If you live in Arizona or plan to relocate there soon, you have several reputable options to pursue a music degree. But how do you know which are best? We’ve taken the guesswork out of finding the best music schools by doing the research for you and compiling a list.
6 Best Music Schools In Arizona For 2024
Below, you will find an in-depth review of the top music schools in Arizona. We reviewed the reputation, professors and staff, degree programs, admission criteria, class sizes, tuition and fees, facilities, career planning services and job placement rates to rank our top picks.
1. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is home to the top-rated Fred Fox School of Music. It’s also designated as an All-Steinway School. Faculty members are recognized globally musicians and authors that are committed to helping you hone your craft through individualized instruction and mentoring.
Students also have access to an electro-acoustic music studio, fine arts library, recording studio and concert halls.
Another perk is the UA Fred Fox School of Music Scholarship program. It offers monetary awards to students who demonstrate a high level of skill with an instrument or their voice, and exceptional academic performance.
School of Music at The University of Arizona
- 43,161 Student Population
- N/A Tuition
- 60% Graduation Rate
- 20:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Degree Programs:
Undergraduate degree programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in creative studies
- Bachelor of Arts in integrated studies
- Bachelor of Arts in ethnomusicology and theory
- Bachelor of Music in music education
- Bachelor of Music in performance
Graduate degree programs:
- Master of Music in composition, conducting (choral or instrumental), ethnomusicology, music education, music theory, musicology or performance (instrumental, keyboard, piano accompanying, piano and dance accompanying or vocal)
Doctorate degree programs:
- Doctor of Musical Arts in composition, conducting or performance (instrumental, keyboard or vocal)
- Doctor of Philosophy in music education, music theory or musicology
Admission Criteria:
Prospective students should meet the following criteria to be considered for admission:
- ACT and SAT scores are optional (but should be submitted to be considered for merit scholarships)
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Submit a Fred Fox School of Music Application
- Complete an audition
Job Placement:
Music majors can seek help from the Student Engagement and Career Development Center. They offer free career planning, resume-building, mock interviews and job search assistance.
2. Arizona State University
The ASU School of Music is a division of the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. It features distinguished instructors who pride themselves on helping develop the next wave of transformational creative leaders.
If you choose Arizona State University to further your education, you will have the opportunity to utilize state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces and labs to sharpen your skills. There are also 2 readily accessible music libraries if you want to level up your knowledge.
Degree Programs:
Undergraduate degree programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in music, music and culture or popular music
- Bachelor of Music in music learning and teaching
Graduate degree programs:
- Master of Arts in music with a concentration in ethnomusicology, musicology
- Master of Music in composition with a concentration in interdisciplinary digital media
- Master of Music in music composition
- Master of Music in music learning and teaching
- Master of Music in music therapy
- Master of Music in music performance
- Master of Music in music theatre/opera performance
- Master of Music in performance (conducting)
- Master of Music in performance pedagogy
- Master of Music in collaborative piano
Doctoral degree programs
- Doctor of Musical Arts in music with a concentration in conducting, interdisciplinary digital media, music composition or music performance
- Doctor of Philosophy in Music with a concentration in music learning and teaching
- Doctor of Philosophy in Music with a concentration in musicology
Admission Criteria:
Incoming freshmen should meet the following admission criteria:
- ACT score of 22 or higher
- SAT score of 1120 or higher; (1180 or higher for nonresidents)
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Complete the School of Music Application
- Complete an audition and interview
Job Placement:
The Career and Professional Development Services Center at Arizona State University offers the Handshake tool. It’s an online resource to help you find internship and job opportunities and stay in the know about job fairs, career workshops and other networking events.
3. Northern Arizona University
Consider North Arizona University’s School of Music to continue your education. Their degree programs cater to aspiring musicians, performers, music teachers and scholars. Courses are led by award-winning musicians that can provide valuable insight into the music industry and share what it takes to be successful.
Northern Arizona University
- 30,361 Student Population
- $11,896 Tuition
- 53% Graduation Rate
- 18:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Degree Programs:
Undergraduate degree programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in music
- Bachelor of Music in education: choral or instrumental
- Bachelor of Music in performance: voice or instrumental
Graduate degree programs:
- Master of Music in choral conducting, composition, instrumental conducting, instrumental performance, musicology/ethnomusicology, music theory, piano accompanying and chamber music, Suzuki Pedagogy (violin) or vocal performance
Admission Criteria:
If you’re an incoming freshman, Northern Arizona University requires you to meet these criteria to be eligible for admission:
- ACT English score of 21 or higher; Math score of 24 or higher
- SAT Critical Reading score of 580 or higher, Math score of 570 or higher
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Complete the School of Music Application
- Complete an audition
- Take the music theory placement examination
Job Placement:
Students are allowed to participate in ensembles to gain real-world experience. You can also consult with career counselors that provide resume editing services, career readiness workshops and interview preparation assistance free of charge.
