Susquehanna University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical performance and theatrical training with academic study of music. Core components typically include applied lessons on primary instrument or voice, large and small ensembles, choral and instrumental repertoire, and music-theatre performance. Academic modules cover music theory and ear training, music history and literature, composition and arranging, conducting basics, and musicianship. Theatre-related study can include acting techniques, movement, stagecraft, script analysis and musical theatre workshop.

Students also take liberal-arts electives to broaden intellectual perspective and often complete a senior project or recital as a capstone. Additional options commonly available include music technology and recording, music education methodology for those pursuing teaching, piano proficiency, diction and language for singers, and internships or practicum placements in performance production, community arts organisations, or school settings.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor in Music programme normally requires a standard undergraduate application to the university plus a successful audition and, where applicable, a brief interview or portfolio review. Applicants should have a high-school diploma or equivalent, academic transcripts, and typically provide letters of recommendation. Auditions assess technique, repertoire, musicianship and potential for collegiate-level study; prepared pieces and sight-reading or aural components are commonly requested.

Specific departmental criteria may vary by area (voice, instrumental, composition, music theatre), and applicants intending to pursue teacher training should check additional prerequisites for music education pathways. Standardised-test submission policies follow the university’s general admissions guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across performance, education, production and arts administration. Typical pathways include:

• Professional performer in orchestras, chamber groups, choirs, bands or musical theatre companies
• Music educator at the K–12 level (with further certification where required) or private studio teacher
• Composer, arranger or accompanist
• Arts administrator, producer or stage manager in theatres, festivals and cultural organisations
• Music-technology roles such as audio engineering, recording and live-sound support
• Further graduate study in performance, conducting, composition, musicology, or theatre disciplines

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna offers an intimate learning environment where students receive substantial one-to-one instruction, frequent performance opportunities and mentorship from faculty active in performance and scholarship. The programme’s placement within a liberal-arts college encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration and development of communication and critical-thinking skills valued in music careers.

Students benefit from a range of ensembles and staged productions, access to dedicated practice and rehearsal spaces, and opportunities to engage with the broader community through outreach, internships and touring. The combination of conservatory-style training and a broad academic curriculum prepares graduates both for immediate professional entry and for advanced study.