Overview

The Music (New England Conservatory) programme at Harvard University offers a prestigious dual-enrolment pathway for students seeking to balance elite musical training with a world-class liberal arts education. This integrated course of study allows talented musicians to develop their artistic craft at a professional conservatory level while engaging in the diverse academic environment of a leading research institution.

Why Music (New England Conservatory) at Harvard University?

This partnership provides a unique bridge between two world-renowned institutions located in the vibrant cultural hub of Cambridge and Boston. Students benefit from the extensive academic resources, research facilities, and diverse concentration options at the university, alongside the specialised studio instruction and performance opportunities at the New England Conservatory. This dual approach ensures that graduates are not only technically proficient performers or composers but also well-rounded scholars prepared for complex professional landscapes.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 59320 per year
National fee: USD 59320 per year
Local fee: USD 59320 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured over five years, with the initial period focused on undergraduate requirements and conservatory studio work, leading to advanced master's level study. Modules may include:

Studio Instruction
Music Theory
Musicology
Composition
Ensemble Performance
Liberal Arts Electives

Careers with Music (New England Conservatory)

Graduates of this dual programme are uniquely positioned for diverse careers within the global arts and culture sectors. Many alumni pursue professional paths as orchestral musicians, solo performers, or acclaimed composers. The combination of a liberal arts degree and a Master of Music also prepares students for roles in arts administration, music education, academic research, and cultural consultancy. The rigorous training ensures that graduates possess the creative and analytical skills required by leading musical organisations and creative industries worldwide.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory & Basic Notation

Soundtrack Industry Overview

Music Production

History of the Recording Industry

Composition for the Artist

Film Music Appreciation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology Music Composition View 311 other Bachelors in Music Composition 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

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

The program is open to high school students who apply to both institutions through the normal admissions process. You must apply to both Harvard and NEC, indicating on both applications your interest in the Harvard-NEC dual degree option. If you are admitted to both institutions, you will then receive an additional decision for admission to the dual degree program.

Interview

Common Application or Coalition Application

Harvard College Questions for the Common Application or Coalition Application Harvard supplement

$75 fee (or request a fee waiver)

SAT or ACT (with or without writing) - optional for 2022-2026 application cycles

Optional: AP or other examination results

School Report (which includes a counselor letter) and high school transcript

Teacher Report (2)

Midyear School Report (after your first semester grades)

Final School Report (for admitted students only)

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

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year
Out-of-State

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 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 (New England Conservatory).

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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