25 Best Bachelor’s in Music

Among the notable alumni from Texas Tech University is Susan Graham, an accomplished mezzo-soprano who performed at President George W. Bush’s second inauguration and Senator Edward Kennedy’s funeral (TTU “About). Texas Tech’s School of Music offers five undergraduate degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in music, a perfect option for those who want to focus on the general study of music without an emphasis.

What sets Texas Tech’s BA in music apart from other programs? Well, for starters, among the faculty members, you will find Grammy Award winners and Karajan, Rhodes, and Fulbright scholars. The School of Music houses an 81-rank Holtkamp Organ consisting of 4,271 pipes, two Steinway grand pianos, a Kingston French double harpsichord, and a 36-bell carillon.

The BA in music requires 44 core curriculum credits, 42 required music credits, 18 credits of minor hours, and 16 credits of electives. Required courses include topics in music theory, music ensemble, music history and literature, and applied music. The School of Music admits students based on class rank and test scores. See the details here to decide if TTU is right for you.

Known as “The Powerhouse,” the University of Houston empowers students in academics and leadership and is one of the most diverse schools in the country. Out of 143 colleges and universities, UH’s Moores School of Music ranked #1 among the best colleges for music in 2021, according to College Factual. UH’s Bachelor of Music is a well-rounded program that features four concentrations with plenty of options to customize your program.

The BM includes concentrations in applied music, composition, music theory, and elective studies. The elective studies are for students who want to focus on music education (teacher certification), non-profit music leadership, sacred music, or music marketing. All BM students gain expertise in music theory, music history, and applied lessons as well as performance ensembles.

Applicants must apply to both the University of Houston and separately to the Moores School. Requirements vary depending on the chosen concentration. For example, BM in composition students must have at least a 3.25 GPA in all previous music theory, aural skills, and composition courses. Check out the application information here.

Founded in 1899, Texas State University is the only university in the state to have graduated a U.S. President (Lyndon Johnson, the 36^th president of the U.S.). Texas State’s Bachelor of Arts in music includes a liberal arts overview of music studies and is blended with a minor or a second major, like music business, music history, entertainment law, arts administration, and more.

Within the general education core requirements, this program requires three additional credits in English and math (or science or computer science) and six extra credits in a 2000-level modern language. You will take courses in Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Survey of Music Literature as well as courses within your chosen minor.

TSU’s School of Music has a threefold unified mission: “to make music together, to develop ourselves and our art, and to contribute value to our society” (TSU program page). Graduates of TSU’s BA in music work in a vast number of music fields: arts administration, law, management, sales, musicology, and more. Interested in Texas State? Application details and instructions are listed here.

The University of Utah, known as the U of U, is the flagship academic institution in Utah and known for its low tuition for both in and out of state students. The U of U’s BA in music is a liberal arts program with a comprehensive music curriculum, ideally combined with another field such as law, medicine, engineering, business, etc.

In this 128-credit program, you will take courses in music theory and history, conducting, performance studies (which includes private lessons and ensembles), general education courses, and 37 credits of electives. All students must pass the Piano Proficiency Exam, which is given at the beginning of each semester. As mentioned, this program is for students who wish to combine music with another field of study.

If you’re interested in this program, you must first apply and be accepted to the U of U. Then, submit a scholarship application to the School of Music (due date is February 15). You will then prepare for an audition video and scheduled virtual interview with the School of Music faculty. Finally, you will complete a diagnostic music theory exam.

Known as a community of “dreamers and doers,” the University of North Texas is one of the largest in the country. At UNT, you will find 109 bachelor’s degrees, 94 master’s, and 36 doctoral degrees that span across 14 colleges and schools. Through UNT’s School of Music, you will find a Bachelor of Arts in music.

If you have a wide variety of music interests, the BA in music may be for you. This program includes at least four semesters of lessons from a faculty member and courses in music theory and history, ensembles, and foreign language. You will learn from nationally and internationally known faculty, enjoy a small student-to-faculty ratio and have access to one of the country’s largest music libraries.

UNT alumni are doing great things all over the globe. Many work for performing arts companies, radios, television, or even film industries. Others are performers and faculty members at colleges, universities, and the K-12 setting. Check out the alumni spotlights here. Read the details of applying to UNT here.

