Overview

The Music Performance programme at the University of South Dakota provides a rigorous professional foundation for students dedicated to achieving excellence in musical artistry. This degree combines intensive individual studio instruction with extensive ensemble participation to prepare graduates for the global stage. Students engage with a curriculum that balances practical skill development with deep theoretical understanding.

Why Music Performance at University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota offers a unique environment characterised by small class sizes and a faculty of internationally recognised performers and scholars. The Department of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring high educational standards. Students have access to the world-renowned National Music Museum, providing unparalleled opportunities to study historic instruments. Furthermore, the university’s ensembles frequently win prestigious regional and national competitions and participate in annual international tours.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to foster both technical proficiency and historical context. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Composition
Music History
Musical Instruments
Orchestral Conducting
Voice & Opera
Jazz Studies
Piano Pedagogy
Choral Activities

Careers with Music Performance

Graduates of the Music Performance programme are equipped for diverse roles within the creative industries. The training provided at the University of South Dakota prepares students for careers as professional soloists, orchestral musicians, and chamber performers. Many alumni also find success in the following areas:

Professional Conducting for choirs and instrumental ensembles.
Opera performance and lyric theatre production.
Studio teaching and private instrumental instruction.
Music direction for community and professional organisations.
Graduate research and advanced academic study in musicology or performance.

The programme's emphasis on collaborative work and creative thinking ensures that students are versatile professionals ready to shape the future of music.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Appreciation

Music Theory

Pedagogy

Music Cultures of the World

Electronic Music

Form and Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

Music Performance View 721 other Bachelors in Music Performance in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

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

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 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 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

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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