The Bachelor of Music degree curriculum provides professional preparation for students seeking careers in music education, performance, composition or jazz studies. Students desiring entrance into this degree program should review the specific entrance procedures for each degree option listed below. Students accepted into a degree program are assigned a faculty adviser to assist in planning course work. Each option within this degree has been carefully structured to provide an education that encompasses the artistic and functional needs of the aspiring music professional. Within each of the degree options are opportunities for study to meet individual needs.

In the core music program, lower division courses emphasize music theory, literature and applied studies, while upper division courses explore advanced concepts in theory, music history, performance and specific career preparation in the chosen degree option. The Music Education option is offered for those who wish to pursue the California Single Subject Credential in Music All degree options except Music Education include the required performance of a junior recital All Bachelor of Music degree options include the required performance of a senior recital and required participation in performing ensembles concurrent with applied music instruction.

The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Music degree in Music is 189 quarter units, of which 106-108 units are in the major depending on the option selected. Consult with the appropriate undergraduate adviser for specific units required in each of the degree segments, including GE and free electives.

Program Entrance Requirements

Option I - Composition

Students are only admitted to the Composition degree option when they demonstrate significant professional promise as a composer. All students desiring entrance into the Composition option must submit a portfolio of compositions for consideration by the theory/composition area faculty. This must occur prior to enrolling in upper division music courses.

Option II - Jazz Studies

Each student seeking entrance into the Jazz Studies option must gain acceptance into the program through audition by faculty in both jazz studies and the student’s major instrument or voice in the applied music area of study.

Option III - Vocal Performance

Option IV - Instrumental Performance

Option V - Keyboard Performance

All students desiring entrance into the Performance options must be accepted by audition before the appropriate area faculty. This normally occurs prior to commencing music studies at the University, but may occur at any time prior to enrollment in upper division music courses.

Option VI - Music Education

All students seeking entrance into the Music Education program must submit two letters of recommendation in addition to their acceptance by audition into an applied music studio.

Option VII – Commercial Music

All students seeking entrance into the Commercial Music program must present audio and written examples of songs and/or compositions and/or arrangements that demonstrate their abilities in commercial music for consideration to the commercial music faculty.

Three tracks are offered in this option:

Track I: Performance;
Track II: Composition and arranging, and
Track III. Music Technology

Audition portfolios should address one or more of these tracks.