The largest university in San Antonio with four campuses, the University of Texas at San Antonio has a lot to offer to its 34,000+ students. UTSA’s Bachelor of Arts in music offers an in-depth background in “music performance skills, ensemble experience, and music theory and history,” while also offering many electives.

This BA in music is flexible and works well for students who want an overall music education without specializing in a specific instrument. Along with basic education requirements, students must complete 30 credits of required music courses like Aural Skills, Basic Skills of Music, World Music in Society, and Digital Music Production. In addition, you will complete six credit hours in music literature and culture, nine credits in music theory and analysis/technology, and 10-14 credits in performance.

You also have the option of minoring in jazz studies, music technology, or another minor outside of the music field. Typical of most music programs, you should apply to the university first and then apply to the music program, which includes an audition.

The largest university in North Texas and the second largest in the University of Texas system, UT Arlington offers strong academic and research programs in 180+ degree programs. UTA is classified as a Carnegie Research 1 instruction and boasts more than 100 years of excellence! 

UTA offers a bachelor of music with seven different specializations, so get ready for options!

Through the BM at UTA, you can specialize in any of the following:

• Music education (E.C.-12)
• Performance (woodwind, brass, percussion, keyboard, strings, or voice)
• Theory
• Composition
• Jazz studies
• Music/business
• Audio production

All specializations include a strong foundation in music theory, history, and literature. Likewise, all music majors are required to enroll in a large ensemble each semester. You can review each BM degree in detail here. Because of the vast amount of degree options in UTA’s BM program, career opportunities are also numerous. Graduates work in all types of fields, from education and administration to producing and engineering. UTA also reports that its graduates earn an average of $47,496 during their first year of employment and $50,219 annually by year five (UTA music page).

Michigan State University, a top global university, produces successful Spartans. In fact, recent graduates boast a 95% placement rate, which is 12% more than the national average. MSU’s College of Music provides curriculums that are “bold, inventive, and connected” (MSU College of Music). You can earn a Bachelor of Arts in music that will prepare you for a 21st-century career in the music industry while preparing you for graduate school.

MSU’s BA in music provides a comprehensive background in music and fulfills the requirements for entrance for a Master of Music program. Here are some fun facts about MSA’s music department: There are 34 states and 26 countries represented among the student body, and 100% of graduates were “satisfied or very satisfied” with the quality of instruction at MSU College of Music.

To apply, submit an application to MSU as well as a supplemental application to the College of Music. Along with your application, you need two recommendation letters from two individuals who are familiar with your musical abilities and a 300-500 word personal statement that includes your education and musical background and future goals.

With its dynamic motto, “The measure of a life is its service,” Sam Houston University has been preparing students for meaningful lives and careers for over 140 years through its exceptional, transformative education. At  SHSU, you can earn either a Bachelor of Arts or Music and start your academic journey to a fulfilling music career.

The BA in music is for students who aim to study music in a general sense, and this program requires studying a foreign language. The BM in music requires that students declare a track in performance, music education/teacher certification, or composition. If you choose the performance track, you will specialize in instrumental, voice, or piano.

The program requirements vary from 120-133 credit hours. We also should mention that you can earn a Bachelor of Music in music therapy through SHSU. As you can imagine, graduates enjoy careers in all types of music settings, including education, composition, performance, and music therapy, among other fields. You will also be well prepared to continue your education in graduate school.

George State University, known as the “leading cultural and economic center of the Southeast,” has been ranked #2 in the most innovative university in the country and #8 most ethnically diverse according to the U.S. News & World Report. (GSU About page). Among six campuses and 11 colleges and schools span 250 degree programs, and one is the BM in music with five concentration choices.

Within Georgia State’s bachelor of music programs, you will choose one of five concentrations: music performance, music education, composition, jazz studies, and music technology. Within these concentrations are more choices. For example, if you choose music education, you will choose an emphasis in choral/general or instrumental. Georgia State also offers a Bachelor of Science in music management and a dual BM/MM program.

As a student at George State, you will have access to five venues, including two state-of-the-art rehearsal halls in the Aderhold Center. Georgia State’s School of Music enrolls around 450 students from six countries and 21 states. If you would like to join this diverse, talented community, check out the application details here.

Established in 1910, West Texas A&M University holds a rich history of excellence. WTAMU offers nationally ranked academic programs within its six colleges and two schools, and one of those schools is the School of Music, where you can earn a bachelor of music with emphasis options on performance, music industry, composition, music therapy, or music education.

