01
Performance & research
Eastman School of Music
One of the most prestigious conservatories in the U.S., with a strong emphasis on both performance and scholarly research.
Reference
Doctoral Programs in Jazz
A directory of North American universities offering doctoral degrees — DMA and PhD — in jazz studies and jazz performance.
13
Programs
12
U.S. States
2
Countries
The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Jazz is the highest performance degree in the field, offered by only a small number of universities in North America. It combines advanced performance, pedagogy, and scholarly research, and is typically pursued by musicians who already hold a master’s degree and want to teach at the college level while deepening their artistry.
This directory gathers those programs in one place — with locations, degree types, a short note on what distinguishes each, and links to official program and faculty pages.
Northeast
02
In NYC
Manhattan School of Music
In the heart of the New York jazz scene, with access to world-class venues and musicians.
03
Oldest U.S. conservatory
New England Conservatory
America’s oldest independent conservatory, with a legendary jazz department and an innovative curriculum.
04
PhD / research track
New York University
A research-focused PhD option with strong interdisciplinary connections across NYU.
Midwest
05
Big Ten research university
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
A major research university with excellent facilities and an affordable Midwest cost of living.
06
Strong funding
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Strong funding packages and teaching assistantships available to doctoral students.
South & Texas
07
Top-ranked
University of Miami, Frost School
Consistently ranked among the top jazz programs, with state-of-the-art facilities and a Latin-jazz focus.
08
Largest program
University of North Texas
The largest and one of the oldest jazz programs — home of the famous One O’Clock Lab Band and an extensive alumni network.
09
Austin music scene
University of Texas at Austin
Located in the “Live Music Capital of the World,” with strong ties to Austin’s vibrant music scene.
West & Mountain
10
LA studio industry
USC Thornton School of Music
Access to LA’s studio and entertainment industry; Bob Mintzer leads the jazz program.
11
Small-group focus
University of Colorado Boulder
A beautiful campus setting with a strong chamber-jazz and small-group focus.
12
Pedagogy focus
University of Northern Colorado
A strong emphasis on jazz pedagogy and excellent preparation for teaching careers.
Canada
13
Canada’s top school
University of Toronto
Canada’s premier music school, with a strong international community and access to Toronto’s jazz scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many universities offer a DMA in Jazz?
There are approximately 13 universities in North America that offer Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degrees specifically in Jazz Studies or Jazz Performance.
What is the difference between a DMA and a PhD in Jazz?
A DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts) is a performance-focused terminal degree that emphasizes artistic development and teaching, while a PhD in Music typically focuses on research, musicology, or music theory.
How long does it take to complete a Jazz DMA?
Most Jazz DMA programs take 3–5 years to complete beyond a master’s degree. This includes coursework, comprehensive exams, recitals, and a dissertation.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply for a Jazz DMA?
Yes, most Jazz DMA programs require a master’s degree (MM, MA, or equivalent) in music for admission.