Minor Available
125 credits
125 credits
required for program
Minor Available
Department of Music & Theatre
Music
Department of Music & Theatre
Music
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Undergraduate
Studying music within the context of Scripture and the liberal arts.
Music may be the right degree for you if you
- are musically talented
- enjoy vocal or instrumental music
- have a passion for serving
- are interested in a career in music
Why study music at Northwestern?
In small classes, learn from credentialed music faculty, seasoned performers, sought-after conductors, and acclaimed composers who are dedicated to your musical excellence.
You can perform at regional, national, and international tours while building your education. Christian faculty will help you to grow in your faith and your music. With campus so close to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, students can take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving music industries.
All Northwestern music degrees hold accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music, the principal U.S. accreditor for higher education in music.
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Application Process & Auditions
Music is a dual admission program. Entrance auditions are required for this major. You must be admitted to both Northwestern and the Department of Music & Theatre to major in music.
See DetailsCareers in music
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in music.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Freelance or contracted performer
- Private instructor
- Church worship leader
- Audio technician
- Concert promotion
- Concert hall management or administration
- Music program coordination
- Artist representation
- Arts administration or management
- Promotion/media relations
- Music librarian
Who employs people with this degree?
- Music industry
- Private and community music centers (teaching)
- Churches, orchestras, choral groups
- Opera and theatre companies
- Military ensembles
- Recording studios
- Dance companies and teaching studios
- Parks and recreation programs
- Nursing homes and hospitals
- Concert venues and performance halls
- Music-related publishers
- Entertainment law firms and businesses
- Music shops
- Theme parks and cruise ships
Strategies for success:
- As an undergraduate, gain as much experience as possible, paid or unpaid, through college and local organizations. Seek internships or volunteer positions with relevant organizations.
- Confidence, personality, a positive attitude, and a love of music are important to success in many areas of music. Learn basic tools of self-promotion.
- Some jobs may require you to join unions or guilds. Research the industry to learn which ones are appropriate.
- Performers often travel frequently and must be flexible regarding their work schedules.
- Majoring in music provides students with a sense of aesthetics and an understanding of human expression valuable to many employers.
- Develop competencies in business management, computers, marketing, or other areas to broaden range of employment possibilities.
- Learn to articulate the transferrable skills provided by your liberal arts education: organization, written and oral communication, problem solving, leadership, and so on.
- Obtaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer experiences is critical to finding employment opportunities.
94%
of seniors feel well prepared for a first job in their field
96%
of alumni agree that faculty were genuinely interested in their welfare
Add
a double major or a minor with another discipline
What will I learn?
You will learn to analyze, think critically, and perform music in an ensemble environment.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the Department of Music & Theatre
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
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