Programs of Study

Bachelor of Arts in Music
The Bachelor of Arts degree in music provides a broad base for understanding the role of music, both as a individual art form and in its social context, and ensures that students have basic skills in music. This degree lays strong foundation for the further pursuit of any aspect of music in graduate school. The B.A. program is one in which the future scholar, composer, theorist, and knowledgeable music lover is nurtured and trained. (program requirements)

Minor in Music
This program is designed for those students who have chosen another field of study as their major, but who wish both to add to their knowledge of music and to have their music studies formally recognized as a minor field by The Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. Although inadequate as preparation for music studies at the graduate level, the Minor in Music prepares students to be more informed about music and more experienced in music performance. Students in the minor in music program will take introductory courses in music theory, music history, and performance. They should have some music-reading ability and must discuss their interest with a departmental advisor before applying for this program. (program requirements)

Minor in Jazz Studies
This program is designed for those students who have chosen another field of study as a major, but who wish to elect a minor in jazz and contemporary music. Those students whose post-college plans include playing in jazz, rock, or blues bands will find this program especially suited to them. The nucleus of the program consists of private lessons and participation in the ensembles under the direction of one of the members of the GWU faculty jazz quintet. Further experience is gained in the jam sessions held each week. The course work, designed to be relevant to band musicians, includes basic tune writing, a survey of jazz styles, and an introduction to recording studio technology. (program requirements)