Our Programs

Bachelor of Arts in Music

The B.A. in Music curriculum is designed to serve the needs of students who have career goals in performance, composition, music technology, jazz, public school or private teaching, and graduate study. The Department of Music integrates rigorous academic training with a driving passion for the making of great music: the classics from the European-American tradition, jazz, the new ‘classics’ of our own time, world music, experimental music, music technology, sound design, and more.

Applied Areas:

- Music Composition/Music Production

- Instrumental Performance (Classical/Jazz): Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon; Saxophone(s); French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba; Harp, Violin/Viola, Cello; Piano, Guitar (Acoustic, Electric), Bass (Acoustic, Electric); Percussion; Jazz Drums.

- Vocal Performance (Classical)


Master of Arts in Music

The new Master of Arts in Music program is a dynamic and innovative initiative designed to empower students with advanced knowledge, skills, and insights, enabling them to excel in diverse facets of the musical landscape. Our mission is to cultivate a community of musicians and scholars who are well-versed in the rich traditions of music theory and history while being equipped to navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities in today's multifaceted music industry. Through a rigorous and dynamic curriculum, we foster a community that not only embraces the historical roots of music but also empowers graduates to contribute, innovate, and lead in the ever-evolving world of music, making meaningful contributions to the cultural and artistic fabric of society.

Students will be able to declare an Area of Emphasis from the following:

- Performance (Classical / Jazz)

- Choral Conducting

- Composition


Blended 4+1 Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts (BA/MA) Program

The Blended 4+1 Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts (BA/MA) Program in Music at California State University Â鶹Éç offers students an accelerated pathway to earn both degrees in five years. This innovative program is designed for dedicated music students who wish to deepen their knowledge, refine their skills, and expand their career opportunities in the dynamic field of music.

Building on the strengths of our diverse and inclusive undergraduate program, the blended program integrates rigorous academic training with advanced studies in music theory, history, performance, composition, and contemporary issues such as social justice and ecological sustainability. Students declare an area of emphasis—Performance (Classical or Jazz), Choral Conducting, or Composition—and engage in specialized coursework, applied lessons, ensemble participation, and collaborative projects.


Music Education Graduate Certificate

The 31-unit Music Education Graduate Certificate is a sequence of courses designed to prepare students to successfully apply and complete a Single Subject (in Music) Education Credential and become successful music teachers in K-12 California schools. Students receive education in a variety of musical disciplines and pedagogical approaches, including choral, instrumental, general, and world music. The program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


The Music Minor

A music minor is a great option for a student who is passionate about music, performance or conducting, but who chooses to major in another field. Our program aims to broaden, as well as deepen, students' understanding of the art of music and offers a good deal of flexibility!