At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a comprehensive foundation in music theory, contexts, and contemporary applications. You will develop a well-rounded curriculum with the flexibility to choose elective courses and ensembles that align with your personal goals. The program is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Liberal Arts and Sciences core curriculum. Graduates will be prepared for careers as performers, arrangers, studio musicians, and composers, or for further academic study in music. You'll explore diverse musical styles, including Rock, Pop, Jazz, R&B, and urban music, fostering your creative direction.
Curriculum
The program requires 48 credits, including core music courses, specific major requirements, and ensemble participation.
- Year 1
- Foundations of Music SupplementMUSC 109
- Foundations of Music IMUSC 110
- Foundations of Music Lab IMUSC 118
- Styles & Techniques EnsembleMUSC 180
- Gospel ChoirMUSC 181G
- Jazz/Pop ChoirMUSC 181J
- Year 2
- Foundations of Music IIMUSC 111
- Foundations of Music Lab IIMUSC 119
- Performance Ensemble: SurveyMUSC 280
- Foundations of Music IIIMUSC 210
- Foundations of Music IVMUSC 211
- Elements of Music DesignMUSC 223
- Digital Music Composition and PerformanceMUSC 228
- Primary LessonsMUSC 271
- Keyboard Styles and Techniques IMUSC 177
- Guitar Techniques IMUSC 174
- Vocal Techniques IMUSC 179
- Year 3
- Arranging and OrchestrationMUSC 325
- Music, Time, and Place IMUSC 361
- Music, Time, and Place IIMUSC 362
- Music Styles and AnalysisMUSC 363
- Applied Music ProductionMUSC 350
- Performance Ensemble: GenresMUSC 380
- Songwriting IMUSC 327
- Creative Improvisational Practice IMUSC 335
- Primary LessonsMUSC 371
- Composition LessonsMUSC 373
- Keyboard Styles and Techniques IIMUSC 277
- Guitar Techniques IIMUSC 274
- Vocal Techniques IIMUSC 279
- Year 4
- BA Senior Music SeminarMUSC 488
- Showcase Ensemble: Fusion EnsembleMUSC 480F
- Showcase Ensemble: Gospel BandMUSC 480G
- Showcase Ensemble: Columbia College Jazz EnsembleMUSC 480J
- Showcase Ensemble: Latin EnsembleMUSC 480L
- Showcase Ensemble: Pop/Rock EnsembleMUSC 480P
- Showcase Ensemble: R&B EnsembleMUSC 480R
- Showcase Ensemble: ChicagoVoxMUSC 480V
- Recording and Performance EnsembleMUSC 481
- Songwriting IIMUSC 427
- Creative Improvisational Practice IIMUSC 435
- Primary LessonsMUSC 471
- Composition LessonsMUSC 473
Careers
Graduates of the Music BA program are equipped with skills and knowledge for diverse career paths within the music industry.
- Performers
- Arrangers
- Studio Musicians
- Composers
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Music BA program?
- Applicants must have completed secondary education, typically demonstrated by a High School Diploma, to be eligible for admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Music program.
- What are the tuition fees for the Music BA program?
- Tuition and fees vary by academic year. Prospective students, both domestic and international, should consult the official Columbia College Chicago catalog for the most current information.
- What careers can I pursue with a Music BA degree?
- Graduates of the Music BA program are prepared for diverse roles such as Performers, Arrangers, Studio Musicians, and Composers within the music industry.
- How long is the Music BA program and what does the curriculum entail?
- The program requires 48 credits and provides a comprehensive foundation in music theory, contexts, and contemporary applications. The curriculum includes core music courses, major requirements, and ensemble participation over a typical four-year structure.
- What is the application process for international students?
- International applicants must complete the official application form, submit official secondary school transcripts, provide proof of English proficiency, and supply financial documentation to cover tuition and living expenses.
Entry requirements
High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary education is required for admission.
Please refer to the admissions section for specific international student requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees vary by academic year. Please consult the official Columbia College Chicago catalog for the most current information.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees vary by academic year. Please consult the official Columbia College Chicago catalog for the most current information.
LivingLiving costs are not specified. Please consult the university for estimated living expenses.
The catalog is a guide and subject to change. Columbia College Chicago reserves the right to alter fees, rules, and policies.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the general admission criteria for undergraduate programs. International applicants may have additional documentation or requirements.
2. Complete the ApplicationSubmit the official Columbia College Chicago application form. This is typically done online through the university's admissions portal.
3. Submit Transcripts and Academic RecordsProvide official transcripts from all secondary schools attended. These may require evaluation or translation if not in English.
4. Provide English Proficiency ProofInternational applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores can be found on the university's admissions website.
5. Submit Supporting DocumentsThis may include standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and a portfolio (especially relevant for arts programs).
6. Financial DocumentationInternational students often need to provide proof of financial support to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
7. Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is usually required at the time of submission.
8. Await Admission DecisionAfter submitting all required materials, the admissions committee will review your application. You will be notified of the decision.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Music BA program?
+
Applicants must have completed secondary education, typically demonstrated by a High School Diploma, to be eligible for admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Music program.
What are the tuition fees for the Music BA program?
+
Tuition and fees vary by academic year. Prospective students, both domestic and international, should consult the official Columbia College Chicago catalog for the most current information.
What careers can I pursue with a Music BA degree?
+
Graduates of the Music BA program are prepared for diverse roles such as Performers, Arrangers, Studio Musicians, and Composers within the music industry.
How long is the Music BA program and what does the curriculum entail?
+
The program requires 48 credits and provides a comprehensive foundation in music theory, contexts, and contemporary applications. The curriculum includes core music courses, major requirements, and ensemble participation over a typical four-year structure.
What is the application process for international students?
+
International applicants must complete the official application form, submit official secondary school transcripts, provide proof of English proficiency, and supply financial documentation to cover tuition and living expenses.