Music Majors & Minors
The information found on this website with respect to major/minor/program requirements is primarily directed at providing prospective students a general roadmap of the curriculum. Current Butler students are expected to review their degree audit report at my.ngskmc-eis.net and speak with their advisor regularly for detailed information regarding their specific degree requirements and their progress toward degree completion.
The School of Music website lists current curriculum guides only. Students or advisors wishing to view previous versions should contact School of Music Secretary Joy Rogers (317-940-9246). All links are downloadable PDF files.
Bachelor of Arts in Music (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Music (B.A.) is an excellent option for students interested in a Double Major or Minor in another academic area outside of music.
Bachelor of Musical Arts (B.M.A.)
The Bachelor of Musical Arts (B.M.A) degree is great for students with one or more Emphases, or a minor in another academic area outside of music. Considered a professional degree, the B.M.A. allows for more flexibility than the Bachelor of Music (B.M.) curricula.
Bachelor of Music in Performance (B.M.)
The Bachelor of Music in Performance degrees are professional degrees with a specific focus including Instrumental Performance, Piano Performance, or Vocal Performance. Students pursuing a B.M. in Performance degree typically pursue graduate school upon graduation.
Bachelor of Music in Composition
The Bachelor of Music degrees are professional degrees with a specific focus. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Music in Composition degree typically pursue graduate school.
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies
The Bachelor of Music degrees are professional degrees with a specific focus. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies degree often pursue graduate school, but are also prepared to immediately enter the field as a professional jazz musician.
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
Standard Music Education Degree Plans
Our standard Music Education degrees are four-year programs leading to certification in Choral and General Music Education or Instrumental and General Music in preK through 12th grade.
Five-Year Music Education Degree Plans
Area Degrees: Choral, Instrumental, and General Music
The Bachelor of Music Area All-Grade degrees are five-year programs leading to certification in choral, instrumental, and general music education for preK through 12th grade. Students pursuing one of these degree options must demonstrate proficiency in both the instrumental and vocal areas. Students can choose from the following degree options:
Music Education plus Music Performance Double Major
The Bachelor of Music in Performance and Music Education (B.M.) degree is a five-year program prepares students for certification in choral and general music or instrumental and general music for preK through 12th grade as well as for performance auditions for graduate programs. Students can choose from four options:
- BM in Instrumental Performance and Instrumental Music Education
- BM in Vocal Performance and Choral Music Education
- BM in Piano Performance and Instrumental Music Education
- BM in Piano Performance and Choral Music Education
Bachelor of Science in Arts Administration–Music
The Bachelor of Science in Arts Administration- Music is a degree option offered in conjunction with the Arts Administration department and the School of Music. It is an excellent option for music students interested in learning the “business” of making the arts happen. Students in the program receive a comprehensive education in not-for-profit administration, business, strategic communication, and music. Explore the Arts Administration-Music degree on the Arts Administration Majors & Minors page.
With our flexible curriculum and variety of degree options, Butler is a great place to pursue music and your other academic interests. In fact, at least 25% of our music majors are pursuing a double major or minor in an area outside of music! Learn more about our double major options, including a list of over 40 popular double major degree guides on our Music Double Majors webpage. Don’t see the pairing you are interested in? Email music@ngskmc-eis.net.
Important Program Update
As the Indiana University and Purdue University partnership in IUPUI approaches its end on June 30, 2024, it is necessary to redefine Butler’s partnership with Purdue Engineering programs. Butler is already working with Purdue-Indianapolis to create exciting new opportunities that will benefit both students and the central Indiana economy.
All students currently enrolled in the Engineering Dual Degree Program, including those starting the program in fall 2023, will be able to complete their degrees on schedule and without interruption.
Important Program Update
As the Indiana University and Purdue University partnership in IUPUI approaches its end on June 30, 2024, it is necessary to redefine Butler’s partnership with the Music Therapy program. Butler is working with IU Indianapolis to create exciting new opportunities that will benefit both students and the central Indiana economy.
All students currently enrolled in the Music Therapy Dual Degree Program, including those starting the program in fall 2023, will be able to complete their degrees on schedule and without interruption.
Emphases can be added to any music degree plan and are available in Jazz Studies, Composition, Music History, Music Theory, Music Performance, and Piano Pedagogy.
Music Minor
A minor in Music is available through the Jordan College of the Arts to students whose primary major is not in music. It consists of twenty-four (24) credit hours, of which fourteen to sixteen (14-16) are specified. For specific requirements, see the Music Minor curriculum guide.
Jazz Studies Minor
A minor in Jazz Studies is available through the Jordan College of the Arts to students whose primary major is not in music. It consists of twenty-four (24) credit hours, of which twenty-two (22) are specified. For specific requirements, see the Jazz Studies Minor curriculum guide or contact Dr. Matt Pivec, Director of Jazz Studies, for further information at mpivec@ngskmc-eis.net or 317-940-9068.