The Academy of Art University’s School of Art History BA program is a unique major that addresses the traditional art historical study through the analysis of visual culture from antiquity to the present. Complemented with fine art studio coursework (12 units), the BA allows for students to engage in critical and research-based analysis of art and architecture, learning to study the visual culture through its role and influence on different cultures and periods. With internationally recognized faculty and access to a rich offering of coursework, the AAU’s Art History BA prepares students for a career in art-related fields: e.g. in art galleries, museums, foundations, archiving, publishing, and public arts administration.

The School of Communications & Media Technologies BA program provides a dynamic education of essential modern media skills including foundations in storytelling, broadcasting, journalism, and mobile platforms. Under the guidance of industry experts, students learn to shoot, edit, write, and host their own productions, and use the latest technologies to stream and broadcast them.

The School of Jewelry & Metal Arts BFA program exposes students to an array of metal design principles and techniques. The curriculum covers sketching, color theory, soldering, stone-setting, welding, casting, mixed-media, enameling, digital techniques, and more.

Made up of principal brass chairs of the San Francisco Symphony, as well as principal players of the San Francisco Opera and Ballet orchestras and a close-knit student body, SFCM’s Brass Department challenges and inspires the next generation of great players. Small studios with all-star faculty guarantee individualized instruction. Hone your craft with unparalleled mentorship and prepare for a rewarding career.

SFCM’s classes in music history and literature provide a vital learning experience for all aspiring musicians. SFCM faculty deliver engaging sessions, helping students think critically about the meaning of the music they play by examining the musical values of other times, places, and cultures.

Spearheaded by an all-star faculty with top-level expertise ranging from early music to cutting-edge modern work, SFCM’s guitar program honors the historic tradition of classical guitar while cultivating innovation. Study with guitar titans and get to learn on vintage classical and flamenco guitars donated to SFCM by L. John Harris.

Historical Performance at SFCM offers bachelor's and master's music degrees in harpsichord and a one-year professional studies certificate in historical performance in the following areas: voice, baroque violin, viola, cello, historical keyboards, and historical plucked strings.

It takes more than talent to build a career. Success in any field requires skills and experiences beyond what you learn in the practice room. We place a strong emphasis on professional development in our core curriculum to ready students for their careers. Courses in marketing, finance, teaching, and technology, as well as internships with local, professional arts organizations will help you build the confidence you need to take risks and craft the career of your dreams.

The composition department both honors tradition and encourages innovation. Our four versatile faculty members closely mentor students while maintaining high-profile composing careers. We strongly emphasize interdepartmental collaboration, matching composers with performers, as well as offer frequent concerts and readings of student works. Every year, SFCM hosts the Highsmith Competition, an internal composition contest that grants the winner a performance of the submitted work by the Conservatory Orchestra.

Music theory and musicianship classes at SFCM prepare you for a life as both a performer and a thinker. Whether it’s Baroque counterpoint or 20th-century harmony, it’s must-know material for aspiring classical musicians. Theory courses are complemented by more practical instruction in sight-reading and ear-training.

SFCM offers a well-rounded menu of general education classes in history, literature, philosophy, creative writing, oral communication, acoustics, and mathematics for undergraduates. These courses complement musical training and enrich the understanding of different fields of study.

The exclusive nature of SFCM’s conducting program guarantees students the guidance and opportunities required to become a successful and well-rounded conductor. Private instruction, rehearsals, and performance, in conjunction with the Conservatory Orchestra and other Conservatory ensembles, constitute the core of the program. SFCM conducting students also have access to plentiful work experience opportunities around the Bay Area creating a holistic and unique educational experience for aspiring conductors.

Any music school can make you a better player. Our interconnected courses are built to transform you intellectually, artistically, professionally, and individually. You'll understand the roots of your music, freeing you to take it somewhere new. You'll see how your training broadens your options, rather than narrowing them. You'll find your voice. And you'll enter the world with the same confidence you bring to the stage.