Music Conducting, Orchestral (Doctoral) at Michigan State University

Entry requirements

Graduate Application and College of Music Supplemental Application, both due December 1. Prescreening video of the applicant in rehearsals and performances (uploaded to the Digital Portfolio by December 1); invited applicants are contacted by the orchestral conducting faculty for an audition. Unofficial transcripts and diplomas for all post-secondary study (official copies required on admission); resume listing standard repertoire studied and/or conducted with name, date and location; personal statement of 300-500 words on background, goals and career plans; three letters of recommendation (submitted through the Graduate Application). International applicants whose native language is not English (College of Music minimums for collaborative piano, composition, conducting, jazz, performance and piano pedagogy): TOEFL iBT 80 (no subscore below 19, writing at least 22; for tests taken after January 21, 2026: 4.5 overall, none below 4, writing at least 4.5), IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0), PTE Academic 53, Duolingo 110 (temporarily accepted). Applicants to performance degrees, including conducting, with a degree from a U.S. accredited university may be exempt.