Music
Music
Bachelor of Arts
Music means different things to different people. If music means everything to you, this may be your program. Do you hear music in the patter of raindrops on the window, a dribbling basketball, children laughing? Whether you like making music or listening to it, you can customize your program and earn a degree that lets you pursue your passion as a career.
You can choose your specialization from among many areas: Music Performance, Music Composition, Music Technology, and more. Perhaps you want to increase your marketability by combining the B.A. Music degree with a degree in an outside field to complete a double major. The possibilities include Marketing, Communication Studies, Cinema, Television
KU’s combination of superb mentoring by renowned artists/teachers, small class sizes, diverse performance opportunities, and a well-rounded curriculum is ideally suited to guide you to professional success. Because life is full of song, and the world is ready for your verse.
Areas of specialization
Commercial Music
Students interested in the music industry may wish to pursue the emphasis in Commercial Music.
Performance
The emphasis in Music Performance is intended for individuals who aspire to careers performing, conducting, writing or teaching music outside of the public schools.
Business
The emphasis in Business provides practical learning opportunities in the fields of music, business, and the music entertainment industry. Note: Music Business does not require an entrance audition for acceptance into the program.
Sample Career Options
- Performer
- Composer
- Conductor
- Music publisher
- Entertainment management
- Music librarian
- Recording engineer
- Music retailer
- Music reviewer/writer
- Private music instructor
- School music teacher
- Professional musician
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Department of Music requires prospective students to complete the university application. Audition results determine placement in music courses and are considered as part of acceptance to the degree program.
At the audition, candidates will be asked to discuss their musical background, career goals, musical and general areas of interest. Preliminary diagnostic exams are taken in: (a) harmony and theory, (b) ear training, (c) sight singing, and (d) piano skills. Students may receive the university's academic admissions decision prior to the audition process. Acceptance decision to the music programs will follow shortly.
The Department of Music also offers several minors:
Degree Information
- Checksheets and Planners for Music Department programs
- Transfer Credit Information
- Professional licensures and certifications
Student Learning Outcomes
-
Music (BA)
- Perform with competence as soloist and ensemble members.
- Identify, define, and engage the elements of music in sound and notation.
- Describe current practices and historical trends in music.