Each BM concentration is further divided into areas of emphasis. For example, the music industry program includes two options: arts management and administration or music technology. Each BM concentration requires courses from the university core curriculum, music core, concentration courses, and electives. The music therapy program requires a six-month internship.

The School of Music faculty are among the best, including conductors, composers, theorists, and administrators, all devoted to educating musicians and holding the mission of preparing students “for careers in music in a student-centered, experiential learning environment” (WTAMU School of Music). The WTAMU School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. Check out the application and audition requirements here.

Founded in 1923, Stephen F. Austin State University is a public research school with over 120 majors to choose from. SFA’s School of Music offers a variety of musical degrees, including the Bachelor of Music with concentrations in performance, composition, music education, sound recording technology, and pedagogy. The program we are highlighting is the Bachelor of Music with all-level teacher certification options.

Within this BM program, you will choose one of three concentrations: elementary, choral/keyboard, or instrumental. All concentrations lead to teacher certification that “include classes that address classroom techniques idiosyncratic to music, current trends in education, and techniques specific to the area of study” (BM program website). You will complete 42 core credits, 70 credits in music courses, and 21 credits in professional education courses.

As a student, you will gain ensemble experience, including four concert bands, three choirs, the Orchestra of the Pines, the Lumberjack Marching Band, two jazz ensembles, and chamber music groups (School of Music “About”). If you want to check out Stephen F. Austin State University, read about the admissions and audition information here.

Located only minutes from Washington D.C., George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university and prepares its students to be engaged citizens, well-rounded scholars, and prepared to act (GMU “About”) GMU’s Dewberry School of Music features a BA in music that allows you to double major in another field or choose a concentration between music technology or pedagogy to narrow your focus.

Along with the Mason Core classes, you will complete 38-44 music core classes in topics like aural skills, music history, and music theory. The music technology concentration includes 15 credits in courses such as Popular Music Arranging, Electronic Composition, and Recording Techniques. With the pedagogy concentration, you will complete 18 credit hours in instrumental pedagogy and literature, applied music, as well as an internship.

Acceptance into the Dewberry School of Music BA program is through audition. Auditions are held once a month, and due to Covid-19, all auditions are held virtually via Zoom. Each concentration includes different requirements, so read here about what type of portfolio you would be expected to submit if you wish to apply.

As a Texas A&M University-Commerce Lion, you will be a part of a diverse community of 10,000 students from all over the world. You can choose from over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, but of course, we are focusing on the bachelor’s in music. An internationally recognized program, A&M Commerce’s BA/BM in music prepares you for any career you can imagine in the field of music.

The BA program is for students who wish to gain well-rounded expertise in music, and the BM is for students who aim to specialize in an aspect of music. Both degrees offer three different tracks: music education, music performance, and piano pedagogy. Regardless of your emphasis, you will take courses like Music History, Music Technology, and Music Theory.

The requirements for each program average at 127 credits and some include internships. As a student, you will have the opportunity to attend conferences, master level classes, and workshops. GMU shares the five steps on joining the Lion community: apply, submit documents, audition, apply for financial aid and scholarships, and follow up.

Named a Best College in the Midwest by Princeton Review, UW-Eau Claire is known for its high-quality academics and innovative, creative spirit. Nationally recognized for its music festivals and events, UW-Eau Claire lives and breathes music! UW-Eau Claire offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in music, and what better place to study your passion than the city that embraces music?

This program was designed for students who love music but would like to combine it with another passion, meaning you can combine your music studies with another major, minor, or certificate. The music major requires 36 credits in music courses and must be supplemented by a minor (24 credits) or a certificate (12 to 18 credits).

Courses for music majors include Music History and Society, Analyzing Global Traditions in Music, Contemporary Music Ensemble, and more. You can get involved and join a myriad of organizations such as the Blugold Ringers, Athletic Band, or Marching Band. Graduates from UW-Eau Claire’s music program go anywhere they want and become anything they want to be. Current alumni are music instructors, performers, songwriters, therapists, directors, recording artists, and much more.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a College of Distinction for its top-notch academic and career programs and its commitment to equity and inclusion. In addition, UW-Whitewater’s tuition, room/board, and fees are the lowest of all four campuses in the UW system. You will find a notable School of Music at Whitewater with both BA and BM programs, along with three concentration options.

