COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Music at Concordia University Chicago requires students to complete 50 credit hours within the major as part of a 120-credit-hour degree. Before beginning the major, students must audition on their primary instrument or voice and complete the music fundamentals test for placement into Music Theory I (MUS-2113) and Aural Skills I (MUS-2112), with prior keyboard experience recommended. The curriculum includes a comprehensive study of music theory, aural skills, and history and literature. Music Theory courses include Music Theory I and II, Counterpoint, Form and Analysis, and Orchestration and Arranging, while Aural Skills courses progress from I through IV. History and literature courses cover Music of World Cultures, History of Western Music to 1750, History of Western Music 1750-1900, and Twentieth-Century Music Literature and Techniques. Students must participate in seven semesters of a primary ensemble, such as Kapelle, Schola Cantorum, Wind Symphony, or Chamber Orchestra, and complete applied study in their primary instrument at the 3000 or 4000 level. Additional requirements include Music Convocation participation and a Senior Project, which may be a recital, research, or composition project. Electives include three hours of advanced-level MUS courses. Some courses may be waived depending on prior experience, and those pursuing a Parish Music certificate may apply three elective hours toward that certificate, ensuring a flexible, performance-oriented, and comprehensive music education.