Undergraduate Admissions

The Department of Music offers two bachelor's degree programs for undergraduate students. The Bachelor of Music degree in Music Performance (MusB) provides a comprehensive program of study in performance, including courses in music theory and music history, participation in ensembles, and a culminating solo recital. The Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) is a more flexible degree program that prepares students for further study in music and music-related careers.

The Department also offers three minors: a General Music Minor, a Performance Minor, and a Jazz Performance Minor. All three allow students to combine their major with music instruction that can support a variety of career paths and expand any student's relationship with music.

Students applying for a music degree are asked to complete a short Departmental application, and those planning to join the MusB in Performance, the BA in Music, or either of the Performance Minors will need to audition as well. More information is below.

How to Apply

Incoming Students: Apply to the University at Buffalo

Incoming freshman or undergraduate transfer applicants who are interested in pursuing music should both apply to the University at Buffalo and to the Department of Music.

When applying to the University, you should indicate your intended major/minor on the application form. All relevant information, including admissions criteria, the online application, dates and deadlines, and standardized test score requirements, can be found by visiting UB Undergraduate Admissions.

New students are encouraged to audition as soon as possible. Information about auditions can be found here, and scheduled when completing the Department of Music's application.

Current Students: Request to Change your Major or Minor

Current students interested in adding a music major or minor should complete the Department of Music's application form and the CAS Major/Minor Change form, linked below.

Students wishing to add either major or performance minors will be asked to schedule an audition when completing the application form. We always encourage students to audition as soon as possible.  

Submit the CAS Major/Minor Change Request form to request one of the following changes to your academic plan:

  • Add a major, minor, or certificate in the College of Arts and Sciences
  • Drop any major
  • Drop any minor

Questions?

Please contact Mary McCarthy, administrative assistant, or Brian Moseley, the Director of Undergraduate Studies, if you have any questions.