Overview

The Performance programme at Southern Methodist University offers an intensive artistic education designed to cultivate world-class musicians. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that balances technical mastery with creative expression to prepare for the evolving demands of the professional music industry.

This degree is hosted within the prestigious Meadows School of the Arts, providing a vibrant environment where students can thrive as artists, educators, and advocates. The curriculum is structured to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to contribute significantly to cultural life and compete successfully for entry-level employment.

Why Performance at Southern Methodist University?

Studying at the Meadows School of the Arts provides students with access to exceptional facilities and a community of dedicated professionals. The institution is renowned for its commitment to excellence in the arts, offering a supportive atmosphere that encourages both individual growth and collaborative performance.

The university maintains strong links to the cultural heart of Dallas, allowing students to immerse themselves in a diverse artistic landscape. With a focus on professional readiness, the programme ensures that every student receives the guidance necessary to navigate a rapidly changing global arts market.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30940 per semester
National fee: USD 30940 per semester
Local fee: USD 30940 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum allows for specialisation across a wide range of musical disciplines. Modules may include:

Bassoon
Clarinet
Euphonium
Flute
French horn
Oboe
Saxophone
Trombone
Trumpet
Tuba
Guitar
Organ
Percussion
Piano
Strings
Voice

Careers with Performance

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of professional pathways within the music and performing arts sectors. Many alumni pursue careers as professional performers in orchestras, chamber ensembles, or as solo artists, while others find success in music education and arts administration.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to continue their training at the postgraduate level. By developing versatile skills in performance and advocacy, students are positioned to become influential leaders and creative contributors in diverse cultural organisations worldwide.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Musicianship

Music Theory

Music in World Societies

Music in History and Culture

Survey of Music History

Private Study: Guitar

Junior Recital

Senior Recital

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dallas, United States

Disciplines

Music Drama Music Performance View 1331 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed application

$60 nonrefundable application fee

Official high school transcript

Official or self-reported SAT or ACT scores.

Official TOEFL, IELTS, OR Duolingo English Test (DET) results are required for students whose language of instruction is bilingual or not solely in English.

Counselor recommendation

Teacher recommendation (optional)

Extracurricular résumé

Home School Supplement (if applicable)

Review audition and portfolio requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Out-of-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year

Living costs

Dallas

United States

1140 - 1925 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Performance.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Dallas

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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