Music

Program Type
Undergraduate Major
Degree
Bachelor of Art (BA)
Modes of Study
Blended;In Person

Full-time tuition

In-state: $8,910;
Out-of-state: $26,250 (30 credit hours per year). New England residents may qualify for tuition breaks. See details and other costs

Financial aid

Average offer covers a large portion of tuition & fees.
In-state: nearly 100%;
Out-of-state: nearly 70%.
May include scholarships, grants, waiver, & work-study. Explore aid

Program duration

Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options

Admissions

SAT & ACT scores optional. Audition required. Early action & year-round admissions. View application process & deadlines

Program Highlights

  • Prepare for a wide range of careers: Our flexible BA program allows you to explore a liberal arts curriculum within and beyond music.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant greater Portland arts scene.
  • Benefit from community partnerships with esteemed organizations such as the Portland Symphony Orchestra, Casco Bay Wind Symphony, Portland Jazz Orchestra, Opera Maine, and others.
  • Study in a program that is accredited by the National Association of Schools and Music (NASM).
  • Take advantage of our recording facilities, practice rooms, rehearsal and performance venues that provide experience with the logistics of performing arts careers.
  • Learn from a faculty of nationally and internationally distinguished performers, teachers, scholars, and mentors with experience in a comprehensive range of genres.
A laptop and microphone.

Diverse career paths

Students prepare for careers in music technology, recording, songwriting, or musicology and also pursue roles in music therapy and arts management. Our program will also prepare you to continue with graduate studies in music.

A group of students sit with books open.

Scholarships for Music majors

We offer Merit Scholarships as well as scholarships specifically for Music majors. Keep in mind that there are deadlines for all scholarship opportunities. Be sure to apply and audition by each respective deadline.

A view of Corthell Hall with fall foliage.

Faculty of distinguished performers

We offer a personalized and opportunity-based approach to educating musicians, featuring a faculty of distinguished performers (nationally and internationally), teachers, scholars, and mentors with experience in all styles of music.

Students sitting at a picnic table in front of Corthell Hall.

Program requirements

Build a thorough understanding of music and its relationship to contemporary society, including history and theory. Curriculum covers music theory, sight singing and aural skills, music history, and piano. Our flexible program allows you to also explore the arts and sciences.

A rocky river with mountains in the background and, bordered by tree with autumn-colored leaves.

Do you live in New England?

You may be eligible for a special reduced tuition rate, as part of the New England Regional Student Program (RSP).

A vibraphone and music stand.

Talent of the highest caliber

In order to be accepted into the Osher School of Music and join a group of other talented musicians, students must first audition as part of the application process.

The Southern Maine Symphony Orchestra on stage at the Merrill Auditorium in Portland.

Our performance season

Attend and engage in our Faculty Concert Series; the Southern Maine Symphony Orchestra; Scholarship Gala; Chamber Singers; University Chorale; Concert Band; our annual musical; opera; ensembles of jazz, vocal jazz, winds, and composers; as well as student recitals, masterclasses and performances by internationally known guest musicians.

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Next steps

Our helpful admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services. We also invite you to explore the many ways to visit campus or to engage with us through online experiences.

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