Graduate Admissions
Application deadlines are specific to degree programs. Find yours below.
Your Next Step
SMTD prepares world-class performing artists and leading arts scholars to launch successful careers. SMTD offers 25 graduate degree programs. Hone your talent and deepen your expertise, supported by the mentorship of faculty who are not only celebrated artists and scholars, but also highly-skilled and dedicated teachers.
Prepare to Apply
Review the required information and documentation for your degree before you begin the application procedure.
Artistic Profile
Our admissions process looks at both artistic preparation and academic achievement.
Audition & Interview Dates and Information
Audition schedules fill quickly, so we may not be able to accommodate all audition date preferences.
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Deadlines for Graduate Applicants
Enrollment Deposit Due April 15
Once you are admitted, a non-refundable enrollment deposit of $300 will reserve your place at U-M. The money will be credited to your student account upon enrollment. The enrollment deposit is waived if you accept a merit-based scholarship.
Closed Programs (Fall 2024 Term)
The following programs are fully enrolled and will not be accepting applications for Fall 2024 admission:
- DMA in Bassoon Performance
- DMA in French Horn Performance
- DMA in Harpsichord Performance
- DMA in Saxophone Performance
- DMA in Trumpet Performance
- DMA in Tuba Performance
Costs, Financial Aid & Scholarships
Graduate students may be eligible for need-based aid including work-study and loans. We encourage you to explore all of your financial aid options. To be considered for a merit-based scholarship, you must submit your application and all other required materials by the deadline.
Application Deadlines for Masters & Specialist Admission
November 1
MFA in Dance
December 1
MM in Composition
MA in Composition
MM in Conducting
MM in Improvisation
MA in Media Arts
MM in Music Education (Academic Year)
MM in Performance
SM in Performance
February 5
MM in Music Education Summer Program
Application Deadlines for Doctoral Admission
December 1
DMA in Composition
PhD in Composition and Music Theory
DMA in Conducting
DMA in Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation
PhD in Music Education
PhD in Musicology
DMA in Performance
December 10
PhD in Performing Arts Technology
January 5
PhD in Music Theory
Application Deadlines for Certificate Admission
November 1
Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship & Leadership (Winter term admission)
March 15
Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship & Leadership (Fall term admission)
In rare instances, we will accept applications for admission after December 1 depending on availability. Applications are considered on-time through 11:59pm in the applicant’s time zone on the deadline date. For example, an applicant living in Chicago must submit by 11:59pm Central Time on December 1.
Ready to apply?
You’ve prepared your artistic profile and reviewed prerequisites and pre-screening requirements – now its time to put it all in motion!