Overview

The Jazz Studies programme at the University of Kansas provides a prestigious environment for students to develop their musical artistry through rigorous performance and academic training. This curriculum is designed to set a national standard for excellence, blending practical ensemble experience with deep theoretical understanding. Students benefit from a vibrant community that celebrates the rich history and future of the genre.

Why Jazz Studies at the University of Kansas?

The University of Kansas is home to a nationally recognised jazz department that has earned numerous accolades, including over 20 DownBeat Student Music Awards. Students have the unique opportunity to perform in three large jazz ensembles and six jazz combos, which are open to all university members regardless of their primary major. The institution frequently hosts clinics and master classes featuring legendary artists such as Wynton Marsalis and Maria Schneider, providing direct access to industry leaders.

Facilities like Murphy Hall and the Bales Organ Recital Hall offer exceptional spaces for practice and performance. The programme is led by distinguished faculty who are active performers and composers, ensuring that the teaching remains relevant to the modern music industry. Furthermore, the annual KU Jazz Festival brings together dozens of ensembles from across the country, offering students a platform to showcase their talents in a professional, non-competitive environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30177 per year
National fee: USD 30177 per year
Local fee: USD 11298 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances performance requirements with essential academic coursework to provide a well-rounded musical education. Modules may include:

Jazz Ensembles
Jazz Combos
Arranging
Improvisation
Jazz History
Jazz Theory
Jazz Pedagogy
Liberal Arts

Careers with Jazz Studies

Graduates from the University of Kansas are prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry. Many alumni pursue careers as professional performers in jazz orchestras, small ensembles, or as solo recording artists. The programme also equips students with the skills necessary for roles in music education, pedagogy, and composition. By engaging with high-profile guest clinicians and participating in international festivals, students build the professional networks required to succeed in competitive musical environments.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Composition

Theory

Lessons

Music History

Jazz Theory

Improv

Jazz Piano

Jazz Arranging

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-25 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lawrence, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2690 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for all previous coursework, including transfer coursework.
KU’s $90 application processing fee, payable by credit card.
English proficiency scores sent to KU by your testing agency.
Proof of high school graduation particular to your country.
Academic records. They can accept unofficial transcripts as part of the application, however, they must receive official transcripts before you enroll in an academic program.
If applicable: Educational Gap Statement. If, after high school, there was a period of time longer than three months that you were not enrolled in any educational program, you must write a short statement about your activity during that time. If you attended courses of any kind, include that information.
If applicable: SAT or ACT scores.

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

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Out-of-State

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11298 USD / year

≈ 11298 USD / year

Living costs

Lawrence

United States

900 - 1400 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 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

Lawrence

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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