Program Overview

Introduction to the Conducting Concentration

The Conducting Concentration for the Master of Arts in Music degree program is designed for students who are ready to take their conducting career to the next level. Through academic coursework, individualized instruction, and extensive podium time in rehearsal and performance with UCF ensembles, this program provides the advanced education, training, and experience to position students for high-level professional application and further study.

Program Structure

Students can pursue the program either part-time or full-time to fit their schedule, and some assistantships are available for full-time graduate students in music. The concentration includes four semesters of private conducting study, including repertoire study, to provide intense training in conducting. Students will also conduct graduate recital performances and take a comprehensive exam as a culmination of their experiences.

Why Study at UCF?

What sets UCF apart is that graduate students will work with and learn directly from highly trained faculty that are at the top of their field. UCF is also the only music graduate program in Central Florida. Because the campus is in Orlando, an international hub of entertainment, many graduates take advantage of gaining experience through freelance gigs, theme park work, and more while completing their studies.

Alumni Successes

Alumni of the M.A. Music program have had successes in many areas. Some stay in their current positions with added confidence and skill, while some have used the degree to qualify for new positions, such as college or university level instructors. Others have gone on to doctorate programs in performance, musicology, and more.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

A limited number of Graduate Teaching Assistantship positions normally become open for the fall semester each year. Some of the positions are targeted toward specific areas of need, and others are more general. In return for work in the department assisting with courses, GTA students receive a waiver for the tuition portion of 9 credit hours each semester, health insurance, and a cash stipend.

Graduate Theory Diagnostic Test

All Music M.A. students are required to take the Graduate Theory Diagnostic Test at the beginning of their first semester. The purpose of this exam is to confirm that the student is properly prepared for music theory study at the graduate level.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Master of Arts in Music degree program, students must first apply to UCF through the College of Graduate Studies. As part of the UCF Graduate Studies application, students will be presented with one of four ways to be considered for acceptance by the Music faculty: audition, submit a portfolio, submit a recording, or be interviewed.

Application Steps

• Apply to UCF Graduate Admissions
• Submit one of the following:
  • Instrument/Voice Auditions
  • Portfolios (most appropriate for composition applicants)
  • Interviews (appropriate for other areas)
• Submit two letters of recommendation
• Submit all college transcripts
• Submit a scholarly or academic essay of at least 1,000 words on some topic in music or music education

Achievement and Pre-Screening

Supplemental to the application file for admission to UCF's College of Graduate Studies, M.A. Conducting applicants should also submit the following pre-screening materials:

• Current resume highlighting significant musical and professional accomplishments
• 15-20 minutes of conducting video: performance, rehearsal, or a combination of both

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Master of Arts in Music different from a Master of Music degree?

The M.A. in Music allows more flexibility in the curriculum and in structuring specialty areas as needed than the M.M.

I have a job that I don't want to quit. Can I work on the M.A part-time or in the summer?

Yes. The course offering schedule will accommodate full-time professionals by offering evening courses during the academic year plus limited courses in the summer.

Can I major in a specific area, such as performance or conducting?

Two Concentrations are offered: the Conducting Concentration provides intense training in the art of conducting, with repertoire study included; and the Music Studies Concentration provides flexibility to allow students to focus on other areas of interest.

Does the UCF Music Department ever plan to offer a Master of Music degree?

The Music Department may consider a Master of Music in the future. However, the Master of Arts in Music has the flexibility to allow students to focus on their areas of interest.

Are courses offered online?

The department offers a limited number of online courses in the M.A. in Music.