Music—Jazz Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Music—Jazz Studies Bachelors Degree at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is designed for aspiring musicians who wish to deepen their understanding and practice of jazz performance, improvisation, and theory. You will engage with the vibrant jazz scene, building essential skills through weekly private instruction, dedicated improvisation study, and comprehensive courses in jazz theory, arranging, and composition. This program is ideal for students seeking to develop their unique artistic voice within the rich tradition of jazz, preparing you for a dynamic career in music. Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago offers a supportive environment for your musical growth.

You will study full-time on campus over four years, immersing yourself in a curriculum that includes extensive private lessons, small jazz ensembles, and master classes. Your day-to-day experience will involve rigorous practice, ensemble work, and exploration of jazz history and keyboard techniques, alongside opportunities to engage with Chicago's world-renowned jazz community. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Music, ready to pursue performance, composition, education, or other pathways within the professional music industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in jazz studies, encompassing music theory, ear training, and keyboard skills. Students will engage in private instrumental or voice lessons, participate in various jazz ensembles, and explore jazz improvisation and arranging. The curriculum also includes academic writing, jazz history, and world music cultures, preparing students for diverse musical careers.

1 Fall Semester

Music Theory I
Ear Training I
Convocation/Recital
Keyboard Skills I
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
Small Jazz Ensemble
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts
Jazz Fundamentals I

2 Spring Semester

Music Theory II
Ear Training II
Convocation/Recital
Small Jazz Ensemble
Keyboard Skills II
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
UIC First-Year Dialogue Seminar
Jazz Fundamentals II

3 Fall Semester

Convocation/Recital
Jazz Improvisation I
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
Theory of Music III
Ear Training III
General Education Core course
Vocal Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble

4 Spring Semester

Convocation/Recital
Jazz Improvisation II
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
Theory of Music IV
Ear Training IV
Music Technology
History of Western Music I: Music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance
Vocal Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble

5 Fall Semester

Master Class in Performance
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
History of Western Music II: Music of the Baroque and Classical Periods
Jazz Arranging I
Jazz Theory and Keyboard I
General Education Core course
Vocal Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble or Small Jazz Ensemble

6 Spring Semester

Master Class in Performance
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Voice Lessons
Jazz Theory and Keyboard II
History of Western Music III: Music from Romanticism through the Present
Jazz History
Jazz Arranging II
Vocal Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble or Small Jazz Ensemble

7 Fall Semester

Master Class in Performance
Advanced Private Instrumental Lessons or Advanced Private Voice Lessons
Ensemble
Digital Music Engraving
General Education Core course
Select one of the following

8 Spring Semester

Master Class in Performance
Advanced Private Instrumental Lessons or Advanced Private Voice Lessons
Music Cultures of the World
Ensemble
General Education Core course
General Education Core course
Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaHigher Education & UniversitiesTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Music—Jazz Studies at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at University of Illinois Chicago 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 Music—Jazz Studies at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn’t require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements: TOEFL (overall 80), IELTS (overall 6.5), or PTE (overall 54). Ensure you achieve the necessary scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Jazz Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Arranger, and Sound Engineer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program develops the special talents and improvisation skills of our creative artists through weekly private instruction, improvisation study and extensive courses in jazz theory, arranging, composition, jazz

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intake months for the Music—Jazz Studies program are January, May, and August. Make sure to apply before these dates to secure your place.
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