Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Science

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Required items:

• USC Undergraduate Application
• Thornton Supplementary Application
• Audition (required for BM program only)
• Writing Sample (transfers only - see below)
• Statement of Objectives
• Resume (see below)
• Repertoire List (required for BM program only)
• Letters of Recommendation (optional)

Audition Information (BM program only)

Applicants should prepare for a performance audition according to the requirements of the department of their primary instrument or voice. The audition may be performed for either the jazz studies faculty or the appropriate classical performance faculty. Jazz audition requirements are detailed on the "Jazz Studies" application requirements page and classical audition requirements are detailed on either the "Vocal Arts" page or the page for the specific instrument. Visit our Audition page for more specific information regarding audition dates and locations.

Writing Sample

All transfer applicants must submit a sample of academic writing to be considered along with the other academic information submitted. This should be a copy of a paper written for an academic course which the applicant has completed (e.g. an English paper, History paper, a paper for a Business Writing class, etc.). Papers should be clean copies, between 3 and 5 pages in length. Analytical and/or research papers are preferred over creative writing. It is also helpful to the review committee if the applicant includes a cover page, stating the class for which the paper was written, the purpose of the paper, and the specific prompt or assignment if available.

Resume

The resume should list musical, professional and academic experience, as well as specific details of any music industry-related experiences. Common examples of such experience include internships, recording projects, promotions or artistic management.

Letters of Recommendation (optional)

Applicants will note that letters of recommendation are required for the USC Application for Undergraduate Admission. If desired, applicants may submit additional letters from persons who might provide information specifically relevant to the applicant's interest and preparation for a major in music industry. These additional letters should be submitted directly to the Thornton Admission Office.

Important Policies

Applicants to either program in Music Industry may not apply more than two times. If a student has applied and been denied twice to a Music Industry program (regardless of degree objective), no further applications will be reviewed.

Any Music Industry courses taken without prior departmental approval may not be counted toward final degree requirements.