Master of Music

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Elevate your musical artistry and advance your career with the Master of Music program at Southern Illinois University. This postgraduate degree is designed for dedicated musicians seeking to deepen their expertise in performance, conducting, music theory, composition, music history, music education, or collaborative piano. You will engage with a vibrant academic community, benefiting from extensive performing opportunities and rigorous training that prepares you for the dynamic demands of the professional music world. Southern Illinois University offers a comprehensive curriculum across nine distinct concentrations, ensuring you can tailor your studies to your specific aspirations.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Music program is typically completed over two years, immersing you in a rich environment of musical practice and scholarly inquiry. You will work alongside faculty mentors and collaborate with peers in a wide array of ensembles, from orchestras and choirs to jazz groups and opera productions. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, including opportunities for graduate recitals, thesis projects, or major compositions, depending on your chosen concentration. Upon completion, you will graduate with advanced skills and a refined artistic voice, ready to pursue fulfilling careers as performers, educators, composers, conductors, or music scholars.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Music program offers specialized concentrations in Performance, including Orchestral Instruments, Piano, and Vocal studies. Students will engage in advanced performance coursework, ensemble participation, and scholarly music electives. This program is designed to cultivate high-level artistic and technical proficiency in their chosen performance area.

1 Performance Concentration

Performance Emphasis - Orchestral Instruments Compulsory
MUS 502A or MUS 502B Compulsory
MUS 440A-Y Compulsory
MUS 540A-Y Compulsory
MUS 565A-H* Compulsory
MUS 595 Compulsory
MUS 598 Compulsory
MUS 566C or MUS 566D Compulsory
MUS 470, MUS 471, MUS 472, MUS 474, MUS 475, MUS 476, MUS 477, MUS 478A, MUS 478B, MUS 573, or MUS 574 Compulsory
MUS 461 Compulsory
MUS 472, MUS 479A-I, MUS 481, MUS 482, MUS 499, or approved graduate music electives Compulsory

2 Performance Emphasis - Piano

MUS 501 Compulsory
MUS 502A and MUS 502B Compulsory
MUS 440Q Compulsory
MUS 540Q Compulsory
MUS 595 Compulsory
MUS 598 Compulsory
MUS 566K, MUS 565F Compulsory
MUS 565A-H or MUS 566A-L Compulsory
MUS 470, MUS 471, MUS 472, MUS 474, MUS 475, MUS 476, MUS 477, MUS 478A, MUS 478B, MUS 573, or MUS 574 Compulsory
MUS 461 Compulsory
MUS 472, MUS 479A-I, MUS 481, MUS 482, MUS 499 or approved graduate music electives Compulsory

3 Performance Emphasis - Vocal

MUS 501 Compulsory
MUS 502A or MUS 502B Compulsory
MUS 470 Compulsory
MUS 440P Compulsory
MUS 540P Compulsory
MUS 598 Compulsory
MUS 595 Compulsory
MUS 566F Compulsory
MUS 401 Compulsory
MUS 403 Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignFashion Technology & E-CommerceMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSecondary & High School EducationSustainable & Ethical FashionTextile & Fabric Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago Public Schools

Why Study Master of Music at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Music at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English test requirements vary by test type. For Duolingo, an overall score of 115 is needed, while TOEFL requires an overall score of 80 and IELTS mandates a score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as performers, educators, composers, conductors, or music scholars.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Master of Music program at Southern Illinois University focuses on areas such as performance and music education. This two-year, full-time program offers extensive performing opportunities and rigorous training to develop your musical skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Music program has intake months in January and August each year. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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