Why Earn Your Certificate in American Contemporary Music?

The American Contemporary Music Post-Baccalaureate Certificate is a place for students to explore creativity and develop a singular musical voice through complete immersion in contemporary music practices in our state-of-the-art facilities.

Student performers are paired with faculty who are experts in the performance of contemporary music, and develop repertoire through weekly private lessons, informal and formal recitals and ensemble performances. Music technology students work closely with faculty in a variety of recording, video and sound design projects with high-end equipment and software.

At a Glance

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What Are My Career Options Studying American Contemporary Music?

This program is designed for three types of students: those looking to strengthen their skills before applying to graduate music programs; those who wish to focus their music study on contemporary music, and student ensembles seeking an intense program that not only hones musical skills but focuses on developing a complete entrepreneurial package to prepare for professional life.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC works to provide students with adequate need-based funding.

2025–2026 Graduate Cost Calculator Financial Aid Scholarships

Ready to Apply?

Review American Contemporary Music Certificate Requirements

TOEFL Scores UNDER 80 are accepted for foreign students also studying at the English Language Center; additional requirements for students’ portfolios, essay, and letters of recommendation are listed at

Start Your Graduate Admissions Application

Please note that application decisions can take 6-8 weeks after the program’s deadline, and depend on how many applications a department receives. You will receive an email once the department processes your decision letter. You will be able to see your decision letter by logging in to the application website. Your decision letter will be where the application checklist was. You may also check your recommendation statuses to send reminders or update contact information from the user page. If you are having trouble logging back in, you can recover your account.

Have Questions?

Please contact the appropriate Graduate School staff member for assistance, or contact our Main Office at gradschool@umbc.edu or 410-455-2537.

Application Deadlines

Fall Semester

All Students:
Apply by We accept applications on a rolling basis.

Spring Semester

All Students:
Apply by We accept applications on a rolling basis.

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Contact Information

American Contemporary Music Program Contacts

Main Contact

410-455-3190

Program Director

Lisa Cella
410-455-1405
cella@umbc.edu

Program Coordinator

Susan Velli
410-455-2990
velli@umbc.edu

UMBC Graduate School Admissions Office Contact Information

Mailing Address

UMBC Graduate School
1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250

Admissions Staff

Staff are available from Mon - Fri, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 410-455-2537

Request Help

Email Graduate Admissions at gradschool@umbc.edu.

Music Graduate Programs