Overview

The Music programme at San Diego State University provides a rigorous academic and artistic foundation for students pursuing careers in the performing arts. This bachelor degree emphasises a balance between traditional musical values and modern innovation to prepare graduates for the evolving global industry. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates practical performance with critical theoretical inquiry.

The School of Music and Dance fosters a diverse environment where creative expression and scholarly research are equally valued. By engaging with accomplished faculty members, students develop the technical skills and aesthetic perspectives necessary to succeed as professional musicians, educators, or researchers. The programme is dedicated to advocating for the essential role of the arts within society.

Why Music at San Diego State University?

San Diego State University offers an exceptional range of facilities, including the first Global Performance Lab in the CSU system, which allows for real-time international masterclasses via Internet2. Students have access to specialised spaces such as the Smith Recital Hall, the SDSU Sound Laboratory for immersive audio research, and state-of-the-art electronic music studios.

The institution boasts a rich history in musical education dating back to 1898, providing a deeply rooted academic tradition. With dedicated rehearsal rooms, digital keyboard labs, and a specialised Indonesian Gamelan room, the university ensures that students train in a professional-grade environment. Partnerships with regional and national organisations further enhance career development opportunities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Brass Program
Composition & Technology
Conducting
Jazz Studies
Music Education
Music Entrepreneurship & Business
Music Recording Technology & Audio Design
Critical Studies in Music
Performance Studies

Careers with Music

Graduates of the programme are prepared for diverse professional pathways including roles as performers, educators, and researchers. The curriculum is designed to empower students with the critical skills required for employment in fields related to music production, audio design, and arts administration. Many alumni find success in community engagement, professional ensembles, and international artistic organisations.

The school provides specific career development support and practical training to help students transition into the professional workforce. By focusing on applied skills and professional engagement, the programme ensures that graduates can articulate the importance of the arts while securing roles in competitive creative industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Brass Instruments (euphonium, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba) Repertoire

Conducting Repertoire

Composition Repertoire

Jazz Studies Repertoire

Music Recording Technology & Audio Design Repertoire

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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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

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2691 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)
Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

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

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 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 Music.

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

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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