Majors, Minors & Programs
The Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in music is a program designed for qualified
students who wish to complete a concentrated study of music within a liberal arts
curriculum. In addition, students who pursue a bachelor’s degree in music will receive
an appropriate background for graduate study not only in music but in related fields
in the arts and humanities.
Music Performance
The performance degree includes two tracks that offer opportunities for specialization in classical or jazz performance. Students receive special instruction in pedagogy and give both a junior and senior recital.
Music Performance Program of Study
Jazz Performance Program of Study
Church Music
This degree prepares students to work in churches and requires courses in arranging, conducting, and hymnology.
The bachelor’s degree in Music Education reaches beyond the core skills and understandings
of the music major to address the full scope of competencies required by the Illinois
Content Area Standards in Music. Students who successfully complete the music education
curriculum will be eligible to receive the Initial Special K-12 Certificate in Music,
qualifying them to teach both instrumental and vocal music in elementary and secondary
schools. Please refer to the School of Education section of this catalog for the Teacher
Education Conceptual Framework and the specific requirements for admission to the
Teacher Education Program. The Bachelor of Music Education degree course of study
is a five-year program.
Music Education Program of Study
This Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Business is designed to prepare students for
a variety of career opportunities in the music industry. Students must complete the
core requirements of the music major, a core of business courses recommended by the
business faculty and courses which blend the two fields, including an internship.
Music Business Program of Study
There are two music minor tracks. One is designed for the traditional music minor
and the other is designed specifically for Elementary Education majors. (Elementary
Education majors may choose either music minor track.)
Dance courses are available to all students and are particularly useful to students
majoring in theater or music. Students may choose to complete a minor in Dance.
Master of Arts in Music Education
The graduate program in Music Education is designed for teachers who want to continue
developing their professional commitment and competence. Graduate students in the
program examine current educational theory and practice and explore a variety of viewpoints
to reflectively develop their professional competence and teaching style. They explore
social issues affecting students and expand their awareness of and respect for the
unique development of each student. During their course work, they consider effective
collaboration with and accountability to students, parents, colleagues, and the community.
Reexamining the development of values and professional ethics, students gain greater
intellectual and ethical insight. The Music Education Program develops advanced proficiency
in the Illinois Teacher Standards.
Master of Arts in Music Education Program of Study
