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What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework must be completed in 6 semesters (2 years of summer/fall/spring semesters)

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus, Online

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

Fall: Feb. 1 preferred deadline
Spring: Nov. 15 deadline
Summer: Mar. 1 preferred deadline

College of the Arts

Master of Music, Concentration in Conducting (Low-Residency)

School of Music

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]
404-413-5965

The Master of Music concentration in Conducting (Low-Residency) at Georgia State offers conductors who are already working in the field the opportunity to advance their education and training during the summer. Students must hold a Bachelors in Music degree and have regular access to leading a large ensemble. This degree is offered in a fully online format during the academic year (fall and spring) with an in-person format for the Summer I Session (June). Applicants may apply for fall, spring, or summer admission.

For guidance and feedback, students take the respective conducting course (Choral Conducting or Instrumental Conducting) online in either the fall or spring semester of the program. During the summer, students participate in a six-credit hour conducting seminar that overlaps with the Atlanta Summer Conducting Institute (as auditors only). One additional elective course is also available each summer to round out the needed degree credits.

What sets us apart?

Flexible, Hands On Learning

Flexible scheduling with online classes and an in-person Summer session for full-time educators and music practitioners interested in pursuing a master’s-level degree in conducting.
Hands-on experience during summer sessions working and auditing workshops and institutes, like the renowned Atlanta Summer Conducting Institute, which offers a week-long series of seminars and masterclasses geared toward music educators, graduate student conductors, church musicians and community conductors looking to grow as artists.

Conducting students in class

Vibrant Downtown Music Scene

Campus’ downtown Atlanta location fosters connections with local music ensembles and venues, like Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Red Light Cafe, City Winery, Atlanta Opera, nearby theaters, schools and churches.
Alumni, faculty and students participate in the thriving music scene, performing in various professional groups within the city.

Guest Artists and Ensembles

The School of Music hosts renowned educators and professional musicians who offer concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students.
The school is home to three resident ensembles: Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL.

Program Details

Please note: You must apply to both the Georgia State Graduate School and the School of Music.

Required University Application Materials:

Transcript(s): Upload unofficial copies of transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. The institution logo and your name must be present on the copies. Official transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program.
Official TOEFL/IELT Scores (international applicants only): Institutional code 5251 should be used for reporting TOEFL scores.
Personal Statement: Statement can be up to 500 words in length (approximately 2-pages, double spaced, using 12-point font). Respond to the following prompt: Please discuss your academic and musical goals and your reasons for applying to GSU’s graduate music program.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the online Slate application.
Writing Sample: Provide a scholarly/research paper on a subject in the field of music of a level of intellectual and critical engagement appropriate to graduate-level work.
Letters of recommendation: 2 letters of recommendation are required. Applicants must enter the names and contact information of the 2 recommenders within the application. An electronic recommendation request will be sent to recommenders, and recommendation letters must be submitted via this request. It is strongly advised that letters of recommendation are completed before the application deadline and are written within the last year. Recommendations submitted after this date are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
GPA: Students considered for admission into the graduate program generally have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Get started on the Graduate School Application.

School of Music Application Materials:

Prescreening Audition: Applicants are required to submit a prescreening video audition containing at least 20 minutes of rehearsal and/or performance footage. Upload the video(s) within the Acceptd application.
Personal Statement: Statement can be up to 500 words in length (approximately 2-pages, double spaced, using 12-point font). Respond to the following prompt: Please discuss your academic and musical goals and your reasons for applying to GSU’s graduate music program. Upload within the Acceptd application.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the Acceptd application.
International applicants: Virtual auditions may be arranged for applicants who cannot travel to the US.

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree or concentration in music, or the equivalent. Graduate Assistantships will be determined by both academic success and musical ability.

The School of Music’s conducting curriculum at GSU offers conductors a comprehensive and rigorous education. Our program combines a strong foundation in music theory, score analysis and conducting techniques with practical podium experience and mentorship from renowned faculty. Students engage in intensive rehearsals and performances with diverse ensembles, honing their skills in leading choirs, orchestras, bands or chamber groups. Through in-depth study of repertoire, conducting masterclasses and seminars on pedagogy and interpretation, our students develop a deep understanding of the conductor’s role as a musical communicator and leader. Graduates emerge as skilled conductors, equipped with the artistry, technique and critical thinking necessary for successful careers in the dynamic field of conducting.

For detailed requirements, see the course catalog.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education, and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees: There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
Honoring the continuing traditions of music-making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Career Outlook

A conducting degree at Georgia State University can significantly enhance your prospects for a successful conducting career.

With the program’s esteemed faculty and flexible format, you can refine your skills while maintaining your professional commitments. This degree opens doors to various job opportunities such as conducting positions in renowned orchestras, ensembles, and educational institutions.

Additionally, the networking opportunities provided by GSU enable you to establish valuable connections within the field, leading to potential collaborations and invitations to guest conduct. A degree from Georgia State University equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue diverse and rewarding careers within the dynamic and vibrant music industry.

Conducting students in class