A Guide for Music Students
For high school musicians passionate about both their art and another academic field—be it computer science, business, or psychology—choosing between a double major and a dual degree is a pivotal decision. Understanding the nuances of each path is essential to align your educational journey with your career aspirations. By combining music with another discipline, students can cultivate a unique skill set that opens diverse career opportunities and fosters adaptability in an ever-evolving job market.
Double Major: Pursuing two majors within a single degree program, typically within the same school or college. For example, a student might earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with majors in Music and Psychology.
Dual Degree: Earning two separate degrees, often from different schools or colleges within a university, which may require additional coursework and time. An example would be obtaining both a Bachelor of Music (BM) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration.
Combining music with another field can enhance creativity, critical thinking, and versatility.
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths, from performance and education to technology and entrepreneurship.
Employers and graduate programs often value the interdisciplinary knowledge and dedication demonstrated by students who undertake rigorous academic programs.
The following institutions are examples of colleges and universities that offer structured programs for music students interested in pursuing double majors or dual degrees. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list; many other institutions may offer similar opportunities. It’s essential to consult each school’s academic advising resources to understand their specific policies and requirements.
Choosing between a double major and a dual degree is a significant decision that should align with your personal interests, career goals, and educational aspirations. By thoughtfully considering the benefits and challenges of each option, you can tailor your academic journey to best prepare for a fulfilling and dynamic career. Remember, the path you choose should reflect your passions and long-term objectives. Engage with academic advisors, current students, and faculty members to gain insights into the programs that interest you. With careful planning and dedication, combining music with another field can lead to a rewarding and versatile career.
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ARTICLE GLOSSARY
Academic Advisor: A college or university staff member who helps students choose classes, plan their academic path, and stay on track for graduation.
Bachelor of Arts (BA): A general undergraduate degree that often includes liberal arts subjects; can include music alongside other non-music majors.
Bachelor of Music (BM): A specialized undergraduate degree focusing on intensive music training and performance.
Conservatory: A college or school within a university dedicated to rigorous music training, often with auditions required for admission.
Credit Hour: A unit measuring the amount of classroom time per week for a course. College degrees require a certain number of credit hours to complete.
Curriculum: The structured set of courses a student must take to complete a degree or major.
Degree Program: A structured course of study at a college or university leading to a diploma in a specific field.
Double Major: A college path where a student completes the requirements for two majors under one degree (e.g., Music and Psychology under a BA).
Dual Degree: A college path where a student earns two separate degrees—often from different schools—such as a BM in Music and a BS in Business.
Elective: A class a student chooses freely, outside of required courses, which can reflect personal interests or support a second major.
General Education Requirements (Gen Eds): Foundational college courses in subjects like math, writing, and science that all students must take, regardless of major.
Interdisciplinary: Combining two or more fields of study—like music and business—to develop a broader skill set.
Liberal Arts: A college education approach that includes a wide range of subjects, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Major: The main subject area a student chooses to specialize in during college (e.g., Music, Psychology, Engineering).
Mallets: Stick-like tools with padded ends used to play percussion instruments such as marimbas, vibraphones, or timpani.
Marquee: A sign over the entrance of a theater that displays the names of the performers or productions—used metaphorically in the article to mean public recognition or ownership of a performer’s name.
Masterclass: Special class taught by experts in a field, allowing students to learn advanced techniques or skills.
Minor: A secondary subject a student studies in addition to their major, requiring fewer courses.
Performance Track: A music degree path focused on mastering an instrument or voice, often leading to careers in performing or private teaching.
Scholarship: Financial aid awarded to students based on merit, talent (such as musical ability), or need, which does not have to be repaid.
Semester: One half of the academic year, usually lasting 15–18 weeks, during which students take multiple classes.
Time Management: The ability to plan and balance school, rehearsals, practice, and personal life—a crucial skill for double majors and dual degree students.
Objective: Students will be able to explain the difference between a double major and a dual degree, identify key advantages and challenges of each, and research one college or university offering these options for music students, aligning their academic planning with future career goals.
Assignment:
Title: Mapping Your Musical + Academic Future
Teaching Moment
Instructions: (1 & 2 required, select 1 of 3 & 4, 5 required)
