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FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF MUSIC

BY THE NUMBERS

CORE VALUE OF COMMUNITY

OUR HISTORY

As one of Florida State’s four original academic programs, the College of Music has a rich, distinguished, and storied history that spans more than 125 years

Our college has a longstanding legacy of faculty excellence, including multiple Grammy Award winners, Fulbright and Guggenheim fellows, and the first woman to earn the Pulitzer Prize in Music

PERFORMANCE SPACES

100% Job

Placement in Music

Education and Music Therapy PLACEMENT

MARCHING CHIEFS

Our world-renowned Marching Chiefs comprises 425 students from programs all over campus who serve as student ambassadors for the University

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Located in the beautiful capital city of Tallahassee, Florida State University is consistently ranked among the top 25 public universities in the nation according to US News & World Report. We have a 96% freshman retention rate and the best graduation rate among Florida’s public colleges and universities.

Tallahassee is known for its natural beauty, and our campus is no exception – it is the perfect place to live, study, and make music.

Tallahassee has a vibrant arts community and abundant musical offerings, with something new to discover around every corner.

The College of Music is home to more than 1,000 students from around the world, spanning dozens of different degree programs. Our students enjoy the best of both worlds: small class sizes and individualized instruction within the College of Music, as well as all the resources and interdisciplinary collaboration of a top-ranked research university.

DISCOVER

As one of the nation’s most comprehensive collegiate music programs, we offer a variety of degree options to fit your personal interests and career goals. One of our greatest strengths is helping students find a successful bridge to their career in music.

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

Bachelor of Arts

• Commercial Music

• Community Music

• Jazz

• Music

• Music Business

• Sacred Music

Bachelor of Music Education

• Choral

• General Music

• Instrumental

PURSUING TWO PASSIONS

Students may pair their studies in music with another field to earn a double major or dual degree. In fact, nearly 25% of our students pursue this option, allowing them to customize their experience and develop expertise in multiple fields. Students may also double-major within music or add a specialized studies program. Specializations include Jazz, Music Entrepreneurship, Performance, Piano Pedagogy, and Sacred Music.

NEW MAJOR SPOTLIGHT: MUSIC BUSINESS

The Music Business major is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the music industry, blending core aspects of an education in music along with business acumen. This program gives students the necessary skills to be the future leaders of the music industry, working in areas such as artist management, publishing, booking, marketing, distribution, and entertainment law.

NEW MAJOR SPOTLIGHT: COMMUNITY MUSIC

Community Music is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves access to meaningful musical experiences and that music has the power to strengthen relationships and transform lives. This flexible, interdisciplinary degree recognizes that music exists across many different communities, traditions, and styles. The program welcomes high-caliber musicians with interests in western art music, songwriting, hip hop, folk and traditional music, arts leadership, and other musical pathways.

EXCELLENCE STARTS EARLY

MUSIC UNDERGRADUATE SUMMER EXPERIENCE (MUSE)

Launched in Summer 2026, MUSE is an exciting six-week program designed for newly admitted first-year music majors. Through engaging classes, ensemble experiences, and personalized support, you’ll begin building your skills, earning college credit, and connecting with your music community. Classes run from late June through the end of July. Students may participate virtually through a modified program, but those who attend on campus may qualify for additional summer scholarship support. Applicants interested in the MUSE program should select Summer Term when applying to FSU.

As a MUSE participant, you can:

• Earn credit toward your music degree

• Perform in music ensembles and participate in masterclasses with FSU faculty

• Receive guidance through peer advising and mentorship

• Build confidence and make a smooth transition to college life

• Get a head start on your academic and musical goals

• Set yourself up for success!

KAREN MCLAUGHLIN LARGE

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF FLUTE AND MUSE PROGRAM DIRECTOR

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS & GLOBAL EXCHANGE

WHERE MUSIC TAKES YOU FURTHER

The College of Music opens doors to the world. Our students grow as artists and global citizens through immersive study, performance, and cultural exchange.

Semester Study Abroad

Conservatorio di Musica G. Puccini della Spezia — Italian Riviera

Students have the opportunity to spend a semester studying performance, pedagogy, musicology, composition, or theory at one of Italy’s most vibrant conservatories.

Expanding Global Opportunities

We are actively developing new partnerships across Europe, Asia, and other global regions, creating additional pathways for student mobility, creative collaboration, and international engagement.

FSU International Programs

Students can also study abroad through FSU International Programs, with spring break and summer opportunities in: • London • Florence • Valencia • Panama • Additional destinations worldwide

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Whether you are looking to advance in your current career path or make a career change, our graduate programs provide the opportunity to advance your musical studies. Take your education to the next level in one of dozens of programs available.

