University of California, Irvine

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.F.A. in Music

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The MFA in Music Program at the University of California, Irvine is intended to prepare students to enter the field as professional composers or performers. Candidates must demonstrate technical proficiency and advanced competence as composers or performers, a substantial knowledge of the relevant music literature, and a command of those aspects of music theory and music history that support and illuminate informed performance. The Music MFA Degree Program has specific Admissions and degree requirements . In addition, applicants must meet the University of California, Irvine Admission Requirements applicable for all students wishing to pursue and graduate degree; e.g., MFA.

Accreditation:

UC Irvine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). In addition, the University of California requires that all graduate degree programs undergo a rigorous external academic review every 5 years.

Eligibility Requirements:

Applications MUST be accompanied by a writing sample in English & preferably on a musical topic. This requirement may be fulfilled by the submission of an undergraduate paper or example of similar size & scope. Applicants must audition for members of the Music faculty by February 1. In exceptional cases (if approved in advance by the Music graduate advisor), a recently recorded performance may be accepted in lieu of a live audition. Applicants in composition must, in addition, submit a representative sample of scores and recordings of their works.

Applicants are expected to have good general knowledge of music history and music theory, competence in basic musicianship skills, including sight-singing, written and keyboard harmony, dictation, and basic keyboard facility (including sight-reading). Entering students will be given diagnostic tests in these areas prior to the beginning of classes and will be required to remedy any evident deficiencies during the 1st year in the program.

International Student Requirements:

International Student applicants of recognized academic institutions outside the United States should have completed degree programs representing a minimum of 16 years of schooling with at least 12 years at the primary and secondary levels. Please see the list of countries on the UC Irvine Graduate Division Website for the minimum academic requirements. International applicants are also required to submit TOEFL or IELTS test scores along with their application. For the minimum English Language Proficiency test scores accepted, please visit the UCI Graduate Division Website.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Midsize City

Size & Settings: 20,000 and above