Students in the performance and pedagogy tracks of all graduate programs are required to complete four semesters of major ensemble participation. Students normally enroll in major ensemble participation during consecutive semesters beginning early in their degree work, to ensure completion of the major ensemble requirements in a timely manner. Ensemble assignments are made at the discretion of the major teacher and ensemble director.

The Doctor of Musical Arts is offered with two concentrations: conducting, and performance and pedagogy. Requirements for the D.M.A. are the same as for the Ph.D. (see?Ph.D. in Music?in the Catalog), except that the D.M.A. requires three recitals or programs (MUS:7900?D.M.A. Recital?and?MUS:7970?D.M.A. Essay) instead of the Ph.D. thesis. At the performance area's discretion, a concerto performance with orchestra or other appropriate ensemble from the School of Music may be substituted for one of the recitals. Some performance areas allow one or more lecture recitals, with faculty approval. Singers may substitute one major opera role or one major solo contribution to an orchestra performance for one of their recitals. See the school's associate director for graduate programs for specific area requirements.