The artist diploma (A.D.) program addresses the needs of those who wish to concentrate more narrowly on performance-related study than does the doctor of musical arts (D.M.A.) student. With the exception of the artist diploma in opera, this course of study requires six semesters of performance, six semesters of ensemble, and one semester of repertory/literature. The A.D. requires six semesters of chamber ensemble participation. Unlike the D.M.A., however, the A.D. program does not require formal coursework in music history or theory. Instead, students must perform five recitals, four of them solo and one a chamber recital. With the exception of the A.D. in opera, students must have a master of music (M.M.) degree or its equivalent to gain admission to the program. It is possible to complete all requirements for the artist diploma program within three years of full-time residence. In most cases, a student may not take more than five years to complete the program. With the approval of the graduate adviser, the Oversight Committee, and the dean, the school may extend this maximum time limit.

For requirements of the artist diploma program in opera, see the information on this catalog page.