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Nestled close to Chicago, the heart of jazz, Northwestern's Jazz Studies program creates the perfect setting for aspiring jazz artists.
This program awards both Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees. Students perform with the Jazz Orchestra and smaller groups, plus enjoy access to Chicago's vibrant jazz community. The faculty consists of active performers from top global jazz ensembles. Participants benefit from one-on-one lessons with jazz instructors and explore subjects like improvisation, advanced techniques, and jazz theory and history.
Beyond top-tier training at the Bienen School of Music, students can pursue rigorous academic programs across disciplines—a unique advantage of attending a leading research institution. Alumni of the jazz program hold prominent performance and academic positions across the U.S. and internationally.
Admitted students must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a comparable non-U.S. degree from a regionally accredited institution.
TOEFL or IELTS test scores are required of most international applicants.