James Madison University United States

B.A. in Music

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on your musical journey with the B.A. in Music at James Madison University, a liberal arts degree where approximately 45% of your credits will be dedicated to exploring your unique interests within music and other fields. This program is ideal for students passionate about music who also wish to cultivate a broad intellectual curiosity. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of music's foundational elements, from music theory and aural skills to applied performance and ensemble participation, preparing you for diverse creative and intellectual pursuits.

This undergraduate degree is studied full-time on campus over four years, integrating required and elective courses in music with general education subjects. Throughout your studies, you will actively participate in music ensembles and hone your keyboard skills, with opportunities for applied music lessons by audition. The curriculum culminates in a capstone project, guided by a faculty mentor, allowing you to synthesize your learning. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, ready to pursue advanced studies or careers in various music-related industries and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Music program provides a comprehensive foundation in musical studies. The first semester introduces students to the foundations of music theory and aural skills, alongside rhetorical reading and writing. Students will also engage in applied music, ensemble work, and general education courses, with an option for keyboard skills. The second semester continues to build upon aural skills and applied music, while also incorporating ensemble participation and further general education requirements, including specific music courses and remaining Cluster One electives.

1 First Semester

Foundations of music theory Compulsory
Aural Skills I Compulsory
Rhetorical reading and writing Compulsory
Applied music major course Compulsory
Music ensemble course Compulsory
General education courses (from Cluster One) Compulsory
Keyboard skills Elective

2 Second Semester

Aural Skills II Compulsory
Applied music major course Compulsory
Music ensemble course Compulsory
General education courses (MUS 206 and final courses from Cluster One) Compulsory
Keyboard skills Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,624.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 525.00 - USD 1,604.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Harrisonburg Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

98%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Cora Dance

SAG-AFTRA

The Walt Disney Company

Why Study B.A. in Music at James Madison University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at James Madison University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about B.A. in Music at James Madison University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require additional permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, the minimum scores are as follows: Duolingo overall 120, TOEFL overall 81, IELTS overall 6.5, and PTE overall 58. Specific section scores are also required for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue career paths such as Music Educator, Music Producer, Audio Engineer, and Performer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Arts in Music includes around 45% music credits, enabling exploration in music and other liberal arts subjects. Students engage in ensembles and complete a capstone project with a faculty mentor.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The B.A. in Music accepts students in January and August. Make sure to apply well in advance of these months.
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