Cost & earnings at La Roche University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Music at La Roche University combines conservatory-style training with a broad liberal‑arts education, preparing students for careers in performance, teaching, church and community music, composition and arts administration. It suits aspiring performers, collaborative musicians and those who want a practical, hands‑on programme with regular performance opportunities and close faculty mentoring.
The programme blends applied performance, musicianship skills and contextual study across music and theatre. Core study areas include private applied lessons, ensemble participation (choral, chamber, jazz and orchestra), aural skills and music theory, and music history. Students also take modules in theatre fundamentals such as acting technique, stagecraft and voice for the actor to support musical theatre and collaborative projects.
Typical modules and experiences you will encounter:
The degree is delivered within La Roche’s liberal‑arts framework, so students also complete general education coursework that supports critical thinking, communication and interdisciplinary study.
Applicants should hold a high‑school diploma or equivalent. Admission to the programme typically requires an audition or submission of a performance portfolio demonstrating technical ability and musical potential. The audition usually includes prepared repertoire (solo pieces or songs), sight‑reading or aural tasks and may include an interview or short theory assessment.
Typical academic considerations include high‑school transcripts showing completion of standard secondary studies. International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements as set by the university. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college transcripts and a transfer audition; accepted transfer credit depends on course equivalence.
Graduates take a variety of professional paths. Common careers include professional performer (solo, chamber, orchestral, choral and musical theatre), music educator (with additional certification where required), church and liturgical musician, composer/arranger, and roles in arts administration, production or community arts programming. Skills developed in the programme—ensemble collaboration, teaching experience, technology literacy and project management—also translate to careers in music publishing, recording, event management and non‑profit arts organisations.
Many students continue to postgraduate study in performance, musicology, composition, music therapy or education, while others build portfolios through local performance, freelancing and internships facilitated by faculty contacts and community partnerships.
La Roche offers a personalised, student‑centred learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing regular one‑on‑one lessons and tailored performance coaching. The programme emphasises hands‑on experience—students perform frequently, participate in collaborative theatre‑music projects, and gain practical skills in music technology and arts leadership.
As a liberal‑arts university with strong community links, La Roche provides opportunities for internships and outreach in the Pittsburgh arts region, enabling students to build professional networks while completing a broad academic education. The combination of conservatory‑style training and liberal‑arts breadth prepares graduates to adapt to a range of careers within music and theatre.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.