Amherst College

What you'll study

Coursework covers core musicianship skills—ear training, harmony and analysis—paired with historical and cultural study of music and opportunities in composition and performance. Students typically participate in ensembles and recitals, receive one‑to‑one instruction, and may pursue independent projects or a senior capstone that culminates in a public performance or research paper.

Entry requirements

Admission is through the college's general undergraduate admissions process; students wishing applied instruction or placement in advanced courses should expect auditions or placement assessments in performance and theory. Incoming students without prior coursework in theory may be placed into introductory sequences to build foundational skills.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of paths: professional performance, music education, graduate study in performance, composition or musicology, arts administration, production and music technology, and careers where creative, analytical and communication skills are valued. The programme prepares students for both conservatory routes and interdisciplinary careers that combine music with other fields.

Scholarships & funding angle

Financial support typically comes through the college's institutional aid policies rather than programme‑specific scholarships; departments may offer small grants for travel, instrument purchase, recording or project expenses. Students should explore college financial aid, merit awards, external music scholarships and funding for study or performance projects.