At the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, we give students the framework and foundation to succeed throughout their studies and careers, creating a path of lifelong learning. More than any other world-class conservatory, we focus on educating the whole person, with an interconnected curriculum that breaks down barriers between the intellectual, artistic, professional, and individual. Our faculty, facilities, and position at the heart of the San Francisco music scene have helped SFCM seize a leading role in preparing—and defining—the 21st-century musician.
Undergraduate |
BACHELOR OF MUSIC |
The Bachelor of Music degree program at SFCM is one of the most robust and rewarding tracks of musical study available in the United States. Our approach is unlike that of any other conservatory. By combining academic study, one-on-one instruction, and performance opportunities with a jump-start in real-world professional experience, this four-year program immerses you in what it means to be a successful musician—and person—in the 21st century. |
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM |
The Certificate program is a one- or two-year program focusing on private lessons, performance classes, and humanities courses at the undergraduate level.The Certificate is designed as an entry point for the Bachelor of Music degree program for students who have not met the minimum English proficiency score for the Bachelor of Music. The first year of the Certificate will be an immersion in English language learning in preparation for entering the Bachelor of Music program beginning the second year. With credits from the Certificate year transferring into the Bachelor of Music, the student will complete the degree within four years. Should a student choose not to transfer to the Bachelor of Music program, or they have not met the requirements for English proficiency, the second year of the Certificate program is meant as an intensive study of their instrument through ensemble playing and performance opportunities. |
Graduate |
MASTER OF MUSIC |
A degree track at the master’s level with a dynamic, two-year course of study that allows for professional development and artistic refinement.The Master of Music degree program readies you for life as a professional musician, teacher, entrepreneur, and critical thinker. During this two-year course of study, you’ll learn how your training broadens your options, and you’ll refine the skills you need to launch a successful career. You’ll hone your craft, explore the relationship between artistic freedom and a rewarding career path, and further develop the attributes that make you who you are as a musician and person. |
ADVANCED CERTIFICATE PROGRAM |
The Advanced Certificate program is a one- or two-year program focusing on private lessons, performance classes, and humanities courses at the graduate level.The Advanced Certificate is for students who have already earned a Bachelor’s degree. It is designed as an entry point for the Master of Music degree program for students who have not met the minimum English proficiency score for the Master of Music. The first year of the Advanced Certificate will be an immersion in English language learning in preparation for entering the Master of Music program beginning the second year. With credits from the Advanced Certificate year transferring into the Master of Music, the student will complete the degree within two years. Should a student choose not to transfer to the Master of Music program, or they have not met the requirements for English proficiency, the second year of the Advanced Certificate program is meant as an intensive study of their instrument through ensemble playing and performance opportunities. |
Post Graduate |
Artist Certificate in Chamber Music |
A program based on an apprenticeship model for students wishing to pursue dedicated study in chamber music. |
Professional Studies Diploma in Instrumental Performance |
A one-year program designed to provide focused studies for young artists in the pre-professional stages of their careers. |
Professional Studies Diploma in Technology and Applied Composition |
A one-year program geared toward preparing young artists with the skills necessary for a career in music and technology. |
Professional Studies Diploma in Historical Performance |
A one-year program that mixes performance with pedagogy, preparing students for a life in all aspects of early music. |
Postgraduate Diploma in Vocal Performance |
A one-year program that provides exceptionally talented students who have already completed a master’s degree the opportunity to continue their professional studies. |
Professional Studies Diploma in RJAM Performance |
A one-year program designed to provide focused studies for young jazz artists in the pre-professional stages of their careers as performers, band leaders, and composers. |