Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science in Music

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree program are expected to acquire the following competencies in General Education, Musicianship, and Performance prior to graduation.General Education: The ability to communicate clearly with others through various means, including speaking, writing, and gesture; The acquisition of a fundamental understanding of mathematics and physical, biological, and computer sciences as they relate to modern society; The ability to form and defend opinions based on an informed knowledge of culture and history; The ability to form and defend opinions based on an informed knowledge of moral and ethical philosophies; The acquisition of a fundamental understanding of how to work out problems in a variety of disciplines in a volatile global society; The capacity to respect and defend views effectively and rationally; The acquisition of experiences in the multi-disciplinary nature of the arts and humanities through the study of diverse cultural elements.Musicianship: Students will exhibit a functional knowledge of the rudiments of music, including rhythm, melody, harmony, structure, timbre, and texture; Students will show an understanding of musical notation and the ability to read and realize standard musical notation at a functional level; Students will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the processes of composition, improvisation, and how they relate to the spectrum of music in a variety of styles and cultures; Students will exhibit a broad knowledge of music history and literature, including music of diverse cultures; Students will show the ability to develop opinions related to music and the arts and to be able to defend rationally these judgments to professionals and laypersons.Performance and Music Electives: Students will demonstrate performance ability on their major instrument at a level that allows for artistic growth and continuous improvement throughout their chosen career; Students will exhibit the capacity to realize a variety of musical styles; Students will demonstrate knowledge and/or skills in one or more areas of music beyond basic musicianship.