This project report examines the importance of non-curricular elements in a successful collegiate jazz performance program. In order to understand what makes a program successful, this paper first reviews the history of three successful jazz programs—Indiana University (IU), University of North Texas (UNT), and California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)–and evaluates the components that led to their success. After a brief introduction of these three programs, the non-curricular elements that help to form each successful university jazz performance program are examined. Oftentimes, non-curricular elements are perceived as non-essential and therefore their benefits are not fully realized. Using IU, UNT, and CSULB as a benchmark, this project report examines their approaches to non-curricular ideas. This study will provide an understanding of how a prospective student might prepare for and benefit from these elements as part of a comprehensive collegiate jazz performance program.