A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is required. Applicants with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 may be considered, however, for these applicants the GRE General Test is required.
A bachelor's degree in music (or the equivalent) is required. Applicants must have their official transcript(s) sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions.
Applicants in choral conducting, instrumental conducting, instrumental performance, and vocal performance must arrange an audition with the appropriate faculty member.
Applicants in the areas of composition and music education must arrange an interview with the appropriate faculty member.
Three current letters of recommendation must be sent directly to the Music Graduate Coordinator (pdf format preferred). At least two letters must be from former music teachers, professors, or other musicians with firsthand knowledge of the applicant's musical and academic abilities or experiences.
Applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose that addresses the reasons(s) for pursuing graduate study at Fresno State, along with a detailed explanation of the applicant's personal and professional goals.
A writing sample (equivalent to an undergraduate term paper) must be submitted to the Music Graduate Coordinator as part of the application.
Music Education Option applicants must hold a valid California Credential to teach music or complete the California Basic Skills Test (CBEST) and subject matter proficiency, as defined by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CSET or approved subject matter program).
Foreign students must have achieved a minimum TOEFL score of 600 to gain entrance to the program.
With permission of the studio teacher, students with TOEFL scores between 550 and 600 may be considered for admission.