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Does the CMC offer degree programs?

You can focus your studies on subjects and skills taught and supported by the CMC through the programs below, but the CMC is not an independent degree granting institute. The CMC is a division of Columbia University’s Department of Music and a collaborative partner with the School of the Arts and the School of Engineering and Applied Science. To find out more about how to apply to Columbia’s music degree programs, please refer to these resources:

Undergraduate

BA in Music at Columbia College and the School of General Studies
BA in Music and Ethnomusicology at Barnard College
Minor in Music at Columbia College and the School of General Studies
SEAS Minor in Music
Barnard Computer Science - Computational Sound

Undergraduates must apply through an individual school, Columbia College, General Studies or SEAS.

Graduate

PhD in Ethnomusicology, Historical Musicology, and Music Theory
DMA in Composition
Sound Arts MFA

Prospective PhD/DMA candidates apply through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
Prospective MFA candidates apply through The School of the Arts.

Do I need to be a music major to take courses at the CMC?

No. Any student, staff or faculty member at Columbia University is welcome to register for our classes, as space allows. You also do not need to have any previous formal musical training. Please see our courses page for more information. Music Majors at CC, GS, and Barnard as well Music Minors at CC, GS, and SEAS get priority placement on the waiting list.

Do I have to be a graduate student to take courses at the CMC?

No. CMC courses are open to students of all levels at the University. However, some classes have prerequisites and may have many of their slots reserved for graduate students. See our courses page for details.