4. Scottsdale Community College
The Music Department at Scottsdale Community College offers associates’ degrees to prepare students for rewarding careers in the music industry. Students receive individualized instruction and have the opportunity to perform with their peers in choral or instrumental ensembles.
Scottsdale Community College
- 9,551 Student Population
- $2,046 Tuition
- 24% Graduation Rate
- 18:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Degree Programs:
Scottsdale Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in audio production technologies and music business.
Admission Criteria:
Admission to Scottsdale University is open to anyone who is at least 18 years of age and has a high school diploma or GED.
Job Placement:
Students pursuing an associates’s degree in audio production technologies and music business can visit the Career Services center at Scottsdale Community College. The dedicated staff assists students with devising a career plan, developing a professional resume and cover letter and preparing for interviews.
5. Phoenix College
Phoenix College is ideal for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue a Bachelor of Music or fine/performing arts degree. It’s also a good fit for aspiring music teachers, music directors and composers.
Phoenix College
- 11,508 Student Population
- $2,046 Tuition
- 15% Graduation Rate
- 18:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Degree Programs:
Phoenix College offers an Associate in Arts in fine arts with an emphasis in music.
Admission Criteria:
Individuals who are at least 18 years old and have a GED or high school certificate qualify for admission. Transfer students from other colleges or universities that are in good standing are also welcome.
Job Placement:
Connect with a counselor from the Career Services center to access career exploration tools or get help with building your resume, searching for jobs and preparing for interviews.
6. Mesa Community College
The Visual and Performing Arts program at Mesa Community College offers associate’s degrees that are suitable for aspiring music professionals. You can acquire the skills and knowledge needed to land a recording, production, music composition, live performance, or teaching role.
Mesa Community College
- 20,508 Student Population
- $2,046 Tuition
- 15% Graduation Rate
- 21:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Degree Programs:
You can earn an Associate in Arts, Fine Arts with an emphasis in musical theatre. Mesa College also offers Associate in Applied degrees in:
- Audio Production Technologies
- Disc Jockey Techniques
- Music Industries: Music Business
AdmissionCriteria:
Mesa Community College has an open admissions policy. This means you can attend if you are 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED.
Job Placement:
Music students use the online Career Coach tool to submit questions to be answered by a staff member of the Career Department. They can also help you prepare a cover letter and resume that shines, prepare for interviews, and find internship and job opportunities.
What To Look For When Choosing a Music School
When evaluating music schools, here are some factors to consider.
Required Skill Level
Most 4-year institutions require applicants to complete a formal audition and interview to be considered for admission into the music school. You should demonstrate a high level of skill to stand out amongst the competition.
Worried your skills aren’t up to par? Consider an associate’s degree in music from a community college. There are minimal barriers to entry, and you can transfer any credits you earn to a major college or university to earn your bachelor’s degree.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attendance for music schools depends on the institution. Expect to spend more at a 4-year college or university than a community college.
Scholarship Opportunities
Seeking ways to minimize your out of pocket costs for music school? Narrow down your options to schools, like the University of Arizona, that offer scholarship opportunities to music majors.
Curriculum
Does the music school offer the degree program and concentration you’re most interested in? If so, is the curriculum relevant to your career goals? These are essential questions to ponder as you evaluate music schools and their offerings to find the best fit.
Professors & Staff
Are the professors and staff highly experienced in the music field? Do they provide individualized instruction and mentor students? You want a music school that features reputable faculty that can help you excel in your studies and prepare you for the workforce.
Facilities
Music schools with accessible facilities, like practice rooms, computer labs, fine arts libraries and recording studios are also ideal.
Ready to Earn Your Degree?
Take the first step towards making your dream of becoming a music professional a reality. Consider these music schools to get started and select the college or university that best suits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
The admission process for the UA Fred Fox School of Music is highly competitive. By meeting or exceeding the minimum qualification criteria, you will improve your odds of being admitted.
You can land a rewarding job with an associate’s degree in music from a community college. The volume of opportunities depends on the type of role you’re seeking, industry you want to work in and location.
Most community colleges allow aspiring music professionals to work towards a degree, regardless of skill level. So, it may be a better fit.