Programs & Degrees

The Bachelor of Arts degree program with a major in music is a liberal arts program with a strong emphasis in music. Although It may fulfill the requirements for entrance into a Master of Music program, it does not provide preparation for teacher certification in music.

The Bachelor of Music degree program in composition is designed for students who are interested in obtaining a strong foundation in music composition and for students who are preparing for advanced study in music composition, music theory, or musicology. An admissions audition and a portfolio of compositions is required for consideration.

The Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies is a professional degree program. It includes the common core courses of all other Bachelor of Music degree programs and the shared objectives of musical literacy, development of aural skills, understanding of a broad repertoire, and attainment of analytical skills.

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education provides for the comprehensive training of music teachers. It allows students to develop a program of study tailored to their interests and needs as teachers. Students are encouraged to develop their musicianship through ensembles, private lessons, conducting classes, the creative musicianship component, and a wide variety of instrumental and voice classes.

The Bachelor of Music degree in music performance requires concentrated study in one of the following five performance areas: piano, stringed instruments, wind instruments, percussion instruments, or voice. An admissions audition is required for consideration.

The Minor in Music provides students an understanding of the fundamental concepts of music. This minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in non-music bachelor’s degree programs at Michigan State University. An admissions audition is required for consideration. Only current MSU students are eligible to audition, and can only do so for entrance in Spring semesters.

The Performance Diploma Program is an intensive four-semester (two-year) course of study for musicians who have already achieved a high level of performance and wish to focus on developing their performing skills through further study.