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Music (B.A.) - Music Studies Specialization

  • Location IconBrookings Main Campus

Refine Your Talent as a Musician

As a music major, you will learn by performing, creating, analyzing and listening to music. You will refine your talent as a musician through intensive training and build a strong foundation in the humanities and social sciences, with courses in theory, history and performance. The music studies specialization takes advantage of the types of courses central to a liberal arts education. Although the degree is not tied to any specific career aspiration, students often use the degree as preparation for careers in musicology, music librarianship, music leadership and private studio teaching. The flexibility of the curriculum is also used by students desiring a performance-based course of study and to prepare for graduate school.

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Have a passion for music.
  • Possess prior training in music, such as in a high school music program.
  • Enjoy creating music as a soloist and in groups.
  • Want to combine music with another major.
  • Are disciplined, self-motivated, and hard working.

Career Opportunities

  • Musician
  • Graduate school
  • Collaborative musician

Recent Employers

  • Graduate school
  • United States military

Clubs and Organizations

  • Music Teachers National Association
  • Tau Beta Sigma

Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?

If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices. 

In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.