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Master of Music

• Collaborative Piano

• Composition

• Conducting

• Musicology

• Music Theory

• Music Therapy

• Opera Production (Coaching or Directing)

• Performance (Classical or Jazz)

• Piano Pedagogy

Master of Arts

• Arts Administration

• Commercial Music

• Music

• Piano Technology

Master of Music Education

• Full-time

• Summers Only

Doctor of Music

• Collaborative Piano

• Composition

• Performance (Classical)

Doctor of Philosophy

• Conducting

• Musicology

• Music Teacher Education

• Music Theory

• Music Therapy

• Piano Pedagogy

MASTER OF MUSIC EDUCATION SUMMER PROGRAM

Designed especially for certified K-12 music teachers, this unique, in-person program is completed over three summers (late June to early August). Students earn the Master of Music Education degree without leaving the classroom or sacrificing their income. The program culminates in a study-abroad experience at the FSU Study Center in London, England in the third year.

MUSIC THERAPY EQUIVALENCY PROGRAM

The Music Therapy Equivalency program provides an opportunity for students with a prior music degree to enter the dynamic field of music therapy. Students complete the undergraduate courses required for professional practice in the field, followed by a sixmonth clinical internship. At completion of the internship, students sit for the National Certification test to become Board Certified Music Therapists. After returning from internship, they complete the remaining graduate coursework for the master’s degree in Music Therapy. In total, this program takes approximately three years to complete.

FACULTY MENTORSHIP

Our 95+ full-time faculty are leaders in their fields and include Grammy Award winners, Fulbright and Guggenheim scholars, and Professor emerita Ellen Taafe Zwilich, the first woman to earn the Pulitzer Prize in Music. From international stages to groundbreaking music therapy research, our faculty bring a wide range of expertise to their teaching and are dedicated to mentoring students and preparing them for success beyond graduation.

We invite you to contact the faculty in your area of study and get to know them. You may request a trial lesson or observe a class on your next visit to campus (pending availability). Virtual meetings may also be available if you are unable to travel to campus.

EXCELLENCE MUSICIANSHIP

The College of Music presents more than 500 concerts and recitals annually in our six performance venues. Students frequently have the opportunity to perform offcampus as well — locally, nationally, and internationally.

Ensembles and Productions

• Bands (5)

• Orchestras (3)

• Choirs (8)

• Jazz Big Bands (3)

• Jazz Combos

• Marching Chiefs / Seminole Sound

• New Music

• Early Music

• World Music

• Opera Productions (3)

• Music Theatre Productions (3)

• Chamber Music

Additional Performance Opportunities

• Domestic and international concert tours

• Chamber music competition

• Two concerto competitions

• Music Theatre New York Senior Showcase

• Biennial Festival of New Music

• Frequent guest artist masterclasses

WORLD - CLASS FACILITIES

PERFORMANCE VENUES

Two large concert halls, 3 intimate recital halls, and an outdoor amphitheater

PRACTICE SPACES

80 individual practice rooms and 3 small ensemble rooms for student use

INSTRUMENT LIBRARY

600 instruments available for short or long-term loans

RECORDING STUDIO

An immersive environment for recording, mixing, and producing music using industry-standard equipment and software

MUSIC INNOVATION

Coming Soon)

Cutting-edge space for hands-on exploration, empowering students to create, collaborate, and lead in the music industry

WARREN D. ALLEN MUSIC LIBRARY

Extensive collection includes 80,000 music scores and print and digital holdings

A STUDENTCENTERED EXPERIENCE

The Office of Student Success provides support to all College of Music students, using a holistic approach to meet students where they are and helping them achieve success during their time at FSU. Our success team consistently provides workshops and events to support students in the following areas:

Student Support

• Individual coaching

• Success strategies workshops

• Enrollment assistance

Connecting Students to Campus Resources

• University Health Services

• Counseling Services

• College Life Coaching

Musician’s Health and Wellness

• Body mapping/Alexander Technique

• Performance anxiety

• Wellness events

MUSIC LIVING-LEARNING COMMUNITY AT CAWTHON HALL

The Music LLC is a unique residential option for music majors and minors where students live and study together in Cawthon Hall. Housed just steps away from the College of Music, the 200+ residents enjoy exclusive access to in-house classes, practice facilities, and a computer/keyboard lab. Students meet renowned musicians and guest artists to learn more about the field of music through the Colloquium Series and have the chance to study abroad in London over spring break.

MUSIC THEORY & COMPOSITION

MUSIC INDUSTRY & TECHNOLOGY

MUSIC RETAIL

MUSIC ADMINISTRATION

MUSIC EDUCATION

MUSIC PERFORMANCE

MUSIC THERAPY

MUSIC BUSINESS I& LAW

MUSIC HISTORY, JOURNALISM, & WRITING

PERFORMING ARTS HEALTH

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

The College of Music supports each individual student as they navigate their own career path. From the time they enter the College, students have the opportunity to work with our dedicated Career Advisor to identify long-term goals, explore career development opportunities, and prepare to bridge the gap from student to professional.

