Master of Music in Instrumental Conducting in Fargo United States | North Dakota State University

Three specialized tracks are available: Performance, Conducting, and Music Education. The Performance, Choral Conducting, and Instrumental Conducting programs each require at least 30 credits, while Music Education necessitates 32 credits. The Master of Music (M.M.) in performance and conducting serves as the professional credential for musicians seeking to enhance their artistic abilities. The M.M. in Music Education caters to educators aiming to expand their teaching methodologies. Prospective students can submit applications online at www.ndsu.edu/gradschool, including three recommendation letters, academic transcripts, and a writing sample. Applicants should inform the graduate music coordinator, jo.millerndsu.edu, about their application plans. Performance and conducting candidates must visit campus for an audition. Accepted students will take a diagnostic test to help advisors tailor their curriculum.

A minimum grade of B is required for all courses. Students must pass comprehensive written exams in their specialization and music academics before or after completing coursework. The final oral examination, conducted by the student's committee, follows the written exams. Conducting and performance students will present a recital as their culminating project, while music education candidates complete a written practicum. Both projects are developed with committee oversight, consisting of three faculty members: the advisor, a music academics representative, and another music faculty member.

The Music Theory Pedagogy M.M. option serves two key objectives: (1) broadening graduate students' expertise and (2) enhancing their competitiveness for academic positions, particularly in higher education. Today's academic job market values candidates with diverse specializations, often including music history and theory knowledge. Successful applicants typically possess both teaching experience and relevant credentials. This program equips students with advanced music theory knowledge and teaching skills for undergraduate courses. Designed for performers and conductors seeking university positions that combine performance and teaching, the Music Theory Pedagogy track can be pursued alongside another M.M. or DMA program or as a standalone degree with its distinct course requirements.