University of Maryland Baltimore County

Program Information

Degree Offered

Certificate in American Contemporary Music

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Certificate Program in American Contemporary Music at the University of MD-Baltimore County (UMBC)is a unique post-baccalaureate program giving students a year or more to help them prepare for graduate school or other professional opportunities. Students design their own programs in composition, performance, jazz studies or music technology; they participate in ensembles, take a graduate level seminar and continue private study of their instrument and/or discipline. Our internationally recognized faculty work intensively with students in our diverse and warm musical community. Students perform with faculty and may have the opportunity to teach as well. Capstone projects complete the experience and have included evening-long recitals, video-music productions, large jazz ensemble works and other major compositional projects. Professional recordings are made of all major performances.

Some foreign undergraduates may be admitted under special circumstances. Upon attaining a TOEFL score of 550, they may be admitted to the undergraduate music program.
International students may also concentrate on improving their English by taking intensive classes at UMBC’s English Language Center in order to pass the required language test (TOEFL ) for American graduate schools.

We also help participants identify and apply to appropriate graduate schools. Our graduates have been accepted at Peabody, Cal Arts, Boston Conservatory, Hartt School of Music and other fine graduate programs. Many institutions accept UMBC graduate credits. Students benefit from the rich cultural diversity of the Baltimore-Washington region and proximity to New York. In-state and out-of-state tuition rates apply. Contact Director for current tuition rates.

Eligibility Requirements:

All students must submit a portfolio including:
UMBC Graduate Certificate Program application;
Transcript of Bachelor's degree;
$70 non-refundable application fee to UMBC;
Resume and 2 reference letters;
PERFORMANCE EMPHASIS-VHS, DVD or CD of 3 pieces from 3 contrasting eras
COMPOSITION EMPHASIS-Scores and CD or DVD of 3 works
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY EMPHASIS-CD or DVD of at least 6 tracks demonstrating your proficiency with various musical styles. If available, you may also submit other examples of your work produced with software such as Max/MSP, Live or Final Cut Pro. Any other pertinent music technology experiences (DVD authoring, sound for video, programming etc.) should be clearly described and included with the portfolio.
International students must submit English Lang. Center application and proof of financial deposits.

International Student Requirements:

International students will be accepted with under 550 TOEFL score. Audition materials required.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Large Suburb

Size & Settings: 10,000 - 19,999