University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Music combines core musicianship training with specialised study in a chosen concentration such as performance, music education, composition, or music technology. Core coursework typically includes applied lessons, ensemble participation, music theory and ear training, music history and literature, conducting, and keyboard skills.

• Applied lessons and performance: one-to-one lessons on primary instrument or voice, juries and a senior or final recital for performance majors.
• Ensembles: participation in large ensembles (orchestra, wind ensemble, marching band, choir) and chamber groups to develop collaborative and ensemble skills.
• Musicianship: sequential classes in music theory, aural skills, analysis and harmony, often with placement testing to set starting level.
• Music history and literature: survey courses covering Western art music, American music and 20th/21st-century repertoire, with attention to contextual studies.
• Conducting and pedagogy: basic conducting techniques and teaching methods—especially emphasised for music education majors preparing for certification.
• Composition and technology: composition, arranging and music technology classes, including digital audio workstations and music notation software.
• Electives and general education: liberal arts requirements and elective options that allow breadth across the university curriculum.

Students follow a structured sequence over four years, balancing practical study, ensemble work and academic coursework; performance majors will prepare recitals and juries, while education majors complete pedagogy coursework and student-teaching placements.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Mississippi requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a successful application to the university. Specific entry to the music degree often includes additional programme requirements.

• Academic qualifications: submission of high school transcripts (and any college transcripts for transfer applicants). Standard university admissions criteria apply.
• Audition or portfolio: performance applicants are typically required to audition on their principal instrument or voice; composition applicants may submit a portfolio of original works. Auditions evaluate technical proficiency, musicality and repertoire preparation.
• Placement testing: incoming students may take music theory or keyboard placement exams to determine the appropriate starting level.
• Additional requirements for certification: candidates for the music education pathway must meet teacher education program requirements, which include background checks and completion of specific coursework and clinical experiences prior to student teaching.

Prospective students should consult the School of Music admissions webpage and contact the department for details about audition repertoire, scheduling and any programme-specific forms.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music pursue a wide range of careers in the music and performing arts sector. The degree prepares students for both artistic and professional roles.

• Professional performer in orchestras, bands, chamber ensembles, choirs, studio work or as a soloist.
• Music educator at K–12 schools (for those completing the education track and licensure requirements), private studio teachers and community arts instructors.
• Composer, arranger or orchestrator for concert, media and commercial projects.
• Music technology and production roles, including audio engineering, recording and multimedia content creation.
• Arts administration, concert promotion, talent management and other cultural sector roles.
• Further academic study in graduate performance, musicology, composition or music education leading to advanced teaching, research or specialised performance careers.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi School of Music offers personalised instruction from experienced faculty, frequent performance opportunities and access to ensembles spanning classical, jazz and contemporary styles. Students benefit from one-to-one lessons, masterclasses, and a steady schedule of concerts and recitals that build practical experience.

• Facilities and resources: practice rooms, rehearsal halls, performance venues and music technology labs support both practice and production work.
• Community and cultural life: located in Oxford, the university is part of a lively arts community with festivals, visiting artists and collaborations that enhance learning and networking.
• Student support: departmental advising, scholarship opportunities within the School of Music, and career guidance help students navigate academic pathways and post-graduate plans.
• Pathways to certification and graduate study: structured programmes for music education candidates and preparation for continued study at conservatoires or university graduate programmes.

Together these elements make the University of Mississippi a practical choice for students seeking a comprehensive, performance-focused undergraduate music education with strong connections to regional and national musical opportunities.