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Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting

The Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting program at Boston University combines rigorous study of choral and orchestral conducting techniques and literature with related work in performance, music theory, and musicology in a vibrant and intimate setting, all within a major research university. DMA candidates will join a diverse community of scholar-performers led by a renowned faculty. In addition, the rich intellectual and artistic environment of Boston provides many further opportunities for amateur and professional collaborations.

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the program, students are expected to demonstrate:

Performance techniques and skills in the area of concentration.

Broad knowledge of repertory and literature from all periods, with knowledge in music from under-consulted and underrepresented cultures.

Acquisition of advanced knowledge and skills in musicianship, music theory and analysis, and music history.

Superior proficiency in verbal communication of musical ideas and concepts.

Capability for producing professional-level written documents such as program notes or scholarly essays.

Capacity for artistic growth and skills for navigating the professional world.

Degree Requirements

The Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting is granted upon successful completion of a program of study, written and oral qualifying examinations, and terminal projects appropriate to the student's field of specialization. Students must complete a minimum of 48 term units with grades no lower than B– in graduate-level coursework. All degree requirements must be completed within seven years of the date of matriculation.

Proficiency Examinations

All entering Doctor of Musical Arts students are required to take a proficiency examination in the area of music theory and musicology. These examinations are administered online before the start of classes. Incoming students are notified of the exam dates and contents in advance and are responsible for taking it by the specified deadline. Exam results are used for purposes of advisement and may establish prerequisite or required coursework. Material covered in these examinations is commonly presented in most undergraduate degree programs in music. No retakes of the exam will be permitted.

Students with insufficient background may be required to take review courses as appropriate.

Required Courses

Any deficiencies identified by the proficiency exams must be addressed as soon as possible, regardless of whether or not the student plans to take other courses in these areas. Students may not take advanced graduate courses in a particular area OR graduate until all deficiencies have been addressed. Prerequisite and other required courses may include:

CFA MH 401 Graduate Music History Review

CFA MT 401 Graduate Music Theory Review

CFA MT 601 Analytical Techniques 1

CFA MT 602 Analytical Techniques 2

Language Requirement

Reading proficiency is required in one language, chosen from German, French, and Italian. Students may demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language by passing its corresponding reading course at the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences: CAS LG 621, CAS LF 621, or CAS LI 621. Students may also satisfy the requirement by passing a foreign language examination, administered once each term by the School of Music.

Conducting Program Outlines

Choral Conducting (DMA)

CFA MP 531 Graduate Vocal Diction Review (1 unit-may test out)

1 unit

CFA MP 680 Score Reading

2 units

CFA MP 702 Choral Conducting Seminar, 2 units per term (2 terms, 4 units total)

10 units

CFA MP 703 Orchestral Conducting Seminar, 2 units per term (5 terms, 10 units total)