Benedictine University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Music curriculum combines intensive applied study with academic coursework in music theory, history and aural skills. Students take private lessons on their primary instrument or voice, participate in large and small ensembles, and complete core courses in harmony, counterpoint, musicianship and music technology. Typical modules and experiences include:

• Applied Lessons: Weekly one-to-one instruction advancing technique, repertoire and performance practice.
• Ensembles: Participation in concert band, orchestra, choir, chamber ensembles and jazz groups, with regular concert commitments.
• Music Theory and Aural Skills: Sequential courses in harmony, counterpoint, ear training and score reading to build musicianship.
• Music History and Literature: Surveys of Western art music, 20th/21st-century music, and studies of popular and non-Western traditions depending on elective choices.
• Composition and Arranging: Foundation courses in composition, arranging and songwriting, often including technology-based composition tools.
• Music Technology: Instruction in recording, editing, notation software and digital audio workstations used for production and pedagogy.
• Pedagogy and Conducting: Courses in teaching methods for private and classroom settings and introductory conducting for rehearsal leadership.
• Capstone/Recital: A senior recital or final project demonstrating performance and academic growth.

Students may be able to tailor study through electives, minors or dual-degree options in related areas such as music theatre, education or business, and can take part in community performances, internships and study-abroad opportunities to broaden professional experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Music typically requires a completed secondary-school credential equivalent (high school diploma or international equivalent) and submission of academic transcripts. In addition to general admission, applicants are usually required to demonstrate musical proficiency through an audition and, where requested, a portfolio or recorded sample.

• Academic record: Official transcripts showing successful secondary study; college transfer applicants submit college transcripts.
• Audition: Live or recorded audition demonstrating technical skill and musicality on primary instrument or voice, including prepared pieces and sight-reading or aural tests as specified by the department.
• Additional materials: Some applicants provide a resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation and, for composition applicants, a portfolio of original work.
• Interview: A departmental interview may be part of the assessment to discuss goals and fit for the programme.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations as required for admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music pursue a wide range of careers in the arts and education. Common pathways include:

• Performing artist: Orchestral, chamber, choral, jazz or solo performance in professional and community contexts.
• Music educator: Teaching in schools, private studios or community programmes; many graduates subsequently complete teacher certification or postgraduate study to teach in K–12 settings.
• Composer/Arranger and Studio Musician: Writing and arranging for media, ensembles or commercial projects and working as a session musician.
• Music production and technology: Roles in recording, audio engineering, music production and sound design.
• Arts administration and management: Concert production, artist management, programming and fundraising in cultural organisations.
• Liturgical and community music: Church music director, choir director or community engagement roles in local arts organisations.
• Further study: Many graduates continue to master’s and doctoral programmes in performance, conducting, composition, musicology or music education.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits applied music students who need regular one-to-one instruction. The university combines conservatory-style applied training with a liberal-arts foundation, providing breadth across humanities and sciences alongside concentrated musical study.

Students have access to performance opportunities across campus and the wider community, rehearsing and performing in ensembles that range from chorus and orchestra to jazz and chamber groups. Faculty are active performers, educators and scholars who provide practical career guidance, and students can take advantage of internship connections, community partnerships and resources such as practice facilities, recital halls and music technology labs.

The programme is designed to prepare graduates for a variety of professional paths while allowing flexibility to pursue double majors, teacher certification routes or postgraduate study. The University’s emphasis on community, hands-on experience and mentorship makes it a suitable choice for students seeking a balanced, career-oriented music degree.