Applying for the Artist Certificate Program

Prerequisites

In order to apply for the Artist Certificate program, applicants have:

• Bachelor’s degree or international equivalent required; master’s degree preferred (exceptions are made at the discretion of the dean or associate dean)
• Conversational English proficiency with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 50, with minimum subscores of 15 in Speaking and 15 in Listening.

Program Standards

Participants in the Artist Certificate program are held accountable to high standards of professionalism and artistry as a collegial member of the community of musicians at APU. This includes, but is not limited to, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic, making every effort to communicate clearly with performing colleagues and faculty, prompt and regular attendance at rehearsals and Reflection Seminars, and a professional approach to the responsibilities of playing a leading role in the School of Music.

Because of the nature of music making, these standards may be higher than those described in the university’s Graduate Catalog, which every Artist Certificate participant agrees to abide by when they enter the program. Participants who do not fulfill these Artist Certificate requirements satisfactorily according to the faculty responsible for any given area may be put on probation in the program. In extreme circumstances, participants may be dismissed summarily from the program without warning.

Application Requirements

• Azusa Pacific University Application
• $45 nonrefundable application fee
• Official transcripts for bachelor’s degree: Students must have at least 15 units of transferable college credit to qualify for the program. If a student does not have 15 units of transferable credit, they need to contact the admissions representative for further instructions.
• One recommendation from an instructor in your instrument area
• Résumé (must include professional experience and répertoire list)
• Personal statement: one-page essay that addresses your career goals, why you are interested in APU and what you think you will contribute to the APU community
• Slideroom audition submission

Application Deadlines

• Fall Semester: April 1
• Spring Semester: September 15

Auditions

Learn more about audition requirements.

International Students

International students are held accountable to the standards set by the APU International Center and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. All international students are required to:

• Attend Global Student Orientation hosted by APU’s International Students and Scholars (ISS)
• Attend the Artist Certificate Orientation and Registration described in the acceptance letter
• Purchase and maintain health insurance throughout the school year
• Maintain full-time student status throughout the school year
• Maintain immigration status with ISS

International students who do not fulfill the standards mentioned above to satisfaction will be put on probation in the program. In extreme circumstances, participants will be considered “out of status” and may be dismissed summarily from the program without warning.