate Artist Diploma, the student must successfully complete a curriculum of 35 or 36 semester hours with an average of B or better. Enrollment for a minimum of four semesters is required, with a maximum period of three years allowed for completion of the program. Transfer credits may not be accepted to satisfy course requirements. Credits for coursework apply toward program requirements after the artist diploma audition is passed. Classes chosen for the music electives requirement should be lecture or lecture/activity courses to be determined with the program adviser. Examples include music theory, music history or similar courses appropriate to the major. All required recitals are to be performed in public before a committee of the music departments faculty and will be graded on a pass/fail basis.

View the Catalog Announcements for requirements specific to the various tracks.