Music, BA
THE MAJOR IN MUSIC
The Bachelor of Arts in music at UMass Boston provides an intensive grounding in music theory, history, and performance, both solo and ensemble. The program combines professional and aesthetic instruction in music within the context of a liberal arts education. No formal audition is required for entrance into the music program as a major or minor. Prospective music majors and minors must, however, already be matriculated at UMass Boston as degree-seeking students. To formally apply to UMass Boston and request a catalog, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office at 617-287-6100.
Our music curriculum prepares students for advanced professional training or graduate study. A related course of study leads to music teacher licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Each student majoring in music will be assisted by a departmental advisor to plan a sequence of courses that will meet his or her own needs and satisfy the requirements of the Music Department.
The Minor in Music
Eighteen to 20 credits are required for the minor. Three separate options are available for those students wishing to minor in music.
Theory
This option offers a coordinated sequence of music theory courses with supplementary courses in music history and performance.
Requirements
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Music Theory
121 (Theory I)
122 (Theory II)
123 (Ear Training and Sight Singing I)
124 (Ear Training and Sight Singing II) - one semester of music history at the 300 level
- two semesters in a performing ensemble
- and one music elective of the student's choice. (Although not required, Music 131 (Elements:Keyboard I) is recommended for the minor in theory.)
History
This option offers a survey of the history of music from the Middle Ages to the present, a theory component and performance experience.
Requirements
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Music History
301 (Music History I)
302 (Music History II)
303 (Music History III) - one upper-level music history elective
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one year of music theory-
Music 121 (Theory I)
Music 122 (Theory II) - and one semester in a performing ensemble.
Performance
This option offers students a course of study emphasizing vocal or instrumental performance, with additional courses in music theory and history.
Requirements
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four semesters in a performing ensemble
Z101 (Chorus)
Z102 (Chamber Singing)
Z104 (Jazz Band)
Z106 (Orchestra)
Z294 (Chamber Ensemble) -
one year of music theory
121 (Theory I)
122 (Theory II) - one semester of music history at the 300 level, and one music elective.
All students minoring in music are encouraged to enroll in private music instruction offered through the Music Department and Continuing Education.
No course required for the minor in music may be taken pass/fail.
MUSIC EDUCATION LICENSE
Our department offers a program leading toward the Initial Licensure in Music Education. (There are Master’s degree programs offered through the Graduate College of Education.) See the Teacher Licensure page.