You have plenty of options through UW-Whitewater’s School of Music. You can earn a BA in music, which is a flexible, liberal arts program with a required minor in another subject. If you’re looking for a specialized study in music, you want to look at the BM program with concentrations in music education, performance, or theory/composition.

In addition, you can earn 12-credit certificates to add to your program in accompaniment, jazz, music theory, or music history. If you’re interested in applying, first apply to UW-Whitewater as a freshman or transfer student. Then, apply to the music department here. You will need a private teacher or high school director to submit a teacher recommendation form, and then you will audition.

Illinois State University’s motto, “Gladly we learn and teach,” transforms all its academic programs and demonstrates the positive atmosphere on campus. Nationally ranked as a Top 100 Public University (U.S. News), ISU serves nearly 21,000 students across seven colleges. ISU features both a Bachelor of Arts and Science in music that focus on music education, music therapy, and performance.

Along with general education courses, students should take a minimum of 42 required credit hours in music courses and at least four semesters (8 credit hours) in applied music form. Sample courses include Texts and Contexts: Music, Group Instruction in Basic Musicianship, and Music Studies: Theory and Collegiate Life. Students who are earning the BS degree should complete the Science, Math and Technology degree requirements.

The School of Music has over 20 ensembles (bands, orchestras, choirs, opera, and others) that are open to any student. Graduates of ISU’s music programs work all over the world for music studios, recording companies, publishers, motion picture and TV industries, production companies, and more. You need an extensive background in music to be accepted to ISU’s music program, as well as a letter of recommendation from a music professional.

“Endless potential Extraordinary opportunities. Unforgettable experiences. Infinite pathways to a brighter future.” These words describe the University of South Carolina, fondly known as UofSC. UofSC is one of the best in the country, a Carnegie top-tier designation in both research and engagement. If you’re looking for a comprehensive music background with a strong emphasis in a topic, look at UofSC’s Bachelor of Music.

The BM features several areas of emphasis that you can choose or combine: composition, jazz studies, music education, performance, or theory. Each program ranges from 128-132 required credit hours that are divided into Carolina Core classes, major requirements, and concentration electives. Major requirements include courses like Applied Music, Ensembles, and Theory/History.

You can also add a minor to your program, including general music, music entrepreneurship, audio recording, and music industry studies. As a music student at UofSC, you will receive one-on-one training with distinguished faculty and visiting artists, as well as a collaborative community of peers. UofSC encourages prospective students to visit the School of Music or take a virtual tour to decide if this program is right for you.

The University of New Hampshire College of the Liberal Arts is looking for the “best and the brightest.” At UNH you will be a part of a creative, innovative community of authors, artists, educators, humanitarians, and musicians. UNH’s Department of Music offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music options.

The BA comes with three focuses: music liberal studies, performance study, and composition. The BM program is recommended for those who wish to study performance, composition, or music education at a more intensive level. The music education program combines with the undergraduate certificate program from the Department of Education. Many students also use the BM in music as a pathway to graduate school.

You will have access to the Bratton Recital Hall and the grand Johnson Theatre through performance opportunities at UNH, as well as the Paul Creative Arts Center. The music department hosts well-known artists and guests throughout the semester. To be accepted to UNH, you need to complete an audition and “demonstrate a high degree of musical competence or significant creative ability” (UNH Music).

Highly ranked as one of the nation’s best public schools by both U.S. News & World Report and Forbes, West Chester University is truly an academic powerhouse. Among its 180+ academic programs is a unique Bachelor of Music that offers five tracks and includes hands-on experience both in the courses and in practice.

WCU’s BM in music includes tracks in composition, theory, history, elective studies, and music therapy. Each program is designed with a comprehensive music curriculum where you will practice real-life skills through courses and internships. Through the elective studies track, you will gain general music experience and then choose an outside field (any academic program) to combine and personalize your program.

With state-of-the-art performing facilities, it is easy to get involved with ensembles, including band, vocal/choral, and orchestra. The Wells School of Music hosts more than 200 concerts each year! To apply, use the Common Application or the West Chester University Application, and be ready to sign up for Audition Day (held virtually this year).

