Music, Elective Study in an Outside Field
The Bachelor of Music in Music, Elective Study in an Outside Field at the University of North Carolina offers a comprehensive four year curriculum designed for students who want to develop strong musical expertise while gaining academic experience in an additional field of their choice. This unique structure allows learners to immerse themselves in advanced musicianship, performance practice, and theoretical study, while expanding their intellectual range through coursework outside the music discipline. Students build a strong foundation in music theory, aural skills, performance, and music history, giving them the technical and analytical depth required for diverse musical careers. By integrating broad academic exploration with focused musical training, the program supports a balanced and intellectually rich educational experience.
As students progress through the program, they participate in ensembles, studio lessons, and specialized courses that help refine their artistic identity and technical precision. At the same time, the elective study option allows them to pursue interests such as communication, business, arts administration, education, or other academic pathways, fostering interdisciplinary insight and professional versatility. The curriculum emphasizes artistic growth, creative development, research skills, and portfolio preparation, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate both musical and cross disciplinary professional environments with confidence. Through its flexible structure and commitment to high level musicianship, the program helps students cultivate a strong artistic voice supported by broad academic engagement
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Music, Elective Study in an Outside Field
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Musicianship and Academic Exploration
• Music Theory I
• Aural Skills I
• Applied Music Lessons
• Introduction to Elective Study Field
Year 2 - Developing Musical and Interdisciplinary Competence
• Music Theory II
• Music History Survey
• Ensemble Participation
• Intermediate Coursework in Elective Study Field
Year 3 - Advanced Artistic and Academic Integration
• Advanced Music Analysis
• Conducting or Performance Technique
• Research in Music Studies
• Advanced Elective Field Courses
Year 4 - Professional Preparation and Capstone Development
• Senior Recital or Senior Project
• Seminar in Music Studies
• Portfolio and Career Preparation
• Final Coursework in Elective Study Field
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue a wide range of paths that blend strong musicianship with interdisciplinary knowledge. Many enter careers as performers, music educators, arts administrators, or music researchers, while others apply their cross disciplinary learning to fields such as communications, business, or arts management. Opportunities can be found in schools, arts organizations, community music programs, cultural institutions, private music studios, and creative industry settings where both musical skill and broader academic competencies are valued. The program’s emphasis on adaptability and diversified learning also supports graduates who wish to pursue freelance work, continue with advanced musical training, or enter graduate programs that blend music with another professional field.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want rigorous musical training combined with flexible interdisciplinary study, allowing them to shape an academic experience that aligns with both artistic goals and broader career interests. Learners benefit from expert faculty mentorship, performance opportunities, ensemble participation, and access to resources that support technical and creative development. The elective study component strengthens analytical thinking and professional adaptability, while the music curriculum provides in depth preparation for artistic and scholarly pursuits. With its blend of structure, creativity, and academic breadth, the program offers students a powerful foundation for building meaningful, multifaceted careers in and beyond the field of music.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
