Overview

The Music Performance programme at Portland State University provides students with world-class instruction designed to refine their artistic craft within a vibrant urban setting. This degree empowers undergraduates to become confident performers while pursuing ambitious professional goals in the heart of a major arts district.

Students receive a thorough musical foundation through specialised coursework and one-on-one mentorship from internationally renowned faculty. The curriculum balances intensive applied lessons with immersive experiences in award-winning large ensembles, chamber groups, and solo recitals. This rigorous training prepares graduates for the demands of the modern music industry.

Why Music Performance at Portland State University?

Portland State University is located just steps away from the Oregon Symphony, providing students with unmatched access to professional performing arts. The institution 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 university is recognised for its commitment to student success and hands-on learning. The campus serves as a hub within Portland’s performing arts district, allowing students to gain real-world experience through community connections and local performance opportunities.

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 focuses on technical mastery and theoretical understanding. Modules may include:

Classical Instrumental Performance
Keyboard Skills
Music Theory
Pedagogy
Applied Lessons
Chamber Ensembles
Large Ensembles
Solo Recital

Careers with Music Performance

Graduates of the Music Performance programme often progress to prestigious graduate schools or establish careers as freelance performers and private instructors. Alumni have secured positions with the Oregon Symphony, Portland Opera, and the Oregon Ballet Theater Orchestra.

Beyond the stage, the degree prepares students for various roles within the creative industries. Career paths include arts administration, arranging, music production, and composition. Former students also hold leadership roles at organisations such as the Kennedy Center, Portland Youth Philharmonic, and All Classical Radio.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory

Sight-Singing/Ear Training

Advanced Class Piano

Music History: Classical & Romantic

Form & Analysis

Conducting

Wind Ensemble

Orchestra

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 Performance View 721 other Bachelors in Music Performance in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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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 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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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