INDIVIDUAL ADVISING OPPORTUNITIES

• One-on-one advising sessions tailored to your academic and career goals

• Guidance for navigating creative, professional, and personal development

• Coaching on identifying internships, job searches, and preparing professional materials

• Interview and Audition Strategies

• Networking and Branding

• Designing Your Career and Exploring Opportunities WORKSHOPS SPECIAL EVENTS

• Headshot Day

• Panel Discussions

• Blackout at the Clothing Closet

Julie Detweiler received the doctorate in clarinet performance from Florida State University. She has taught music at the collegiate level, built her own private teaching studio, and performed with orchestras around the country. As the FSU College of Music Career Liaison, Dr. Detweiler offers career services in navigating the musical world, whether through resume reviews, mock auditions and interviews, internship and job searches, or workshops that offer real-world musical advice with high-level musical artists. It is never too early to make an appointment with Dr. Detweiler to discuss your future!

Julie Detweiler, DM Career Liaison

APPLYING FOR ADMISSION UNDERGRADUATE

1 APPLY TO FSU (Common App or FSU Application)

• Self-report transcript

• Self-report SAT/ACT/CLT scores (FSU is not test-optional)

• Upload essay and resume

2 COMPLETE THE MUSIC SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATION

• Select your audition/interview date

• Request your letter of recommendation

• Upload program-specific requirements

3 COMPLETE THE AUDITION/ INTERVIEW

• Community Music and Music Business require interview only

• Commercial Music, Composition, and Music Therapy require an audition and an interview

• All other majors and music minor require an audition only

† Prescreen for Piano Performance and Music Theatre only AUG 1 Application Opens NOV 8 Early Action* Auditions JAN/ FEB Auditions DEC 17 Early Action* Decision Release DEC 1 Freshman RD & Prescreen† Deadline OCT 15 Early Action* Deadline FEB 1 Final Application Deadline MAR RD Decision Release APR 1 Scholarship Notification Undergraduate Applicants

* Early Action for FL Resident Freshman applicants only. Music applicants are not eligible for ED round.

FUNDING AND COSTS UNDERGRADUATE

FSU has consistently been ranked as the #1 Best Value Public University in the State of Florida and remains one of the most affordable top-tier music institutions in the country. Financial aid at FSU comes in a variety of forms, both merit-based and need-based. For best consideration, students should apply for admission early and complete their FAFSA in October.

• ADMISSION SCHOLARSHIPS: All first-year students are considered for merit scholarships based on their academic profile .

• MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS: All music majors (first-year and transfers) are considered for scholarships based on their audition and/or interview.

• OUT-OF-STATE TUITION AWARDS: Non-Florida residents admitted to audition-based programs are considered for additional funding to help offset the out-of-state fees. Students with exceptional academic profiles may qualify for 100% out-of-state fee coverage, and those with a grandparent residing in Florida may apply for the Grandparent Waiver , which fully covers all out-of-state fees.

• NEED-BASED FUNDING: Support is based on FAFSA submission and may come in the form of grants, loans, or work-study assistance.

Based upon enrollment of 15 credit hours per semester at the 2026-27 tuition rate

APPLYING FOR ADMISSION GRADUATE

APPLY TO FSU

• Upload CV and personal statement

• Upload transcripts (official or unofficial)

• International students submit English scores and transcript evaluation

• Upload prescreening materials * and select your audition date (performance only)

• Request 3 letters of recommendation

• Upload program-specific requirements

• Prescreening results released December 15

• Auditions for performance degrees only

• Interviews by invitation only

FUNDING AND COSTS

GRADUATE

The primary form of graduate financial aid comes in the form of graduate assistantships, which provide a work assignment (such as teaching) in exchange for tuition coverage. If an applicant is interested in need-based funding, such as loans or work-study programs, they should complete the FAFSA form as early as possible.

• Graduate Assistantships: Awards include full tuition coverage and generous annual stipends.

• Talent Scholarships: Competitive, non-duty awards starting at $1,000 per year.

• Graduate School Fellowships: Students from any program across campus may apply for these awards through a separate application, due December 1. (See gradschool.fsu.edu/funding-awards)

• Academic Common Market: Residents of southern states may qualify for in-state tuition based on program and state of residence. (See sreb.org/academic-common-market)

Based upon enrollment of 9 credit hours per semester at the 2026-27 tuition rate

SEE FOR YOURSELF

The best way to get to know us is to make a visit to campus. We host visitors almost every weekday of the year, and we can help you connect with faculty, observe classes, and request a trial lesson.

Can’t make it to campus? We offer weekly information sessions over Zoom to answer all of your questions about our programs and the admission process.