Cost & earnings at University of Michigan–Flint What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor of Arts in Music at University of Michigan–Flint is an undergraduate programme combining practical performance, music theory, history and applied technology, suited to students who want a broad musical education with opportunities in theatre. It is designed for aspiring performers, educators, composers and arts professionals who value small-class instruction and community engagement.
The curriculum balances applied music (private lessons, ensemble participation and performance) with academic study in music theory, aural skills, and music history. Typical core topics include musicianship and ear training, harmony and counterpoint, music analysis, world and Western music history, composition basics, and applied music technology (recording, notation software and digital audio workstations).
Practical components emphasise weekly private instruction, studio classes, and regular performance in choirs, bands, chamber ensembles and musical theatre productions. Theatre-related coursework covers acting, stagecraft, script analysis and collaborative production practices, allowing students to combine music and theatre in interdisciplinary projects.
The degree follows a credit-hour structure common to U.S. undergraduate programmes, with options to pursue a major in music, a minor in theatre (or vice versa), and elective choices in areas such as jazz studies, conducting, songwriting, music education foundations and audio production. Senior-level capstone experiences typically include a recital, research project or portfolio demonstrating applied and scholarly learning.
Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit a completed university application. Typical academic expectations include a strong secondary school record with coursework in music where available. Prospective music majors usually take an audition or submit a performance recording and may be asked to complete basic theory placement and an interview with faculty.
International applicants must satisfy the university's general admissions standards and demonstrate English proficiency by accepted testing or prior study in English. Students interested in teacher certification should consult the College of Arts & Sciences and School of Education for additional program-specific application steps and prerequisites.
Graduates pursue careers as performers (vocalists, instrumentalists), musical theatre artists and freelance musicians. Many go on to graduate study in performance, composition, musicology, music therapy or arts administration. The programme also prepares students for roles in music education (often requiring subsequent teacher certification), community and outreach music programmes, audio and studio work, music publishing, production and theatre technical roles such as stage management and sound design.
Alumni commonly work with regional arts organisations, schools, churches, recording studios and theatre companies, or create self-directed careers as independent artists and entrepreneurs in the creative industries.
University of Michigan–Flint offers a supportive, small-campus environment with close faculty mentorship and frequent performance opportunities. The programme emphasises hands-on learning and collaborative projects that connect students with the cultural life of Flint and the wider region.
Students benefit from flexible degree pathways that allow combining music and theatre studies, access to applied instruction and ensemble participation, and advising that helps map professional or graduate-school trajectories. The department's community engagement and regional partnerships provide practical experience in performance, education and production, helping students build networks as they prepare for careers in the arts.
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