BMus Piano Performance at Rice University

Programme overview

BMus Piano Performance is a undergraduate degree programme at Rice University in Music (Shepherd School of Music). At the undergraduate level, the Shepherd School of Music offers both professional training and a broad liberal arts curriculum. Degree programs include a BA degree in music and a BMus degree in performance, composition, orchestral conducting, music history, and music theory. The degree totals 69 credit hours.

Faculty: Shepherd School of Music | Department: Music | Study mode: full-time | Location: Houston, TX, United States

What you will study

A minimum of 18 courses (69 credit hours) to satisfy major requirements. A minimum of 120 credit hours to satisfy degree requirements. A minimum of 13 courses (56 credit hours) taken at the 300-level or above. A minimum major GPA of 2.00 or higher in all coursework that satisfies requirements for the major.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An audition, in person, is required for Instrumental Performance, Vocal Performance, and Orchestral Conducting undergraduate applicants. A recorded audition may be considered in lieu of a live audition in extreme circumstances. Composition applicants must submit portfolios, and Music History applicants must provide samples of their written work. The Shepherd School faculty and the university’s Committee on Admission jointly determine admission, the latter basing its evaluation on successful academic achievement and other standards of college admission. Transfer applicants from other colleges, conservatories, and universities must audition, and take placement exams in both music history and music theory. Once admitted, their prior preparation in music is assessed, which may reduce the required period of study at Rice.

USD 71,140 a year (2026-27). Standard undergraduate tuition for students entering 2024 or later (students who entered before 2024 pay $65,280); one rate for all undergraduate majors and all students. Estimate; excludes student activity, recreation and health and wellness fees, room a Source

Entry term is Fall. Early Decision I and II and Regular Decision are offered.

Early Decision I closes November 1 with decisions by mid-December; Early Decision II and Regular Decision close January 4, Regular Decision decisions by April 1. The application fee is $75. SAT/ACT scores are optional (recommended, not required).

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