Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Music is a liberal arts degree providing music majors with a comprehensive education that will holistically increase their knowledge and development as a person, musician, life-long learner, and citizen of the world. Individuals accepted as music majors will choose from five concentrations: Composition, Music with a minor, Jazz Performance, Performance, and Teacher Certification.

Composition

The composition concentration is for musicians interested in developing their skills in music writing and arranging and may lead to careers composing for TV and film or performance ensembles. Students pursuing this concentration must choose an applied instrument in addition to their private composition study. The presentation of two recitals of original compositions is required, one during the junior and one during the senior years.

Music with a Minor

The music with a minor concentration is for musicians open to a myriad of career options, some of which may not be in the music field. This degree will allow students to receive a complete music education while also growing in other areas of interest, such as history or business. Students may elect any available minor within the university and should contact the individual department to obtain the exact requirements for their minor.

Jazz Performance

The jazz performance concentration is for musicians who have a talent and interest in the genre of jazz. Students interested in this concentration must first be granted permission from the faculty through audition at the completion of two semesters of applied music, Additionally, this concentration requires two recitals: a junior recital that includes a minimum of 15 minutes classical repertoire, and a senior recital of jazz repertoire.

Performance 

The performance concentration is for musicians with the skill and talent to pursue a performance degree, graduate studies, or private instruction after completion. Students interested in this concentration must first be granted permission from the faculty in their applied area (voice, piano or instrumental) through audition at the completion of two semesters of applied music. This concentration places an emphasis on performance, high technical skill, and advanced repertoire throughout the curriculum. The presentation of two recitals is required, one during the junior and one during the senior years.

Teacher Certification

The teacher certification concentration is for musicians interested in public or private school teaching. Students interested in this concentration are expected to demonstrate high academic performance, which includes maintaining a 3.0 overall GPA. In addition, admission into the College of Education is necessary to complete the last 24 credit hours of the program which includes a semester of clinical practice (student teaching) in an elementary and secondary setting.

Degree plans for all concentrations are located in the academic catalog.