M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
Masters of Music
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.M. program at Missouri State University is intended for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in music. The program typically requires 32-34 credit hours, depending on the chosen concentration, and is designed for completion within approximately two years for full-time students. It emphasizes the development of high-level musical skills, interpretive proficiency, and performance excellence. Concentrations available include Choral Conducting, Composition, Instrumental Conducting, Collaborative Piano, Performance, Music Theory, Musicology, and Music Education (which is also available fully online). Each concentration has specific admission requirements, which may include an audition for performance-based tracks or a portfolio for composition.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.M. program is structured to provide both a broad understanding of music and specialized training within a chosen concentration. Core requirements often include advanced coursework in music theory and music history/musicology, providing a robust intellectual foundation. Students also engage in applied music study, with individual instruction available for various instruments and voice, and participate in comprehensive examinations. The specific coursework varies significantly by concentration. For example, a Performance concentration emphasizes advanced applied study, ensemble participation, and recital preparation, while a Composition concentration focuses on developing original musical works and advanced analysis. Music Education students delve into pedagogy, research methods in music education, and psychology of music instruction, with options for online delivery.
Research Focus: The Master of Music program at Missouri State University integrates research and scholarly inquiry across its various concentrations. While performance and composition tracks primarily focus on creative output and artistic interpretation, they also involve in-depth research into repertoire, performance practices, and historical context. Music Education and Musicology concentrations typically have a stronger explicit research component, including coursework in research methods and the potential for a thesis or extensive research project. Faculty members in the Department of Music engage in diverse research and creative activities, ranging from historical musicology and music theory to contemporary composition, conducting practices, and innovative music pedagogy. This broad spectrum of faculty expertise provides opportunities for students to pursue significant scholarly or creative research under mentorship.
Industry Engagement: The M.M. program at Missouri State University prepares graduates for direct engagement with the music industry and related fields. Through performance opportunities in various ensembles (band, choral, jazz, opera, orchestra), students gain valuable stage experience and build professional networks. Students in conducting and composition concentrations have opportunities to lead and showcase their work. Music Education graduates are specifically prepared for careers in teaching, often through practical coursework and connections to local school systems. The program's emphasis on high-level musicianship, critical thinking, and effective communication equips graduates for diverse roles, including performing artist, music educator, composer, church musician, or in arts administration. Student organizations within the music department also provide professional development, networking, and community involvement opportunities.
Global Perspective: The Master of Music program at Missouri State University inherently fosters a global perspective by engaging with a wide range of musical traditions and repertoire from around the world. Students delve into music history and theory that spans diverse cultures and time periods, promoting an understanding of global musical influences and contexts. Ensembles often perform works from various international composers, and individual applied study can encompass repertoire from different national schools. While not a dedicated world music program, the curriculum encourages a broad appreciation for the universal language of music and its diverse expressions. The presence of international students within the university's vibrant music community further enriches the learning environment by bringing varied cultural perspectives to musical interpretation and discussion. Travel opportunities for ensembles, such as the Women's Chorus international tour, also directly contribute to a global outlook.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of Music (M.M.) from Missouri State University provides graduates with a highly specialized and advanced skill set, preparing them for a diverse array of careers within the dynamic and evolving music industry. Beyond traditional performance and teaching roles, the program's focus on high-level musicianship, critical thinking, and specific concentrations (like composition or conducting) equips individuals for leadership and innovative contributions across various sectors of the arts and entertainment.
University Professor/College Instructor: Many M.M. graduates pursue careers in higher education, teaching music theory, history, performance (applied lessons), or music education at universities, colleges, or community colleges. A Ph.D. is often required for tenure-track positions, but an M.M. can qualify for adjunct or lecturer roles.
Professional Performer (Orchestral, Opera, Chamber, Solo): Graduates with performance concentrations often pursue careers as professional musicians, performing with symphony orchestras, opera companies, chamber ensembles, touring bands, or as solo artists. This path demands exceptional talent, dedication, and continuous practice and networking.
Music Educator (K-12 or Private Studio): For those passionate about teaching, an M.M. in Music Education (or other concentrations with a teaching focus) prepares individuals to become music teachers, band directors, choir directors, or vocal instructors in public or private schools. They can also establish successful private studios, offering individualized instruction.
Conductor/Music Director: Graduates with conducting concentrations lead various musical ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, bands, and theatrical productions. They are responsible for artistic interpretation, rehearsal preparation, and performance direction, often working for educational institutions, community groups, or professional organizations.
Composer/Arranger: Individuals with a composition concentration create original music for a wide range of media, including film, television, video games, commercials, and concert halls. They may also arrange existing pieces for different ensembles or vocal settings, often working freelance or for production houses.
Arts Administrator/Manager: An M.M. provides a strong foundation for managing arts organizations such as symphony orchestras, opera companies, music festivals, or university music departments. Roles can include artistic planning, marketing, fundraising, operations, and public relations, requiring a blend of musical knowledge and business acumen.
Music Producer/Audio Engineer: Graduates with a strong understanding of music theory and performance, coupled with technical skills, can work in music production. They oversee recording sessions, mix and master tracks, and shape the overall sound of a musical recording, often in recording studios or for independent artists.
Music Therapist (with additional certification): While often requiring specialized certification beyond the M.M., a master's in music can serve as a strong foundation for pursuing a career in music therapy. Music therapists use music to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals in various healthcare and educational settings.
Church/Sacred Music Director: Many churches and religious institutions employ music directors to lead choirs, plan worship music, manage musical programs, and often perform as instrumentalists or vocalists. This role requires strong musical, leadership, and organizational skills.
Music Librarian/Archivist (with additional training): Graduates with an M.M. and an interest in historical preservation can pursue careers as music librarians or archivists. While an additional Master of Library Science (MLS) is often required, the M.M. provides invaluable subject matter expertise for organizing, preserving, and providing access to musical scores, recordings, and historical documents in academic libraries, historical societies, or special collections.
