Get Your Music Degree
This rigorous program provides extensive instruction in technical skills and creative approaches to music within the context of a liberal arts curriculum. We develop your musical skills through studio instruction, ensemble participation, solo performance, supporting music courses, and a final capstone experience. Our central goal is to create competent leaders who are prepared for careers and graduate study.
Music Program Highlights
- Our seasoned faculty includes an opera star with over 60 leading roles on the stages of 35 European opera companies.
- We offer multiple scholarship opportunities for incoming first-year and transfer students.
- Music students receive academic credit through our outstanding large and small group ensembles.
- Every semester, the vocal music program produces music theater scenes, involving not only vocal music students but students from other majors and areas, such as dance and theater.
Modality & Benefits
Get a traditional college experience with lively in-person classroom discussions and close proximity to your professors, mentors, and best friends.
Start Dates:
January & August
- Semester-Based Timeline
- Face-to-Face Instruction (some Online options)
- In-Person Office Hours & Support
- Relationships & Networking
- Extracurriculars & Immersive Campus Experience
Music Curriculum
Major & Minor Requirements
Popular Music Classes
- Music Literacy and Theory
Explore the fundamentals of music theory as well as aural and written music. - Beginning Conducting
Learn the basic principles of conducting technique, including baton use and basic psychomotor skills. - Music History and Literature
Study Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical styles through important composers and their works.
Vocal Ensembles
- Chorus
The Columbia College Chorus is an open-enrollment ensemble. No audition or experience is necessary in order to join. Members represent many different majors and areas of study across campus. This ensemble performs each semester in Chapel, and at the fall and spring choral concerts. Students who sing in Chorus have the opportunity to develop music literacy skills and basic vocal techniques while studying music that represents a variety of cultures and time periods. - Concert Choir
The Columbia College Concert Choir is open to all Columbia College Students. Most music majors and minors are members of the Concert Choir, as well as participants from other majors and areas. This ensemble performs each semester at the fall and spring choral concerts. Students who sing in Concert Choir have the opportunity to develop advanced music literacy skills and advanced vocal techniques while studying music representing a variety of cultures and time periods. - Hi-Cs
The Hi-Cs is the Music Program’s smallest vocal ensemble. The focus of the group is vocal jazz, and the nine-voice ensemble is open to music students by audition during the fall semester. The group travels and represents Columbia College both on and off campus and functions as a professional ensemble in the community. In addition to performing for campus events, they carol during the holiday season.
Scholarships
An audition is required before scholarship considerations are made. Music scholarships are available to incoming first-year and transfer students. No awards will be made until you have been officially accepted for admission to Columbia College.
- Voice and Keyboard
Prepare two selections of a contrasting nature representing your very best effort. An accompanist will be provided by Columbia College. You may use taped accompaniments if necessary. Previously recorded auditions may be accepted via the registration form. - Instrumentalists
Prepare two pieces that represent your most advanced playing ability.
With Music, the Sky's the Limit
The field of music composition and performance offers a variety of traditional and flexible career options. From teaching to directing to production management, a bachelor's degree in music can equip you with technical and interpersonal skills that will take you far.
Sought-After Skills
- Arts and Entertainment
- Education
- Business
- Church Music
- Continuing Education
Get Your MBA in One Year
Increase your earning potential and become even more marketable with a master's degree. Your solid foundation will make you a strong candidate for any graduate program. Check out our 1-year MBA program.
Next Steps for Your Degree in Music
- Industry Outlook
- Career Paths
- Graduate School
Student Experiences
"Columbia College's Music Program provides me with a space where I can develop my musicianship and creativity. The educators are amazing and motivating. C.C.'s Music Program feels like another home."
Lamonica Hampton
Class of 2020