Performance Diploma (Strings)

The Performance Diploma Program

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This four-semester program, offered only in certain performance departments, is designed for the very small number of gifted performers who have not yet completed the BMus or its equivalent and who are seeking a very narrowly focused program of study leading to a performance-oriented career. Performance Diploma students may apply to transfer to the Bachelor of Music program before the end of the first year of the program. Students seeking admission to the BMus degree must demonstrate skills necessary to complete both the performance and academic coursework required for the BMus.  

Students who have completed requirements for both the BMus degree and the Performance Diploma will receive only the BMus degree.

Eligibility

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The Performance Diploma is offered only in certain departments. Students who seek admission to the Performance Diploma program in the Division of Vocal Studies must have completed two years of voice and language study at the college level or equivalent.

General

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All credit applied toward requirements for the Performance Diploma must be earned in Oberlin or in Oberlin-sponsored programs, including Oberlin summer programs. Students in the Performance Diploma program may not pursue another degree or non-degree music program concurrently. No credit with a grade of B– or lower may be counted toward the requirements of the Performance Diploma. Students who enroll in and/or complete the Performance Diploma may transfer to the Bachelor of Music degree with special permission. In order to transfer to the BMus degree program, students must demonstrate ability to complete the academic coursework required for the BMus degree. A minimum TOEFL score of 550 for non-native English-speaking students will be required for enrollment in the BMus degree.

Performance Diploma student may enroll in Applied Studies courses or English Skills courses as free electives without special permission. Performance Diploma students may not register for courses in addition to those without permission (given in the Associate Dean’s office). A minimum TOEFL score of 550 for non-native English-speaking students may be required for enrollment in additional courses.