Overview

The Jazz and Contemplative Studies programme at the University of Michigan provides a distinctive curriculum that merges traditional jazz performance with contemplative practices. This innovative approach encourages students to develop their artistic voice while fostering deep personal awareness and focus. By combining musical excellence with mindfulness, the course prepares graduates for a versatile career in the modern arts landscape.

Students benefit from an environment that values both technical proficiency and internal reflection. The curriculum is designed to challenge conventional boundaries, allowing musicians to explore how meditation and stillness can enhance improvisation and composition.

Why Jazz and Contemplative Studies at the University of Michigan?

Choosing this path at the University of Michigan allows students to access world-class facilities and a faculty renowned for both jazz expertise and contemplative research. The institution provides a supportive atmosphere where experimental learning is encouraged, and cross-disciplinary collaboration is a core component of the academic experience.

The university is recognised for its commitment to innovation in the performing arts. By integrating contemplative studies into the music department, the school offers a rare opportunity to study the intersection of consciousness and creativity. This unique focus helps students build resilience and mental clarity, which are essential tools for professional success in the competitive music industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63962 per year
National fee: USD 63962 per year
Local fee: USD 18346 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances core musical requirements with specialised contemplative coursework. Modules may include:

Jazz Improvisation
Contemplative Practice
Jazz Composition
Music Theory
Aural Skills
Jazz Ensemble
Contemplative Philosophy
Musicology

Careers with Jazz and Contemplative Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the music and wellness sectors. Many pursue careers as professional jazz performers, composers, or recording artists. The unique focus on mindfulness also opens pathways into music therapy, arts administration, and community outreach programmes where contemplative techniques are increasingly valued.

The analytical and reflective skills gained during the course are highly transferable. Alumni often find success in creative consultancy, education, and various roles within cultural organisations. By fostering a disciplined approach to both art and mind, the university ensures that its graduates stand out as versatile and adaptable professionals in the global marketplace.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Private lessons

Jazz studies

Music Theory

Musicology

Ensemble participation

Piano

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ann Arbor, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 2679 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed Common Application or Coalition Application with $75 application fee* payment (Please note that both application options include specific University of Michigan questions, and there is no advantage to submitting one over the other.)

High school transcript (additional requirements by country)

School Report (Common App) or Counselor Recommendation (Coalition App)*

One Teacher Evaluation (academic teacher)

SAT or ACT score

TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS scores (for non-native speakers of English)

Official college transcripts (for high school students dual enrolled in a college or university; additional requirements by country)

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

63962 USD / year

≈ 63962 USD / year
Out-of-State

63962 USD / year

≈ 63962 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18346 USD / year

≈ 18346 USD / year

Living costs

Ann Arbor

United States

1025 - 1870 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 and Contemplative 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

Ann Arbor

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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