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A restructured DMA program at Yale School of Music

piano-keyboardWe are excited to announce the launch of a restructured Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) program at Yale School of Music.

Following an extensive period of deliberation by the faculty and Dean, the Yale Doctor of Musical Arts degree will accept applications from prospective students who have earned the Master of Music degree. Previously, the Master of Musical Arts degree was required.  December 1, 2013, is the application deadline for the DMA degree, and complete information is posted on the YSM website.

The DMA program provides intensive training in the student’s field supported by studies in theoretical and historical subjects.  The degree is intended for candidates who demonstrate exceptional competence as a performer or composer, a wide range of knowledge about many aspects of music making, and an intellectual curiosity about music and an ability to discuss in depth its history, theory, styles, sources, and relationship to other arts and to society.

 

Structure of the Program

The DMA will consist of a residential period of two years and a post-residential period of three years.  The post-residential period has been reduced from five years, another significant revision.  During the residential period, in addition to fulfilling all academic requirements, candidates will present recitals (and/or compositions) each year, submit a thesis and a lecture based on the thesis, and pass comprehensive written and oral examinations during the last term in residence.

In the post-residential period, candidates are expected to demonstrate distinguished achievement in their field as demonstrated by concert programs, compositions, reviews, recordings, publications, and other relevant materials.  Distinguished achievement is determined by the extent and quality of professional supportive accomplishments that reflect the launching of a professional career.

Candidates apply to return to Yale for their final DMA recital and oral exams by submitting a dossier of professional activities, accomplishments, credentials, and references.  Detailed information about the curriculum will be released later this semester.

 

Applying to the DMA

In addition to the online application and audition, DMA applicants must take an entrance exam and proficiency exams in keyboard, hearing, and language.  Application instructions can be found here: HOW TO APPLY

DMA supplementary application information can be found here: DMA APPLICATION INFO  

For the official program description and application requirements, please see the Yale School of Music Bulletin. BULLETIN