DMA Conducting (Sacred Music) at University of Notre Dame

Programme overview

The doctor of musical arts (DMA) is administered by the interdisciplinary program Sacred Music at Notre Dame (SMND) and is distinguished by its artistic goals, interdisciplinary methodology and engagement with Christian musical traditions. Students undergo professional music training in either conducting or organ, together with academic formation through DMA research seminars that examine questions of music history and theory, with a particular emphasis on sacred music in its historical and liturgical context. The DMA is intended to train individuals who wish to work at the highest levels in colleges, universities and seminaries, as well as in cathedrals, churches and other artistic communities throughout the world. Last updated: 09/23/25 Minimum residency: 2 years minimum.

Faculty: The Graduate School | Department: Sacred Music | Study mode: full-time | Location: Notre Dame, IN, United States

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate School application materials: GRE General Test not accepted; TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native speakers of English; Curriculum vitae; Statement of intent; Three letters of recommendation; Writing sample(s) - refer to program site for details; A master's degree (or the equivalent) in this field; Portfolio - refer to program site for details; Audition materials - refer to program site for details; Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution required at the time of application. (Official transcript showing conferral of a bachelor's degree due upon enrollment.) Application deadline: Dec. 15.

USD 69,110 a year (2026-27). Graduate School full-time tuition for 2026-27, the rate the page lists for Graduate School programmes generally (not a programme-specific schedule). Excludes technology ($250), health centre access ($150) and student activity ($100) fees. Source

Notre Dame Law School admits new Juris Doctor students for the fall term only.

JSD applications are submitted through the LSAC online system and are due March 15; supporting documents are due April 1.

Apply through the official page: https://graduateschool.nd.edu/admissions/

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