Jazz Studies majors whose specialization is Instrumental Performance must qualify for Lab Band on one of the following instruments: Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, Bass, Guitar, Drum set, Percussion, or Vibraphone. Jazz Studies majors whose specialization is Vocal Performance must qualify as a vocalist in one of the vocal jazz ensembles. (See Vocal Jazz at North Texas).

Jazz Studies majors must also declare one of the instruments listed above as their area of applied concentration. In these private lesson for Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, and Bass, the primary focus begins with classical study. Two semester hours of applied credit per semester is awarded for successful study on the concentration instrument. One hour of credit for applied study identifies a secondary instrument. Generally, the Upper Division Exam (UDE) must be passed covering requirements through the second year of study. This exam may be attempted only after eight credits of study have been completed.