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The Music Bachelor of Arts program at the University of Wisconsin offers a comprehensive and immersive education in both the theory and practice of music. Students engage deeply with musical performance, composition, history, theory, and analysis, developing a broad understanding of music across genres, cultures, and historical periods. The curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency, artistic expression, and intellectual engagement, enabling students to cultivate both performance skills and scholarly expertise. Through ensemble participation, private instruction, and coursework in musicology and ethnomusicology, students gain insight into how music functions as a cultural, social, and artistic force.
Students also explore areas such as music technology, recording, conducting, and pedagogical methods, providing a strong foundation for careers in performance, education, and research. Opportunities for collaboration across disciplines encourage creativity and innovation, while access to performance venues, recording studios, and rehearsal spaces supports hands-on experience. By integrating practical skills with theoretical knowledge, the program prepares graduates to navigate the multifaceted world of music, whether pursuing professional performance, composition, academic research, or careers in arts administration and production.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Music
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Music
• Music Theory I & II
• Ear Training and Sight-Singing
• Introduction to Music History
• Applied Music or Ensemble Participation
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Technique
• Music Theory III & IV
• Music Technology and Recording
• Music History: Renaissance to Romantic Period
• Applied Music or Ensemble Participation
Year 3 – Advanced Musicianship and Research
• Composition and Arranging
• Conducting and Performance Practice
• Ethnomusicology and Cultural Studies in Music
• Applied Music or Ensemble Participation
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Preparation
• Senior Recital or Composition Project
• Advanced Music Analysis or Seminar
• Music Pedagogy
• Independent Study or Research Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Music B.A. program are prepared for careers in performance, composition, music education, arts administration, music production, sound engineering, and research. Many alumni pursue advanced studies in music performance, composition, music therapy, or ethnomusicology, while others enter professional ensembles, orchestras, or recording studios. The program equips students with skills that are highly valued in the creative and cultural sectors, including collaboration, critical thinking, discipline, and technical expertise. Graduates may also work in event management, cultural programming, media production, and academic research, contributing to music’s role in education, society, and entertainment on a local and global scale.
Why Choose This Program
The Music B.A. program combines artistic development, theoretical knowledge, and practical application, offering students an enriching and versatile musical education. With access to high-quality rehearsal spaces, performance venues, recording studios, and faculty mentorship, students are supported in both technical mastery and creative exploration. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary engagement and critical analysis of music in cultural and historical contexts, while emphasizing professional preparation for performance, teaching, or research careers. Students develop not only musical expertise but also transferable skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in diverse professional, academic, and artistic environments.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
