music students in concert

Music Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Discover the power of music to communicate the human experience, express emotions and connect cultures worldwide.

Music is a universal language that connects people across cultures and expresses the human experience. A music degree from UND gives you the power to pursue your passions wherever they lead.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120 (major)

Why earn a music degree?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 15
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

 

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

UND's music degree combines a deep dive into music theory, history and performance with a rich experience in the liberal arts. Along with your music courses, you'll expand your horizons with electives in another discipline, such as history, art, mathematics, German or French.

Our Hughes Fine Arts Center boasts all the facilities you need for an exceptional musical experience, including:

  • Private practice rooms
  • Specially designed rehearsal halls
  • Keyboard labs
  • A 200-seat recital hall
  • A music library

All music majors are invited to participate in ensembles ranging from chamber ensembles to choir to orchestra and band. You'll have an opportunity for real-world internship experience, preparing you to make a living doing what you love.

Music Degree at UND

  • Perform with our choirs, bands, chamber orchestra and chamber ensembles.

  • Travel the world for performances in destinations such as China, Japan, Brazil or Cuba.

  • Apply for a scholarship to support your music studies.

  • Get involved in a student group like Music Students of UND,National Association for Music Education (NAfME) or Pi Kappa Lambda.

  • All UND music degrees are accredited by NASM, the National Association of Schools of Music.

  • Attend or perform at events throughout the year on campus and in the community.

What can you do with a music degree?

52K

Average advertised salary for job postings requiring a music degree, 2022

Labor Insight

4%

Anticipated job growth for musicians and singers through 2030

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Music majors go on to work in a wide variety of settings. Some use their liberal arts skills (like critical thinking, communication and problem solving) to thrive in professions as diverse as business, advertising and private teaching.

Others pursue careers in the music industry, including:

  • Instrumental, vocal or church music
  • Composing
  • Conducting
  • Arts administration
  • Music business or technology

Skills with a Music Degree

A music degree gives you the strategic skills you need, including:

  • Solo and ensemble performance
  • Music composition and theory
  • Communication and collaboration
  • Creative and critical thinking

Music Degree Jobs

UND music alumni have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • American Youth Symphony, Inc.
  • California State University, Long Beach
  • Dunes Summer Theatre

Music Degree Courses

MUSC 423. Instrumental and Choral Arranging. 2 Credits.

Scoring techniques for instrumental and vocal ensembles, including band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, choir and children's chorus. Specific areas of focus to be determined by abilities and interests of the students. Prerequisite: MUSC 134. F, odd years.

MUSC 201. Rock and Roll History I: From World War II to 1975. 3 Credits.

This class will give students a survey of the major styles, periods, and influence-streams that make up the extremely large and varied category of "Rock" music produced between World War II and 1975. The course covers many styles, but the focus is on English-language mainstream popular music. F.

MUSC 203. Music and Culture. 3 Credits.

Exploration of how human culture is expressed through music. F,S.

MUSC 256. Basic Conducting. 2 Credits.

Development of basic conducting techniques, baton technique, and use of the left hand. Reading of choral and instrumental scores. Prerequisite: MUSC 130. F.

MUSC 130. Music Theory I. 3 Credits.

The study of diatonic harmonic and melodic principles of Western European music from 1600 to 1900. Topics include harmonic progressions, melodic patterns, rhythmic patterns, and voice leading. Material is learned through part writing, keyboard skills, and music analysis. Corequisite: MUSC 131. F.

MUSC 273. Instrumental Jazz Ensemble. 1 Credit.

Big band jazz ensemble performing music ranging from the swing era to the sounds of today. Repeatable to 12.00 credits. F,S.

UND Music singing performance

Best Music Degree Programs

Our music degree program consistently ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

Great Value For Music Majors
50 Best Affordable Music Education Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

Leaders in Music

Students are encouraged to be expressive with their art and to participate in the music program's community.

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