COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Music is a liberal arts-based music degree designed to provide students with both advanced musical training and a broad academic education. Certified by the National Association of Schools of Music, the program combines general education courses with specialized music studies to prepare students for careers in music, education, arts administration, performance, and graduate studies. Students complete coursework in music theory, ear training, music history, music literature, counterpoint, 20th and 21st century music, and advanced analysis while also participating in ensembles, recital classes, and individual performance training on a major instrument for six semesters. The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical musical development through orchestra, band, chorale, jazz ensemble participation, and upper-level applied lessons. Students also complete writing-intensive and capstone requirements through research projects or recital performances during their senior year. Along with music studies, students complete humanities, communication, social sciences, mathematics, science, and foreign language courses, creating a balanced liberal arts education. The program requires completion of a foreign language through at least the 202 level and allows students flexibility to pursue a minor, certificate, or electives based on personal interests and career goals. Graduates develop strong communication, analytical, creative, and performance skills that can lead to careers in music performance, teaching, composition, music research, arts management, music production, entertainment, and cultural organizations. The degree is especially suitable for students seeking a versatile education that combines artistic expression with academic breadth, helping them build adaptable professional skills for careers inside and outside the music industry while also preparing for advanced study in music and related disciplines.