Bachelor of Music – Jazz Studies

As one of the first free-standing jazz studies departments in the nation, the University of Southern California (USC) Thornton School was a pioneer in developing an academic curriculum dedicated to the one true American musical art form. With a world-renowned faculty, the Jazz Studies department prepares young musicians for success in today’s ever-changing music industry. Alumni and recent graduates have assumed prominent roles in both jazz and popular music across the globe. The USC Thornton Jazz Studies department consistently ranks as one of the world's top jazz programs in jazz periodicals.

The BM in Jazz Studies is a four-year, 132-unit program consisting of courses in the major, including individual instruction, theory, history, ensembles, and related topics, coupled with the University’s general education and writing programs. The program culminates with a senior recital.

Founded in 1884 and today the oldest continually operating cultural institution in Los Angeles, the Thornton School consistently ranks among the top one percent of the nation’s music schools and conservatories. Graduates of the school attain positions with major orchestras, ensembles, recording studios, and music industry firms and perform on stages and studios worldwide.

Blending the rigors of traditional conservatory-style education with the benefits of studying at a leading research university, the Thornton School offers students a thorough music education in a real-world context. Located at the center of Los Angeles, the school is the collegiate partner of choice for the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, the GRAMMY Foundation, and The Recording Academy, to name a few.