Perhaps you have heard of the well-loved mascot, Sycamore Sam, who comes straight from vibrant and energetic top-ranking Indiana State University. This award-winning university was born in 1865 and boasts a long history of hard work, solid values, and of course, sycamore trees (ISU About)! ISU’s School of Music offers a handful of undergraduate music programs, but the one we are focusing on is the Bachelor of Music in performance or composition.

The BM in performance is best for students who aim to pursue graduate school and seek research and teaching careers in higher education, establish private studios, or seek a performance career.  The BM in composition is designed for students who want to go to graduate school and study composition and theory, or who want to prepare for a composing career.

The distinguished faculty at SU’s School of Music are devoted to teaching, research, and mentoring each student. The small size is perfect for the maximum student-to-faculty interaction. You also have the opportunity to join the study abroad program, which ranges from summers to a full academic year in 56+ countries! Check out the application requirements and instructions here.

The community at the University of Rhode Island is “blue-minded,” meaning “at-homeness in the ocean,” and viewing the ocean as a workplace, a playground, and a sacred place (URI About). As a student at URI, you will be a part of a diverse community of 76 represented nations and devoted to investing in the earth and the future.

The Department of Music offers both a BA or BM in music with plenty of specialization options.

The BA in music provides a background in performance, history, and theory and offers specializations in music, music history and literature, and jazz studies. The BM is a professional degree with concentrations in performance, music education, composition, and music therapy.

All undergraduate programs are 120 credit hours and take an average of four years to complete except music therapy, which includes a fifth year of a national internship. In addition, IRU’s Department of Music offers five minors that may be combined with this degree or one in another field. Auditions are required for all music programs and can occur either before or after you apply to the University of Rhode Island.

Grand Valley State University is a well-known public school in Michigan with almost 23,5000 students representing 75 different countries. As you can imagine, the opportunities at GVSU are vast. You can choose from 139 degree programs and 4,000+ study abroad opportunities! GVSU’s Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance offers three bachelor’s degrees in music: a BA, a BM, and a BME (bachelor of music education).

The BA is for students who want a liberal arts degree with a focus on music and works well combined with another field. The BM in performance is for students who want to focus on an instrument or voice. The BME, a professional degree program, collaborates with the GVSU College of Education and allows students to meet certification requirements for teaching music.

Studying music at GVSU will give you a strong liberal arts foundation and prepare you for the specific realm of music that you want to pursue. You will enjoy small classes with professors who are “performers, international competition winners, conductors, composers, theorists, scholars, and acclaimed teachers” (GVSU music department). All prospective music majors must audition, and you can find the details here.

If you know music, then you know Berklee College of Music, a private music college in Boston that offers degrees at campuses in Boston, NYC, Valencia, Spain and online. Berklee Online is officially the largest online music school in the world. Ranked by Newsweek as third among all U.S. colleges that “offer an exceptional artistic atmosphere,” Berklee is unmatched in its music opportunities.

As you can imagine, Berklee offers many music degrees, including a BM in music. However, this isn’t just any BM in music. You can choose from 12 (yes, 12!) majors. Here they are:

1. Composition
2. Contemporary writing and production
3. Electronic production and design
4. Film scoring
5. Jazz composition
6. Music/business management
7. Music education
8. Music production and engineering
9. Music therapy
10. Performance
11. Professional music
12. Songwriting

All majors will complete the core music curriculum, consisting of courses in arranging, ear training, harmony, conducting, and music technology. Some students combine some of these 12 majors, which requires an extra year, but could be worth your time if you can’t decide between two. To apply to Berklee, first submit your application on the portal, send in your transcripts, and finally, confirm your audition and interview.

A private liberal arts college affiliated with the Lutheran Church, Luther College “values its heritage, just as it values the diversity of its students, staff, and faculty, who hail from many faith backgrounds and heritages” (Luther “About”). Luther’s nationally accredited music program is one of the largest liberal arts undergraduate music programs in the country.

At Luther, you will find a BA in music with an emphasis on performance. This program includes 14 courses of major courses and seven semesters of applied music study within your performance area. Notable courses include The Materials of Music, Introduction to Musical Styles, and Ear Training I and II.

You will also complete recital performance requirements, along with ensemble participation. Some ensembles tour nationally and internationally! All the details are given in the Music Student Guidelines. Graduates from Luther often choose careers in music theory, education, conducting, composition, church music, jazz, and performance. Luther also offers a variety of scholarships and awards based on musical talent. You can apply to Luther College here.