Our program offers an education in music theory, history, performance, and pedagogy, preparing students for careers in music education, performance, composition, and related fields. With a focus on growing creativity, expression, and excellence, our curriculum combines theory with practice to cultivate versatile and passionate musicians. Gain hands-on experience through showcases, performances, and audio/video production, preparing you for diverse job opportunities in the music industry.
What is a BA in Music degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Music?
Music students at St. Ambrose will receive in-depth training and experience to help aspiring musicians and educators grow. Musicians work closely with faculty to craft a personalized curriculum and hands-on experiences to help each student reach their goals.
Marching arts program
St. Ambrose marching arts program: Color guard, front ensemble, WGI Winter Guard & Indoor Percussion.
Real podium time
Musicians lead ensembles, gaining podium experience before student teaching, including rehearsal and concert conducting.
Industry connections
Internship options include Quad City Symphony, Mississippi Valley Blues Society, Keynotes Vocal Studio, and local churches.
Music teacher education
Our music teacher education program is available for students interested in teaching music in K-12 settings.
What you’ll learn in your Music program
From technique-based courses to theory, performance, and history, the St. Ambrose Music Department makes sure that each student has a versatile range of skills before graduating. Both vocal and instrumental skills will be honed, and a senior recital will provide the opportunity to showcase all that you’ve learned. Some examples of course content include:
- Educational use of technologies including computers; MIDI and electronic keyboards; amplification, recording and playback of sound
- Private lessons in voice, piano, or other selected instruments
- Essentials of conducting, baton technique, conducting literature, rehearsal procedure, and conducting practice
- Chromatic practices, jazz theory, and compositional techniques that were used in the past
- Developing listening skills for various musical characteristics
BA in Music courses
- This degree requires you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 42 gen ed credits, 28 core Music credits, 17 specialization credits, and 33 elective credits.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS103 | Applied Music | 0-2 credits |
| MUS 302 | Music Theory & Analysis IV | 3 credits |
| MUS 319 | Conducting | 3 credits |
| MUS 324 | Music Technology | 1 credits |
| MUS 325 | Music History and Literature | 3 credits |
How much does a BA in Music cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By Semester | By Year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
How does the Music faculty support their students?
All faculty have firsthand experience in the field, whether it’s all music education faculty having experience working in public schools, or the fact that all faculty are involved in music making in the Quad Cities region. This love of music translates into their courses, creating a safe and exciting environment for students to explore their passions. They will push you to continue to improve as a musician and ask you to look at music from a variety of perspectives.
Music program faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for BA in Music?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Music scholarships
The Music Department awards more than $170,000 in annual scholarships to talented Music students who audition, and the grant is renewable every year through graduation. We encourage potential music majors and minors to audition, but we offer a significant number of Music scholarships to talented students majoring in other academic disciplines. Learn more about music scholarships.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Don’t let cost hinder your future
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education.
-Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa
What’s on campus for Music students?
We offer a multitude of performing groups: marching band, symphonic band, university chorale, chamber singers, jazz combo, Bella Voce, Bee Sharp, and STAMVOJA (vocal jazz ensemble). With the number and variety of our music ensembles, you'll be sure to find your place.
Perform as a soloist, in a small ensemble, in the Quad Cities community, or even internationally. Our students regularly perform with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra for live movie showings with orchestra and chorus; in 2017, the chamber singers toured Italy and Austria, and in 2019, the symphonic band traveled to Ireland. In 2023, chamber singers and symphonic band traveled to Greece! Our SAU marching band performs at home football games, playoffs, and community events.
The Quad Cities is home to a strong performing arts community, boasting many performance venues and festivals including River Music Experience, Quad City Symphony Orchestra, Bix Jazz Music Festival, Mississippi Blues Festival, Nova Singers, the Adler Theatre, and many more.
A strong foundation for your career
“St. Ambrose provided me with the knowledge and real-world experiences I needed as I began my career. The frequent real-world experiences provided to me helped me develop my teaching strategies, develop my confidence as an educator, and prepared me for my career.”
-Skylar DeCamp ‘20, BA in Music Education - Vocal Endorsement
What are the admission requirements for a BA in Music?
Here are the admissions requirements for our Music program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Music degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Bachelor of Arts in Music could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Audio/video producer and installer
- Gigging musician
- Pianist/accompanist
- Private lesson teacher
- Music director
Potential employment settings
- Schools/universities
- Religious organizations
- Traveling venues
- Private studio/home
- Theaters
Traits of a musician
- Leadership
- Discipline and dedication
- Critical listening skills
- Creativity
- Collaboration and communication
Industry facts
- The median wage for music directors and composers was $62,940 per year in 2022.
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
