Program Overview
The A.A. in Music combines a solid general-education core, a 12-hour biblical/theological foundation, and two full years of intensive musicianship training. You will study harmony, sight-singing/ear-training, literature, basic conducting, applied lessons on your principal instrument or voice, and perform with ensembles every semester. Graduates leave with the musical skills, academic credits, and spiritual grounding needed to enter ministry, continue into our B.A./B.M./B.M.E. music majors, or audition at other senior colleges.
Program at a Glance
Credential: Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Music
Total hours: 66 semester credits
Delivery: Residential study—weekly ensembles, lessons & recital lab—plus online Gen-Ed where available
Typical length: Two academic years of full-time study (15–17 credits each fall & spring)
Entry terms: August | January
Ready?
Apply TodayProgram at a Glance
Credential: Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Music
Total hours: 66 semester credits
Delivery: Residential study—weekly ensembles, lessons & recital lab—plus online Gen-Ed where available
Typical length: Two academic years of full-time study (15–17 credits each fall & spring)
Entry terms: August | January
Ready?
Apply TodayDegree Requirements
FYI 101 Student Success – 3
General-Education Foundation – 18
Biblical/Theological Foundation – 12
Music core – 33
Harmony & Musicianship: MT 101, 102, 201, 202 (12) + MT 103, 104 (2)
MC 210 Basic Conducting (3)
MH 201 Music Literature (2)
Applied Principal/Secondary study, Class Piano or Guitar, Music electives (7)
Ensemble each semester (4) & MUS 101 Recital Lab each semester (0)
Career & Next-Step Pathways
Entry-level roles in church or nonprofit music ministries (accompanist, band member, children’s choir aide)
Private lesson teacher or studio assistant
Direct transfer into BUF B.A., B.M., or B.M.E. degrees—or audition at senior colleges with 66 hours already earned
What you will learn
Demonstrate functional keyboard skills and perform solo repertoire on a principal instrument or voice.
Analyze and realize harmonic progressions through written work, sight-singing, and aural dictation.
Rehearse and perform effectively within vocal or instrumental ensembles.
Explain major style periods and composers of Western art music and selected world traditions.
Integrate biblical principles and a Christian worldview into musical practice and ministry.
Ready to start your journey?
Let us help you. Fill out a form or contact us at: 800-328-2660 or admissions@buf.edu