In addition to many on-campus performance opportunities, the Greater Miami metropolitan area offers all jazz majors a unique international, multiethnic environment in which to work and study. Students have many opportunities to gain professional experience by performing in a wide variety of venues. Jazz Pedagogy combines jazz performance writing and analytical study with special emphasis on educational methods and materials for jazz instruction. The program culminates with a comprehensive examination or thesis. Studio Jazz Writing is a unique advanced writing program designed to prepare composers and arrangers for work in a variety of fields.
Students study instrumental, vocal, and electronic writing techniques.
Composition and arranging projects are rehearsed, recorded, and critiqued. Models for study include master composers, arrangers, and producers from throughout the history of jazz, rock, pop, and classical music. A final written project concludes the degree program. These programs require a minimum of 60 credits beyond the master's degree, including studies in performance, jazz composition and arranging, and general core courses in music history, music theory, and music education. A doctoral essay culminates each program.