Music (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Music degree provides for the study of music within the context of a liberal arts framework. The limited hours in music provide a strong background in music while allowing ample time for study outside of music.
Three concentrations are offered in this program. Open Studies, Music Theory and Composition, and Audio Recording and Technology. Students must successfully complete an audition on a primary instrument or voice in order to declare the B.A. in Music major.
Total Semester Hours 50 - 58
Core Requirements (22 credit hours)
Music Theory (8 credit hours)
Music History (3 credit hours)
or
Ensemble (4 credit hours) selected from:
Applied (4 credit hours)
Piano (2 credit hours) selected from:
Recital Attendance (4 semesters)
1. Open Studies Concentration (28 credit hours)
Music Theory (8 additional credits)
Music History (6 additional credits)
or MUS 3594 - Music History and Literature I, Honors. Credits: 3
or MUS 3595 - Music History and Literature II, Honors. Credits: 3
Ensemble (2 additional credits)
Two additional credits in music ensembles
Open music electives (6 hours) in consultation with a music academic advisor
Upper-level music electives (6 credit hours)
Completion of an academic minor or second major outside the Department of Music
2. Music Theory and Composition Concentration (34 credit hours)
Music Theory (8 additional credits)
Music History (6 additional credits)
or MUS 3594 - Music History and Literature 1, Honors. Credits: 3
or MUS 3595 - Music History and Literature II, Honors. Credits: 3
Ensemble (2 additional credits)
Two additional credits in music ensembles
Music Theory and Composition Courses (18 credits)
(3 credits total)
(4 credits total)
At least 66 credits must be non-music courses.
3. Audio and Recording Technology Concentration (36 credits)
- Electives: 3 Credits
(6 credits required)
At least 66 credits must be non-music courses.
Information sourced from the 2025-2026 EIU Undergraduate Catalog.