The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music awards the bachelor of fine arts degree to students who successfully complete 128 credits of study, which must include
- A minimum of 84 credits in jazz courses (Studio courses, internships, or approved independent studies may be applied toward the 84-credit minimum.)
- Completing the requirements in theory, ear training, theory and performance, piano, rhythmic analysis, sight-reading, arranging, and instrumental proficiency (These requirements may be met through coursework or by demonstrating proficiency in placement exams.)
- A minimum of 18 credits of liberal arts courses taken through The New School’s Undergraduate Liberal Studies curriculum
- 16 credits of music history courses
- Passing the sophomore jury
- Performing a senior recital