How to Apply/Tuition and Fees

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Application Process for Domestic Students

There are 2 steps to the application process:

  1. Complete the 3-page application to the UMBC Graduate School

Visit the Graduate School website for instructions on submitting either an online application or a paper application.

As part of this application you will;

  • Submit payment for online application.
  • Send official transcript certifying completion of bachelor’s degree and minimum 3.00 GPA to UMBC
  1. Send supporting materials listed below by mail or email to:

Dr. Lisa Cella – cella@umbc.edu
Certificate Program Director
Dept. of Music PAHB 238
UMBC
1000 Hilltop Circle,
Baltimore, MD 21250, U.S.A.

  1. Resume including education, jobs, recent performances/projects, awards and honors. Kindly include your permanent family address, your current address, email and cell phone.  PDF and WORD documents accepted.
  2. Two reference letters:One from your instrumental, composition or technology instructor and a second one from an instructor at your most recently attended college/university. Letters can be mailed or emailed directly to Lisa Cella (cella@umbc.edu).
  3. 250-word essaystating your goals and reasons for participation in this program. Include the university or college graduate programs you desire to apply to if you are looking to move into another degree.  PDF or WORD documents accepted.
  4. Performance/Composition/Technology Portfolios(see below for your particular area of concentration). Enclose a short description of the recorded material submitted that includes titles of pieces recorded, composers and/or other performers.

Performance Portfolio – audio or video links to 3 pieces from 3 contrasting eras. Please do not attach video or audio files to the email.  Send links only.

Composition Portfolio – Scores (PDF) and links to recordings for 3 works

Music Technology Emphasis – CD/DVD (via mail) or links (via email) to at least 6 tracks demonstrating your proficiency with various musical styles. If available, you may also submit other examples of your work produced with software such as Max/MSP, Live or Final Cut Pro. Any other pertinent music technology experiences (DVD authoring, sound for video, programming etc.) should be clearly described and included with the portfolio.

Application Process for International Students currently enrolled in a degree seeking program.

This information changes quickly – please reach out to Lisa Cella (cella@umbc.edu) to discuss eligibility and specific application process.

International students with TOEFL scores under 500 may study at the UMBC English Language Center (ELC). They offer a variety of courses in English language skills and the TOEFL test.

In order to apply to the Certificate Program and study at the ELC, students must:

  1. Apply to the Certificate Program in Contemporary American Music

Visit the Graduate School website for instructions on submitting either an online application or a paper application.

As part of this application you will:

  1. Submit payment of either $50 for online application or $70 for paper application.
  2. Send sealed official transcript certifying completion of bachelor’s degree and minimum 3.00 GPA to UMBC

Note: The requirement for a TOEFL score of 550 is waived for Certificate Program applicants if you apply to the English Language Center.

  1. Apply to the English Language Center if needed

Download the paper application form. Deadline listed is July 15. However, we encourage students to apply by May 16 in order to successfully receive the I-20 visa.

  1. Send supporting materials listed below by mail or email to:

Dr. Lisa Cella – cella@umbc.edu
Certificate Program Director
Dept. of Music PAHB 238
UMBC
1000 Hilltop Circle,
Baltimore, MD 21250, U.S.A.

  1. Resume including education, jobs, recent performances/projects, awards and honors. Kindly include your permanent family address, your current address, email and cell phone.  PDF and WORD documents accepted.
  2. Two reference letters: One from your instrumental, composition or technology instructor and a second one from an instructor at your most recently attended college/university. Letters can be mailed or emailed directly to Lisa Cella (cella@umbc.edu).
  3. 250-word essaystating your goals and reasons for participation in this program. Include the university or college graduate programs you desire to apply to if you are looking to move into another degree.  PDF or WORD documents accepted.
  4. Performance/Composition/Technology Portfolios(see below for your particular area of concentration). Enclose a short description of the recorded material submitted that includes titles of pieces recorded, composers and/or other performers.

Performance Portfolio – audio or video links to 3 pieces from 3 contrasting eras. Please do not attach video or audio files to the email.  Send links only.

Composition Portfolio – Scores (PDF) and links to recordings for 3 works

Music Technology Emphasis – CD/DVD (via mail) or links (via email) to at least 6 tracks demonstrating your proficiency with various musical styles. If available, you may also submit other examples of your work produced with software such as Max/MSP, Live or Final Cut Pro. Any other pertinent music technology experiences (DVD authoring, sound for video, programming etc.) should be clearly described and included with the portfolio.

Tuition and Fees