B.A. in Music

The B.A. program offers a broad, flexible study of music, and it is easily combinable with other majors and minors. It includes performance studies and a sequence of music theory, aural skills, and history courses. Students may take additional electives according to their interests.

There are two optional concentrations in the B.A. degree track:

  • The Music History & Literature concentration provides students the opportunity to explore the scholarly aspects of music study. The exploration of music through scholarship, writing and research has many career outcomes and is well suited to liberal arts studies.
  • The Music Theory & Composition concentration is the perfect program for composers seeking to study music theory and composition in depth while also gaining a firm grounding in musicianship and performance within a liberal arts framework.
Student Learning Outcomes University Learning Goals (KMERI*)
1. All students in the music program should gain a broad knowledge and appreciation of important music within historical, cultural, and global contexts Knowledgeable, Multi-literate, Inquisitive, Responsible
2. All music students will achieve proficiency in aural, reading, and keyboard skills. Technical: The Candidate will demonstrate proficiency in aural skills. Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive
3. All music students will achieve proficiency in aural, reading, and keyboard skills.” Technical: The Candidate will develop and demonstrate keyboard proficiency. Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive
4. The Candidate will demonstrate knowledge of music theory, as well as proficiency in musical analysis and creation. Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive
5. The Candidate will demonstrate mastery of his/her instrument or voice and articulate the processes used to develop oneself as a performing artist. Knowledgeable, Engaged
6. The candidate can perform a wide variety of repertoire from his/her major performance area, representing a cross-section of styles and historical periods. Multi-literate, Engaged
7. The candidate has knowledge and expertise with digital media as related to the music profession. Knowledgeable, Responsible

*NOTE: KMERI refers to Otterbein's learning goals. It stands for KnowledgeableMulti-literateEngagedResponsible, and Inquisitive. To learn more about KMERI, visit our University Learning Goals page.