The program of
study leading to the master of music (M.M.) degree in jazz is open to students
with a bachelor of music (B.M.) degree or bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree (or
equivalent) in music. Applicants who hold a B.A. in another field may apply but
will be required to undergo additional testing to demonstrate their proficiency
in music. To gain admittance to the program, applicants must demonstrate the
level of performance skill and musicianship necessary to start a professional
career.
Required Course of Study
Completion of the program normally takes two
years, but the time limit for the M.M. degree is four years from the time of
matriculation. Exceptions to extend the time limit may be made with the
approval of the Graduate Oversight Committee, the graduate adviser, and the dean.
A total of 36 credits is required,
distributed as follows:
1. Four semesters of performance study (12 credits), culminating in a degree recital (1 credit). This performance is evaluated by a faculty committee consisting of the student's major teacher and an additional faculty member approved by the graduate adviser. The student must receive a passing evaluation from both of the committee members, with the result of a split evaluation determined by the graduate adviser.
2. Four semesters of jazz ensemble (4 credits).
3. Two courses (6 credits) in graduate-level jazz theory.
4. Two courses (6 credits) in graduate-level jazz historiography.
5. Six (6) credits of Graduate Jazz Improvisation and one (1) credit of Jazz Chamber Ensemble.