Admission to the Mary Pappert School of Music requires a Duquesne University application
and successful completion of a formal music audition. Audition Process & Guidelines.
If you're looking for somewhere to start, begin with our Music Admissions team. You
can ask us anything! Submit your request below, and we will connect you to the people
and experiences that fit your interests.
Attend a concert or sit in on a rehearsal! Students can choose from orchestras, wind
ensembles, choirs and jazz ensembles as well as premier chamber groups like the Studio
Recording Ensemble, Opera Workshop, The Dukes Music, and more.
All dates for the current admission cycle are listed below. You can choose between
online or in-person format for select dates. When you're ready, register to audition
on your applicant portal.
December 5, 2025 (online or in-person)
January 16, 2026 (campus only)
January 30, 2026 (online only)
February 13, 2026 (campus only)
February 27, 2026 (campus only)
Post-season audition appointments beyond 2/27/26 are available, but not guaranteed.
Learn more by contacting the office of music admissions musicadmissionsFREEDUQUESNE.
Your audition day experience will include multiple components based on your degree,
instrument, and level of study. We will provide a detailed and personalized audition
schedule to help you navigate the day.
Audition Portfolio
In addition to a live audition (online or in-person), all prospective music
majors submit an audition portfolio. Learn more about the guidelines for your degree
program and instrument.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to work with our distinguished piano faculty. The workshop offers a variety of expert instruction including 1-on-1 private piano lessons, peer observation in group class environment, sight-reading sessions, and master classes, as well as an opportunity to experi
We are proud to offer exceptional award packages that can cover up to 100% of tuition!
All accepted music students are automatically considered for scholarships and financial
assistance from the Mary Pappert School of Music.
Academic and Talent-based Awards for Undergrads
The Mary Pappert School of Music offers competitive scholarship packages that recognize
the academic merit and artistry of each applicant.
As an enrolled student, you can apply and compete for additional funding to support
your education. Check out some of our recent endowed scholarship recipients.
Duquesne's ensembles will provide you with the finest university-level performing
experiences available, preparing you for your career as a professional musician. As
a member, you will perform on campus, as well as at some of the best venues for music
in the city. Our students have performed at Heinz Hall, Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland,
Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, the August Wilson Center, the Andrew Carnegie
Free Library and Music Hall, and many more.
In today's competitive commercial and studio music environment, versatility is of
the utmost importance. Our unique jazz curriculum integrates foundational training
in the classical tradition with private instruction and coursework in jazz idioms.
Select degree programs can be accelerated and completed in 3 years. View all programs. Graduation timelines vary by student and depend on several factors including transfer
credits and summer courses. Connect%20with%20our%20Music%20Admissions%20team to see if an accelerated pathway is right for you.
Minors & Micro-Credentials
Connect your musical interests across disciplines for a more integrated college experience.
Music Minor
The Mary Pappert School of Music offers a Minor in Music to any Duquesne student,
regardless of major. Enjoy playing in ensembles, taking lessons, and digging into
the foundations of music. The program consists of 15 credits, 7 of which are prescribed
coursework and the remaining 8 are music electives.
The Music and Health undergraduate minor is designed for undergraduate students currently
enrolled in an undergraduate health care program at Duquesne University. This 15-credit
program will prepare you to understand music as a cultural practice of health.
Music & Health in Integrative Care Micro-Credential
The Music and Health in Integrative Care micro-credential is designed for graduate
students currently enrolled in a healthcare program at Duquesne University. This 9-credit
online program runs asynchronously to accommodate the schedule of the full-time student
and working professional.
Try talking to one of our Music Ambassadors or taking a Trial Lesson with one of our faculty members. It's really important to establish connections and
form relationships with potential teachers and future classmates. Our current students
and faculty are looking forward to meeting you and helping you take the next step
in your musical journey!
This place has magic in the air and electricity in every rehearsal. I love the
Mary Pappert School of Music, and have decided to continue my journey at the graduate
level working toward a Master's in Jazz Guitar Performance.
Alex WeibelBS Music Education 2022, current graduate student