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California State University, San Bernardino

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Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
Gateway Audition
No Interview
Virtual Only
Selective
University App Required

Program Highlights

SELECTIVE VOCAL PROGRAM

Rigorous academic and artistic standards for admission and continuation
Prepares students for careers as professional vocal performers
Majority of graduates pursue advanced music degrees or post-baccalaureate training

VOCAL TRAINING

Applied Voice and Repertoire coursework through three levels (6 semesters)
Lyric Diction I and II for language proficiency
Performance Literature and Applied Pedagogy courses
Opera Theatre participation (Opera Theatre I and II)
Foreign language study required (German, French, or Italian)

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Junior and Senior recital performances required
Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, or Women's Chorus ensemble participation each semester
Emphasis on auditions for professional engagements and competitions

FACILITIES

250-seat Recital Hall in Performing Arts Building
Brand-new 478-seat Performing Arts Center opened late 2025

Key Info

University App

Apply atcalstate.edu
Deadlines
PriorityDec 1, 2025
Regular DecisionMar 31, 2026
Fee
$70
Via Cal State Apply per campus

Program App

Deadlines
Spring Entrance — Music Department ApplicationOct 1, 2025
Fall Entrance — Music Department ApplicationJan 31, 2026

Audition Requirements

No audition required to apply. Students audition for the program after enrolling at the university.
Songs

TWO CONTRASTING WORKS

One piece in English
One piece in either German, Italian, or French
Pieces should demonstrate high potential for success as a professional performer
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Additional Materials

ESSAY (required)

400-750 words (approximately two pages)
Detail prior music experience and achievements
Demonstrate willingness to commit to rigor of a professional program
Describe future professional aspirations
Upload in DOC or PDF format to Google Drive or Dropbox

TRANSCRIPTS (required)

Unofficial transcripts from highest level of education
Upload in DOC or PDF format to Google Drive or Dropbox

THEORY PLACEMENT

Diagnostic test of music theory knowledge required

Good to Know

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Complete the BM Audition Form (Google Form linked on Music Applications & Auditions page)
Due on the Friday of the last week of classes
Submit personal essay, unofficial transcripts, and pass diagnostic theory test

PREREQUISITES

Minimum C- in Music Theory I, Musicianship I, Theory II, and Musicianship II
Two semesters of Lower-Division Voice applied lessons

TRANSFER STUDENTS

May audition before first semester by contacting the Voice area head
Must have completed at least one year of music theory and musicianship courses with minimum C- grades

CONTINUATION REQUIREMENTS

Minimum 2.0 GPA in all CSUSB coursework and all music coursework
Maximum three semesters at each applied level — students unable to advance cannot continue in the BM

What's The Process

ADMISSION PATHWAY

Freshmen typically enter as Pre-BM or BA students and audition for BM after two semesters of CSUSB coursework
Transfer students may audition before their first semester by contacting the Voice area head
Students not accepted may apply one additional time

AUDITION FORMAT

Self-tape video submission
Perform two contrasting works as specified in song requirements
Audition reviewed by a committee of music faculty
Audition for the semester prior to intended BM entry (e.g., audition Spring 2025 for Fall 2025 entry)

CONTACT

Email: MusicAdmissions@csusb.edu
Department of Music, Performing Arts Room 111, (909) 537-5859

Scholarship Info

MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Joseph K. Thomas Scholarship — incoming freshmen/transfers, 3.25+ GPA, audition required
Arthur A. Moorefield Memorial Scholarship — continuing/transfer/incoming, 3.3+ GPA
Josephine Lombardo Scholarship — new or returning majors, 3.0+ GPA, preference for Coachella Valley residents
Music Performance Awards — new or returning majors, 2.75+ GPA (new) / 3.0+ (returning)

APPLICATION

Apply via CSUSB Scholarship Manager Portal (through MyCoyote)
Video audition with three contrasting works (upload to Google Drive)
Letter of recommendation and unofficial transcripts required
Biographical summary addressing goals and financial need
Program info updated Today

Academic School Information

3.36
Avg GPA (W)
94%
Admit Rate
55%
Grad Rate
15,023
Enrollment
$59,977
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$8,093
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$20,693
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$4,564
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$2,681
Family Income $30k - $48k$2,680
Family Income $48k - $75k$4,735
Family Income $75k - $110k$7,745
Family Income $110k+$14,316