Department of Music - Music

Department of Music

The Department of Music offers both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education and a minor in music. Music students will develop musical and leadership skills in university and public school settings. You will work closely with dynamic faculty and other highly accomplished music educators in the region who are focused on helping students achieve their goals. Four-year scholarships are available by audition for qualified music majors, minors and ensemble participants. Non-music majors are also eligible for certain scholarships, and they are encouraged to participate in ensembles, take lessons and join music student organizations to keep their musical lives active.

Numerous performance opportunities are available to students, including Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Collegiate Singers, Chamber Singers, Jazz Band, Music Theatre, and other vocal and instrumental ensembles. Performing groups offer touring experiences to such places as New York City, Toronto, the Bahamas and throughout West Virginia.

Music majors study a comprehensive balance of music theory, music history and music education methods to prepare you for teaching music to Pre-K through adult students in a variety of settings. You will gain experience using state-of-the-art music technology resources as well as traditional instruments, and you will acquire teaching methods for vocal and instrumental music. Music education majors bring their experiences to a close with a senior recital on their primary instrument and a semester of student teaching in the public schools.

Students enjoy membership in professional and honorary music student organizations, which include trips to professional conferences and teaching seminars. Recent graduates of the music program have received graduate degrees in music education and pedagogy, and they are employed as music educators in public schools throughout West Virginia and beyond.

Programs of study: Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education and a minor in music.