The University of North Texas' Jazz Studies

🎓 What: Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies

📍 Where: University of North Texas

The University of North Texas’ Jazz Studies program is the first degree program of its kind in the U.S. (Photo source: UNT)

Ever dreamed of jamming with the best or leading your own jazz ensemble? The Jazz Studies program at the University of North Texas (UNT) is a pioneer in jazz education—in fact, it was the first degree program of its kind in the U.S.!  Whether you’re aspiring to perform, compose, or teach, UNT’s Jazz Studies program offers world-class training with legendary faculty and state-of-the-art facilities.

🎶 Why Study Jazz at UNT?

UNT’s Jazz Studies program is one of the most respected in the nation,  boasting an impressive lineup of eight jazz lab bands, including the Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Lab Band.  You’ll get plenty of opportunities with:

• Four Jazz Singers groups – Perfect for those who want to harmonize and improvise vocally.

• The L-5 and Super 400 Electric Guitar Ensembles – Because who doesn’t love a good guitar solo?

• The Latin Jazz Ensemble – Bringing that spicy, rhythmic flair to jazz classics.

• The Zebras Contemporary Music Ensemble – Where jazz meets modern musical exploration.

🎤 Jazz Legends and World-Class Faculty

At UNT, you won’t just learn about jazz—you’ll learn from jazz legends. The annual Jazz Lecture Series features industry giants like Dave Brubeck, Ingrid Jensen, Tierney Sutton, and Chris Potter. And the faculty? They’re not just teachers—they’re Grammy-nominated performers, international touring artists, and respected authors in the jazz world.

🎼 Why UNT?

• World-Class Facilities: Perform at the Murchison Performing Arts Center, home to the Winspear Performance Hall and Lyric Theater.

• Jazz History and Resources: The Maynard Ferguson Music Library, Stan Kenton Collection, and Gene Puerling Collection offer unmatched historical insights.

• Living-Learning Community: Live among fellow jazz enthusiasts, sharing academic and social experiences.

• Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring the highest educational standards.

💼 Career Prospects: Where Can This Degree Take You?

A degree in Jazz Studies from UNT doesn’t just prepare you for gigs. It sets you up for diverse careers, including:

• Professional Performer – Whether it’s jazz clubs, concert halls, or Broadway stages.

• Composer & Arranger – Crafting music for films, shows, or your own album.

• Music Educator – Teaching the next generation of jazz greats.

• Producer – Shaping the sound of tomorrow’s music in recording studios.

• Entrepreneur – Many alumni have gone on to form their own bands, labels, and music companies.

💸 Estimated Tuition for International Students: $43,966 per year. 

🎤 Final Encore:

Jazz isn’t just music—it’s an art, a culture, a way of life. At the University of North Texas, you’re not just learning jazz; you’re living it. With a legacy of excellence, legendary faculty, and endless performance opportunities, this is the place to turn your passion for jazz into a thriving career.