Degrees offered
Bachelor of Music
The B.M. is the initial professional degree in music. Its primary emphasis is on development of the skills, concepts and sensitivities essential to the professional life of the musician. At the center of the instructional program for this degree is the core curriculum, comprised of 27 credits of instruction in aspects of musicianship fundamental to all music degree programs. Included are courses in basic music theory, aural skills, music history, conducting and advanced theoretical skills.
The music education concentration incorporates requirements necessary to qualify for the commonwealth of Virginia’s Collegiate Professional Certificate to teach music in public schools. Reciprocity between Virginia and numerous other states makes it possible for those music education students who become certified to teach in Virginia to obtain certification in those other states.
More information about the requirements for the B.M. is available in the VCU Bulletin. Please also review the suggested course sequence for your instrument/area.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
The B.A. in Music is designed for students who want a degree that combines a breadth of general studies with a major in music. Included are courses in basic theory, aural skills, applied performance, music history and foreign language, as well as restricted and free music electives and a minor in an area other than music.
The degree also offers students an opportunity to create an emphasis in a specific musical field, such as music history and literature, music business, or theory and composition.
More information about the requirements for the B.A. is available in the VCU Bulletin. Please also review the suggested course sequence for your instrument/area.
Minor
Any VCU student may declare a minor in music with approval from the Department of Music. The music minor is comprised of 18 credits distributed among the areas of music history and theory, ensemble performance, private lessons and music electives. A music faculty adviser counsels every student about the selection of appropriate courses based on the student’s competence and interest. More information about the requirements for the music minor is available in the VCU Bulletin. Click here to submit the online application.
Master of Music
The M.M. is offered with a track in music education. The curriculum is presented as a three-summer program and has the flexibility to meet the needs of students intending careers as teaching practitioners or researchers. Students may choose a master’s thesis or project as part of the curriculum requirements.
More information about the requirements for the M.M is available in the VCU Bulletin.
