Cost & earnings at Simmons University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor in Music at Simmons University is an undergraduate programme combining practical musicianship, academic study and theatrical collaboration, suitable for students who want performance experience alongside a broad liberal‑arts education. It suits aspiring performers, composers and music professionals who value small classes, one‑to‑one instruction and access to Boston’s wider arts community.
The Bachelor in Music integrates applied performance, music theory and history with skills in music technology and ensemble work. The curriculum typically includes individual lessons in your principal instrument or voice, ensemble participation (chamber groups, choir, jazz ensemble, musical theatre productions), courses in aural skills, harmony and counterpoint, music history and literature, composition and arranging, and classes in music technology and recording.
Students follow a combination of required core modules and electives that allow specialisation in areas such as classical performance, jazz, composition, music production, or musical theatre. Practical components are emphasised: regular juries, public recitals, participation in staged productions, and collaborative projects with the theatre programme. Many students also take courses across the liberal arts curriculum, such as psychology, business or education, to broaden career options.
Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (for example A‑levels, the International Baccalaureate, or equivalent). Typical entrants will have studied music or another performing art at secondary level, or demonstrate equivalent experience.
Audition or portfolio: candidates for the performance track normally submit a recorded or live audition and a short repertoire list; composition applicants submit examples of original work; applicants interested in musical theatre should prepare both a song and a short acting piece. Transcripts, a personal statement outlining musical goals and at least one academic or musical reference are also required.
International students must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s standard admissions requirements. Mature applicants with substantial professional or community musical experience are considered on an individual basis.
Graduates of the Bachelor in Music pursue a wide range of careers in the arts and beyond. Common paths include performing as soloists or ensemble members, working in musical theatre, composing and arranging, music production and audio engineering, arts administration and producing, teaching (often followed by certification where required), and further study at conservatories or graduate schools.
The programme’s combination with theatre studies also supports careers in stage management, musical direction, dramaturgy and production design. Many alumni work freelance, combine performing with teaching or coaching, or transition into related fields such as marketing for arts organisations, event management, and community arts education. Graduates aiming for specialised professional roles often continue with postgraduate training or certification.
Simmons offers a small‑cohort, student‑centred environment with close faculty mentorship and frequent performance opportunities. The university’s location in Boston gives students easy access to a dense cultural ecosystem—professional orchestras, musical theatre, contemporary music venues and prominent conservatories—useful for internships, collaboration and networking.
The Music and Theatre programmes are designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, so students benefit from shared productions, cross‑discipline coursework and practical training in both music and stagecraft. Facilities include practice rooms, rehearsal spaces, performance venues and music‑technology resources. Faculty are practising musicians and theatre professionals who emphasise both artistic development and career readiness.
Simmons also emphasises professional preparation through career services, internship placements and opportunities to work with local schools, community organisations and arts institutions—helping students build the professional experience and contacts needed for careers in the performing arts.
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