General FAQs about the Graduate Music Program

Messiah University designed its Master of Music in conducting and Master of Music Education programs to fit the goals and needs of a variety of different students including:

• Those who have graduated from an accredited undergraduate institution with a degree in music;
• professional musicians (teachers, church musicians and performers), who wish to obtain a master's degree to further their studies, refine their teaching skills and enhance their effectiveness as musicians, teachers and conductors;
• Teachers who wish to acquire Act 48 credits without pursuing a graduate degree; Act 48 credit can be given for any University class whether or not it is part of a degree program.
• Those who already have a post-baccalaureate degree but want to acquire specific skills in certain areas of pedagogy without pursuing an additional graduate degree.

Once your file is complete, your application will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. The program director, Dr. Rachel Cornacchio, will contact you personally regarding your acceptance and/or any other issues surrounding the application process. The processing of applications typically requires between two-four weeks.

Please visit our tuition page for more details.

Yes; in addition to the deferred billing for employer reimbursement option, there are other financial aid options available. Visit our financial aid page for more details.

With a summer semester start, students will have the ability to complete the degree in three summers and two academic years. Other students may take longer depending on their individual situation. The University has developed the program with a maximum six-year completion timeframe. However, it is possible to file for an extension in light of extenuating circumstances.

In consultation with your academic advisor, you will develop a degree plan which will outline a sequence of study for your degree. Messiah's graduate program was designed specifically to help make it accessible to those who have full-time employment and family responsibilities. The degree plan you develop with your advisor will help you set goals for completion, but can be altered at any time to fit your changing needs.

All of our courses, whether online or in the classroom, are taught by experienced faculty from Messiah University's Department of Music. Visit our faculty profile page.