Program Overview
The B.A. in Music combines rigorous musicianship, Christian worldview, and broad liberal-arts study. Students master music theory, aural skills, history, conducting, applied study, and ensemble leadership, then synthesize their training in a senior recital (MUS 460) and field practicum. Piano proficiency, continuous ensemble participation, and an Upper-Level Evaluation benchmark ensure graduates are performance-ready and academically prepared for music ministry, arts administration, or graduate school.
Program at a Glance
Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential studio & ensemble experience or fully online academic track
Typical length: 8 semesters of full-time study (15 cr/term)
Entry terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply NowProgram at a Glance
Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential studio & ensemble experience or fully online academic track
Typical length: 8 semesters of full-time study (15 cr/term)
Entry terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply NowDegree Requirements
1. Orientation – 3 credits
• FYI 101 Student Success
2. General Education – 33 credits
Includes ENG 151, 152 • MA 230 College Algebra • COM 200 • IT 202 • Humanities/Fine Arts electives • Laboratory Science • Social Science • MH 403 & MH 404 Music History I–II (counts for Humanities)
3. Biblical / Theological Foundation – 12 credits
• BF 101 Old Testament Survey
• BF 103 New Testament Survey
• EV 201 Personal Evangelism
• SF 101 Spiritual Formation
4. Music Major – 54 credits
Core Coursework:
• Music Theory & Aural Skills (16 credits) — MT 101-104, 201-204
• Conducting (6 credits) — MC 210 and MC 310 or 410
• Music Literature & History (8 credits) — MH 201, 403, 404
• Applied Music (12 credits) — Principal instrument or voice (with 3 upper-level credits) + Secondary applied study
• Large/Small Ensembles (8 credits) — Participation every semester
• Music Electives (4–5 credits)
• MUS 101 Recital Lab every semester (0 credit)
• MUS 460 Senior Recital
5. Open Electives – 18 credits
• Courses from any area to complete 120 credits (minors encouraged)
What You’ll Learn
You’ll achieve collegiate-level proficiency on a principal instrument or voice, develop strong music-theory and aural skills, perform in ensembles, understand major music styles and periods, conduct vocal or instrumental groups, and integrate Christian faith with artistic practice.
Career & Graduate Pathways
Worship leader, church musician, or ministry arts director
Arts administrator, performer, or private teacher
Graduate study in music, worship leadership, or ministry
Entry into M.A., M.M., or M.Div. programs
What You’ll Learn
You’ll achieve collegiate-level proficiency on a principal instrument or voice, develop strong music-theory and aural skills, perform in ensembles, understand major music styles and periods, conduct vocal or instrumental groups, and integrate Christian faith with artistic practice.
Career & Graduate Pathways
Worship leader, church musician, or ministry arts director
Arts administrator, performer, or private teacher
Graduate study in music, worship leadership, or ministry
Entry into M.A., M.M., or M.Div. programs
Ready to start your journey?
Let us help you. Fill out a form or contact us at: 800-328-2660 ext. 460 or admissions@buf.edu