MM in Music - Conducting

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.
      
3. Audition Required

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates of the MM in Music - Conducting program from the University of Arizona have various career opportunities in the field of conducting and music. 

1. Orchestra Conductor: Graduates can pursue careers as orchestra conductors, leading professional orchestras or community ensembles. They may work with symphony orchestras, chamber orchestras, or youth orchestras. Orchestra conductors are responsible for interpreting musical scores, leading rehearsals, and conducting performances. They collaborate with musicians, guest artists, and administrators to create compelling musical experiences.

2. Choral Conductor: Graduates with a focus on choral conducting can pursue careers as choral directors, leading professional choirs, or university/community choirs. They guide singers in vocal technique, interpretation, and ensemble performance. Choral conductors lead rehearsals, plan performances, and select repertoire that suits the vocal abilities and artistic vision of the ensemble.

3. Band Conductor: Graduates with expertise in wind band conducting can pursue careers as band directors, working with professional wind bands, military bands, or college/university bands. Band conductors lead rehearsals, develop engaging concert programs, and collaborate with composers and soloists. They foster musicianship, technique, and ensemble cohesion within the band.

4. Music Educator: Graduates can pursue careers as music educators, teaching conducting and ensemble direction at the university or secondary school level. They may work as conducting instructors, ensemble directors, or music department faculty members. Music educators inspire and mentor the next generation of conductors, fostering musicianship, leadership skills, and a love for music.

5. Guest Conductor: Graduates can establish themselves as guest conductors, working with various orchestras, choirs, or bands on a freelance basis. Guest conducting opportunities allow conductors to work with different ensembles and collaborate with musicians from diverse backgrounds. They bring their unique artistic perspective to different communities and contribute to the cultural enrichment of those regions.

6. Music Administrator: Graduates with a strong understanding of conducting and ensemble leadership can pursue careers in music administration. They may work in artistic management, concert programming, or arts administration roles. Music administrators oversee the artistic direction of performing arts organizations, manage concert seasons, and collaborate with conductors and artists to create impactful musical experiences.

The MM in Music - Conducting program at the University of Arizona provides students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to excel as conductors. Graduates have opportunities to work in various professional contexts, including conducting orchestras, choirs, bands, or pursuing careers in music education and administration. They contribute to the vibrant world of music by leading performances, shaping artistic interpretations, and inspiring musicians and audiences alike.