Instrumental Concentration, Graduate Professional Diploma

Graduate Professional Diploma

Students of exceptional ability who wish to concentrate on professional development with a minimum of academic requirements may apply for admission to the Graduate Professional Diploma (GPD) program. A baccalaureate or equivalent degree or certificate from a recognized institution is required for admission.

Normally, the GPD requires a residence of two years and a minimum of 24 earned credits. Full-time course load: 6 to 9 credits per semester. The Graduate Professional Diploma must be completed within three years from the date of matriculation.

Concentration in an Instrument (24–36 credits)

• Major instrument 4 credit(s) (four semesters-16 credits)
  
• Electives (with approval of advisor) 0–12 credit(s)
• REC 563, 564 (two recitals) 4 credit(s)
• Performing organization (each semester) 0 credit(s)
• Chamber music 4 credit(s)

(Note: Piano majors: Twenty-eight hours of accompanying or comparable assignment with an instrumental performing organization.)

GPD Recital Requirements

Instrumentalists: Two public recitals

Placement Examinations

After acceptance into the Graduate Professional Diploma program, students are required to take an Ear Training Placement Exam. In addition, applicants for the GPD in composition and orchestral conducting are required to take an examination in score reading, keyboard proficiency, and keyboard harmony. Based on the results of the exams, students may be required to take appropriate classes during the first year of graduate study. Students with severe deficiencies may be asked to complete appropriate undergraduate courses.

Academic Electives

A G.P.D. student electing to take courses in music history or music theory must take the graduate placement examinations in history or theory and fulfill the Graduate Music History (or Theory) Review Requirement. HLM 615  is a prerequisite for all graduate courses in music history.