Accreditation: A process that certifies a college or university meets quality standards. Important for financial aid, credit transfers, and employer recognition.
Artist Diploma (AD): An advanced, non-degree program focused entirely on performance. Usually for professional-level musicians with no general education requirements.
Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA): A broad undergraduate degree combining music studies with general education. Ideal for double majors or those interested in multiple fields.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): A performance-heavy undergraduate degree with strong focus on practical skills like ensemble leadership or composition.
Bachelor of Music (BM): A specialized undergraduate degree for serious musicians. Focuses on performance, music theory, and composition.
Bachelor of Science in Music (BS): An undergraduate degree that mixes music with technology, science, or business—often chosen by students interested in music production or music education.
Capstone Course: A senior-level class (400–499 level) that integrates knowledge from earlier coursework into a final project or performance.
Composition: The art and practice of writing music.
Conducting: Leading musical ensembles like choirs, orchestras, or bands using hand gestures and interpretation skills.
Course Numbering System: The classification of college courses by level:
- 100–199: Freshman
- 200–299: Sophomore
- 300–399: Junior
- 400–499: Senior
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA): A terminal graduate degree in music focused on performance, conducting, or composition—often required for university-level teaching positions.
Doctor of Philosophy in Music (PhD): A research-based doctoral degree focused on musicology, theory, education policy, or academic scholarship.
General Education Courses: Basic college classes outside a student's major (like math, writing, or science) that all undergraduates must take.
Graduate Degree: An advanced degree pursued after earning a bachelor's degree. Examples include MM, MA, MS, DMA, and PhD.
Master of Arts (MA): A graduate degree, often in music education or broader areas like musicology. Less performance-focused than an MM.
Master of Music (MM): A graduate degree focused on performance, composition, conducting, or music theory.
Master of Science (MS): A graduate degree for music technology fields such as audio engineering or sound production.
Music Education: The academic study and training required to become a certified music teacher in schools.
Music Industry Careers: Jobs related to the business, production, or promotion of music, such as audio engineering, licensing, or artist management.
Music Theory: The study of how music works—scales, chords, rhythm, harmony, and structure.
NASM (National Association of Schools of Music): The official accrediting agency for music programs in the U.S. Ensures quality standards in curriculum, faculty, and facilities.
Performance Degree: A degree focused on developing musical performance skills, often through private lessons, recitals, and ensemble work.
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation specific to a department or program, like a School of Music—separate from overall college accreditation.
Undergraduate Degree: The first level of college degree (typically four years) that must be completed before pursuing graduate study.
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ARTICLE GLOSSARY
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