Music Oakland University

Overview

The Music programme at Oakland University provides a rigorous and vibrant environment for students to develop their artistic and intellectual potential. This comprehensive curriculum at Oakland University is designed to prepare graduates for professional success through a blend of theoretical study and extensive practical performance.

Students benefit from a supportive community where they work alongside nationally and internationally recognised faculty. The department is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring that the educational standards meet the highest professional requirements in the field of musical arts.

Why Music at Oakland University?

The institution offers distinctive teaching features, including the Oakland Symphony Orchestra as the ensemble in residence. Students have access to exceptional facilities at Varner Hall and benefit from a unique partnership with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, whose affiliate faculty provide expert applied instruction.

The programme is known for its active learning approach, offering over 100 annual public concerts and guest artist series. Distinctive study abroad opportunities are available in Ghana and St. Lucia, allowing students to explore global musical traditions and gain international perspectives on their craft.

Undergraduate students are supported by the university pledge, which guarantees meaningful hands-on learning experiences. This includes faculty-guided research, professional internships in music education, and the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues such as Orchestra Hall in Detroit.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 23867 per year
• National fee: USD 23867 per year
• Local fee: USD 16772 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Instrumental Performance
• Jazz Studies
• Music Composition
• Music Technology
• Music Theory
• World Music
• Music Education
• Choral and General Music
• Piano Pedagogy
• Instrumental and General Music
• Piano Performance
• Voice Performance
• Conducting
• Jazz Theory
• Jazz History and Analysis
• Arranging
• Contemporary and Classical Voice Styles

Ensemble participation options include:

• Wind Symphony
• Symphonic Band
• Golden Grizzlies Band
• Brass Band
• University Chamber Orchestra
• Flute Ensemble
• Clarinet Ensemble
• Saxophone Ensemble
• Brass Chamber Music
• Percussion Ensemble
• Guitar Ensemble
• Steel Band
• African Ensemble
• Latin Jazz Ensemble
• Creative Jazz Ensemble
• Jazz Singers
• Oakland Chorale
• University Chorus
• Opera Workshop
• Symphony Chorus

Careers with Music

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for diverse roles in the global music industry, including professional performance and music education. Many alumni secure positions as teachers at elementary, secondary, and collegiate levels across the United States and internationally.

The curriculum provides a strong foundation for further academic pursuit, with many graduates moving on to prestigious postgraduate institutions. Former students have successfully transitioned into careers as professional orchestral musicians, choral directors, and innovators in the field of music technology.