DMA Application Requirements

General Admission Requirements

Applicants for the DMA must have an earned master’s degree by August 2025 for Fall 2025 admission with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Students without a master’s degree may apply to the master’s program at Bowling Green State University. When the degree is completed, they may apply to the doctoral program. Students must also meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College and the College of Musical Arts.

Following the review of all application materials required by both the Graduate College and the College of Musical Arts, qualified applicants will be scheduled for auditions February 24 - February 26, 2025. 

Materials concerning details about the graduate program in music at Bowling Green State University may be received upon request.

BGSU Graduate College Application Requirements

Applicants seeking admission to the Doctor of Musical Arts degree program are asked to complete or send the following materials as required by the BGSU Graduate College. All application materials must be received by January 1, 2025 for Fall Semester 2025 admission.

1. BGSU Graduate College Application for Admissions
2. Official Transcript
   Scanned copies of official transcripts from all institutions attended. Upon admission, final official transcripts from each degree granting institution must be submitted.
   
3. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for International Student Applications. The BGSU Institution Code is 1069.
4. Application Fee
   A one-time, non-refundable application fee of $45 (domestic applicants) or $75 (international applicants).

For complete information on applying to the BGSU Graduate College go to BGSU Graduate Admissions.

DMA Application Requirements

The following materials can be uploaded online. You do not need all of your application materials uploaded to submit your application. Please make sure the application is completely filled out and submitted as soon as possible. You can then go back and upload all of your application materials. College of Musical Arts DMA Application Materials must be uploaded by January 1, 2025, for Fall Semester 2025 admission.

1. Artistic materials

   Composition Specialization

   Three scores of recent compositions, one of which is for large ensemble or resources, with performance uploaded online through your Graduate College application.

   Performance Specialization (conducting)

   A video recording representing music of the 20th/21st centuries and other periods such as Romantic or Classical. The tape must include portions of rehearsals and live performances. Including commissioned works or premieres is encouraged. A variety of ensembles is acceptable, but the tape must include some conducting work with the ensemble appropriate to the specific area of specialization, i.e., orchestra, wind ensemble/band, chorus. The video must be taped from the back of the ensemble, so that the conductor’s face is visible. Video's may be uploaded online through your Graduate College application.

   Performance Specialization (instrumental or vocal)

   A 45–60 minute video recording highlighting the candidate’s proficiency in contemporary music performance. Approximately 50–60 percent of the recording must be 20th/21st century literature with the remaining works from other historic periods; a concerto or concert aria with ensemble accompaniment may be included. Single movements are acceptable. Edited or commercial recordings are permitted (identify the recording process); include at least one live performance. Including commissioned works or premieres is encouraged. Video's may be uploaded online through your Graduate College application.

2. Curriculum vitae

   Include degrees earned, work experience, honors and awards, names of teachers and any other relevant information.

3. Repertoire list

   Composition Specialization

   A list of all works composed with instrumentation and date of composition.

   Performance Specialization (conducting)

   A list of works performed, rehearsed and studied.

   Performance Specialization (instrumental or vocal)

   A list of works performed, studied, commissioned and premiered.

4. Documentation of Composition or Performance Activity

   Submit a document, separate from the curriculum vitae, listing composition and/or performance activity within the past five years. Please give date and place of performance and provide a PDF of relevant programs, if available. Do not submit programs only.

5. Sample research paper

6. Letters of Recommendation

   You will provide names and contact information for three references in the Secondary Application. These individuals will be sent an email link to upload the recommendation letter online.

College of Musical Arts DMA Application Materials must be received by January 1, 2025 for Fall Semester 2025 admission.

Following review of all required application materials, qualified applicants will be invited to audition February 24 - February 26, 2025. Every effort will be made to notify applicants by February 1.