Student demonstrate understanding of course material and program requirements recitals, recital program notes, jury papers. Sacred music students may include sacred choral, hymns, and instrumental music in these programs. Their graduate papers may deal with topics such as improvisation, Duquesne sacred music collections, and other topics specific to sacred music. Electives may include courses in improvisation, Gregorian Chant, hymnody, practicum, and choral or instrumental conducting.

International students are required to have a four-year bachelor's degree. Certain three-year degrees may be acceptable. International students are required to submit the following information: official TOEFL or IELTS scores. The minimum score for TOEFL is 90. The minimum score for IELTS is 7.