Academics

Artist’s Diploma

Certificate

violinist playing

Montclair’s Artist’s Diploma Certificate is a two-year, post-baccalaureate program for musicians looking to advance their performance career. It develops the technique, artistry, and professionalism of gifted musicians.

Whether you’ve already begun performing or are preparing to launch your career, this 24-credit program helps you develop the technique and artistry needed to succeed in the contemporary music world. The candidate must already have completed a Bachelor’s degree in music.

During the program, you’ll take private lessons, work on solo and chamber music, and perform in full recitals. You’ll get regular feedback from faculty and coaches, helping you refine your skills and grow as a performer. The program also gives you the flexibility to explore areas like music theory, languages, and history, or focus on practical steps to prepare for life as a professional musician.

You’ll also gain important career skills, including preparing for auditions, building performance opportunities, and learning how to work effectively with other musicians. You’ll leave ready to present full recitals and pursue careers as a soloist, chamber musician, or collaborative artist.
If you are looking to build a career in professional performance, then this program is for you.
A student who successfully completes one year of this program and decides not to continue may be eligible to receive a Performer’s Certificate.

Apply NowRequest Info

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Music. Credits from previous study may not be substituted or transferred into the Artist’s Diploma program.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.

Application Checklist

Application Deadline: Rolling admission.

  1. Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  2. Transcript: One from each college attended.
  3. Essay/Statement of Purpose: Please write one integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions:
    • What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
    • In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
    • Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?

Auditions

Auditions for Graduate Music Applicants to this program are required. To register for an audition, you must first submit an application to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Once submitted, a link to the audition registration page will be available to you on the checklist in your application portal. Information regarding the audition/interview requirements, available dates, methods, fees and deadlines can all be found on The Cali School’s Audition Information Page. Please be sure to review the audition information thoroughly to ensure you are fully prepared at the time of your audition.

Related Programs

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Graduate Program Coordinator: David Witten

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

Apply NowRequest Information

Learn on Campus

Immersive classes, vibrant campus life and hands-on experiences that put you at the center of it all.

Explore Majors & Minors The Campus Experience

Learn Online

Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

Explore Majors & MinorsThe Online Experience