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Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
Audition Required
No Interview
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required

Program Highlights

PROGRAM RECOGNITION

CSUN Music recognized as a top music school by Billboard Magazine and The Hollywood Reporter
Hollywood Reporter named CSUN one of the Top 20 Music Schools in the World (2024, 2025)

VOCAL TRAINING

Full range of opportunities in individual lessons, choral ensemble, opera, oratorio, and art song recital
Classes in French, German, English, and Italian diction
Coursework in pedagogy, song literature, performance techniques, and opera scenes
Operas fully staged and costumed, performed in original language with orchestra

CAREER OUTCOMES

Many students go on to national and international careers in opera, musical theatre, and college-level teaching
Distinguished roster of music alumni across nearly every area of the profession
Capstone experience: one-hour recital

Key Info

University App

Deadlines
PriorityJan 31, 2026
Regular DecisionMay 15, 2026
Fee
$70Waiver

Program App

Apply atAcceptd
Deadline
Music Application Deadline (Acceptd)Feb 7, 2026
Auditions
On-Campus Audition Day 1Feb 7, 2026
On-Campus Audition Day 2Feb 21, 2026
On-Campus Audition Day 3Feb 28, 2026

Audition Requirements

Songs

TWO SONGS OR ARIAS IN CONTRASTING CLASSICAL STYLES

One selection must be in a foreign language
Both selections must be memorized
Additional works may be prepared but select your very strongest repertoire for the audition
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A

Good to Know

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Apply to CSUN through CSU Apply by January 31
Step 2: Complete the Music Application via Acceptd with video upload (if electing video audition) by February 7
Must have CSUN ID number before starting the Music Application

SCHEDULING

In-person auditions: select preferred day/time through Acceptd
Video applicants may have a video interview scheduled if required

ELIGIBILITY

Auditions are competitive — strong background in academics and vocal/musicianship training expected
Music Performance majors receive lessons on one instrument
No music minor or double major in music available at CSUN

What's The Process

AUDITION FORMAT

In-person auditions held on three Saturday dates in February
Video auditions accepted for all non-Jazz programs
No prescreen required — only Jazz programs require a pre-screen video

ACCOMPANIMENT

Professional accompanist provided for all voice auditions
Bring copies of music for the accompanist (hard copies or tablet)

AUDITION RESULTS

Results sent at one time after the final audition day
Typically announced about 3 weeks after the last in-person audition day

CONTACT

Voice Program Director: Hugo Vera — Hugo.Vera@csun.edu

Scholarship Info

MUSIC DEPARTMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Newly accepted and returning students can apply each spring for the following academic year
Instructions sent through the Acceptd application after audition outcomes
Scholarships awarded in March/April for fall study
Additional financial aid available through the CSUN Financial Aid Office
Program info updated Today

Academic School Information

3.33
Avg GPA (W)
93%
Admit Rate
57%
Grad Rate
32,691
Enrollment
$59,115
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$7,458
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$20,058
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$7,021
after typical aid

Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.

Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$4,905
Family Income $30k - $48k$5,450
Family Income $48k - $75k$7,744
Family Income $75k - $110k$11,262
Family Income $110k+$18,040