Music, BA

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

The Bachelor of Arts in Music at Western Washington University offers a comprehensive liberal arts education for students passionate about music's diverse landscape. You will delve into core areas of music theory, aural skills, and musicology, developing a deep understanding of musical structures, historical contexts, and performance practices. This flexible undergraduate degree, requiring 60 credits, allows you to tailor your studies, potentially pursuing a double major or minor alongside your musical pursuits. It is ideal for those seeking a broad yet rigorous musical foundation.

This full-time, on-campus program spans four years, guiding you through foundational music sequences starting each Fall quarter, including theoretical and analytical skills, aural training, and keyboard proficiency. You will engage in private instruction and participate in ensemble performances, choosing from a wide array of instrumental and vocal options. You will graduate with a well-rounded musical education, prepared for various pathways, including further academic study or diverse careers within the music industry and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Music, BA program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to build a strong foundation in music theory, aural skills, and keyboard proficiency through a sequence of core courses. Students will also have the opportunity to explore a wide array of musical genres and topics through elective courses, ranging from popular and world music to jazz, composition, and musicology. This program provides a broad and deep engagement with the diverse field of music.

1 Music Core Sequences

Aural Skills I
Keyboard Skills I
Advanced Keyboard Skills I
Theoretical and Analytical Skills I
Aural Skills II
Keyboard Skills II
Advanced Keyboard Skills II
Theoretical and Analytical Skills II
Aural Skills III
Keyboard Skills III
Advanced Keyboard Skills III
Theoretical and Analytical Skills III
Aural Skills IV
Keyboard Skills IV
Theoretical and Analytical Skills IV
Aural Skills V
Keyboard Skills V
Theoretical and Analytical Skills V
Aural Skills VI
Keyboard Skills VI
Theoretical and Analytical Skills VI
Foundations in Musicology
Case Studies in Musicology I
Case Studies in Musicology II

2 Electives

Survey of Popular and Rock Music
Intro to Hip-Hop
Introduction to Country Music
Survey of Video Game Music
Iconic Music in Iconic Films
Electronic Music and Technology
Jazz: An American Original
Survey of World Musical Cultures
Elementary Composition
Music & Sustainability
Music & Social Justice
Form and Analysis: Music to 1900
Modal Counterpoint
Tonal Counterpoint
Orchestration
Composition
Jazz Theory and Improvisation I
Jazz Theory and Improvisation II
Jazz Theory and Improvisation III
Analytical Techniques: 20th-Century Music
Free Counterpoint
Composition
Jazz Arranging and Composition I
Jazz Arranging and Composition II
Jazz Arranging III
Seminar in Musicology

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,760.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,450.00 - USD 1,750.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Bellingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsCorporate & Commercial LawCriminal LawFamily & Civil LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsTalent & Artist ManagementTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study Music, BA at Western Washington University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Western Washington 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 Music, BA at Western Washington University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Work options include on-campus jobs, and, after the first year, potential off-campus work with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English test requirements. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with varying minimum scores for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers such as music teacher, performer, composer, music producer, or music therapist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Music BA is a liberal arts degree encompassing core courses in music theory and performance. This program consists of 60 credits, allowing for the option to pursue additional majors or minors.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Music BA program has three intake months: January, March, and September. You can apply during any of these months to begin your studies.
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