Overview

The Music - Jazz Studies programme at Portland State University offers a creative and rigorous environment for musicians looking to master the art of jazz performance. This bachelor degree focuses on developing a bold imagination while providing the technical support necessary to advance a professional career in the arts. Students engage with a curriculum that balances traditional music foundations with specialised contemporary training.

Why Music - Jazz Studies at Portland State University?

Portland State University provides a unique urban setting where jazz majors gain real-world experience through local gigs in Portland and on-campus concerts. The School of Music & Theater holds the prestigious All-Steinway School designation and is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. As a national College of Distinction, the institution is recognised for its commitment to student success and high-quality facilities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a thorough foundation in performance and theory. Modules may include:

Jazz Performance
Improvisation
Jazz History
Arranging
Large Ensembles
Combos
Solo Recital

Careers with Music - Jazz Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry or for further academic study at the postgraduate level. Many alumni pursue careers as freelance jazz musicians, performing at renowned venues such as Smalls Jazz Club or appearing on national television broadcasts. The programme also equips students for professional paths in the following areas:

Music Teacher
Arts Administrator
Arranger
Composer
Private Instructor

Whether performing in local jazz venues and theatres or touring internationally, graduates apply their creative skills across a variety of professional settings. The degree provides the necessary confidence and technical proficiency to succeed in a dynamic and competitive field.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory

Sight-Singing/Ear Training

Jazz Improvisation

Advanced Class Piano

Music History: 20th Century

Jazz History

Jazz Combo

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2691 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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

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Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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 - Jazz Studies.

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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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