The BA in Music degree program is the Department's most flexible degree, ideal for students interested in pursuing a dual major, a minor or certificate elsewhere in the university, or for students who plan to pursue music in the Graduate School of Education.
Students in the BA are immersed in the same comprehensive curriculum in music theory and history that characterizes the department's performance major, but are given flexibility that allows them to pursue their own specializations. In particular, BA students have the opportunity to craft their elective requirements such that they can pursue a mix of courses, lessons, or ensembles that focus on a particular area, such as performance, composition, electronic music, or music history and theory. The structure of the program is outlined below, with foundational courses in years one and two, followed by elective courses in the creative, scholarly, and performance areas in the final two years. As a capstone requirement, students complete a one-semester music internship during their final year in the program. These internships are individualized to prepare students for a potential path they may wish to pursue after graduation.
The following is the approved normal course of study for students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree. In all cases a student's particular program should be determined in consultation with his or her academic advisor. There are 52-58 total required credit hours in music for this degree. Students must earn a C or higher in all music courses.
All undergraduate music majors are required to attend six concerts every semester.
Students enrolled in the Music Internship tutorial will gain practical, real-world experience working for a music professional, or a cultural or educational organization in Western New York. They will have the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom, explore career interests and build professional networks. The internship may include on or off campus work, teaching, administering, organizing or performing and will be overseen by a full-time faculty member in the Department of Music. Note: Students planning to register for an internship should first consult with the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
An up-to-date, four-year plan for the BA in music can be found in the course catalog. A downloadable, PDF reference is available here as well.
Applicants for the BA in Music should submit an application and audition. Auditions are held in the fall and spring semester.
Get in touch with Professor Brian Moseley, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Director of Undergraduate Studies; Associate Professor (Music Theory); Area Coordinator; Music Theory
Department of Music