M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
Bachelor of Music (B.M.)
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
George Mason University (GMU), located in the United States, offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Music (B.M.) program designed to provide students with a rigorous education in music performance, composition, theory, and musicology. The program emphasizes artistic excellence, creative expression, and scholarly inquiry, preparing students for careers as performers, educators, composers, scholars, and arts administrators in today's dynamic and diverse musical landscape.
Curriculum: The Bachelor of Music program at GMU features a diverse and flexible curriculum tailored to meet the needs and interests of aspiring musicians. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of musical genres and styles, including classical, jazz, world music, popular music, and electronic music. The curriculum typically includes coursework in music theory, ear training, music history, ensemble performance, private lessons, and elective courses in specialized areas such as composition, conducting, music technology, and pedagogy.
Research Focus: While the primary focus of the Bachelor of Music program at GMU is on artistic practice and performance, students also have opportunities to engage in scholarly research and creative inquiry. Faculty members and students collaborate on research projects exploring diverse aspects of music history, theory, performance practice, composition techniques, and interdisciplinary intersections with fields such as literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. Through research-focused coursework, independent study projects, and participation in conferences and symposia, students develop critical thinking skills and deepen their understanding of music as a scholarly discipline.
Industry Engagement: GMU's Bachelor of Music program fosters strong connections with the music industry to provide students with real-world learning experiences and professional development opportunities. Through partnerships with local arts organizations, music festivals, recording studios, and professional ensembles, students have access to internships, performance opportunities, masterclasses, and networking events that help them build valuable connections and gain insights into the professional music world. Additionally, faculty members often have extensive professional experience and industry connections, offering mentorship and guidance to students as they navigate their career paths.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected world, the Bachelor of Music program at GMU encourages students to explore diverse musical traditions and cultures from around the globe. Through coursework, performance opportunities, and guest artist residencies, students are exposed to a rich tapestry of musical styles and practices, gaining a broader understanding of the global music landscape. Additionally, study abroad programs and exchange opportunities allow students to immerse themselves in different cultural contexts, collaborate with musicians from diverse backgrounds, and expand their musical horizons. By embracing a global perspective, students develop a more inclusive and nuanced approach to music-making and cultural exchange.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 39170
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: Waiver
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 59 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong their chosen area of study.
Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
George Mason University (GMU), located in the United States, offers a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) program that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for diverse career paths in the music industry. Whether aspiring to perform on stage, compose music, teach, or work behind the scenes, graduates of GMU's B.M. program have a range of exciting career options available to them.
Professional Musician: Many graduates pursue careers as professional musicians, performing in orchestras, chamber ensembles, bands, choirs, or as soloists. They may specialize in classical, jazz, pop, rock, or other genres, honing their craft through performances, recordings, and collaborations with other musicians. Professional musicians may also work as session musicians, recording artists, or touring performers, sharing their passion for music with audiences worldwide.
Music Educator: Another common career path for graduates of GMU's B.M. program is to become music educators. Music educators work in schools, colleges, conservatories, community centers, and private studios, teaching music theory, instrumental or vocal technique, ensemble performance, music history, and music appreciation. They play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of musicians and fostering a lifelong love of music in students of all ages.
Composer/Arranger: Graduates with a talent for composition and arrangement may pursue careers as composers or arrangers. They create original music for a variety of contexts, including film, television, video games, advertising, theater, dance, and concert performance. Composers may also collaborate with performers, directors, and producers to realize their artistic visions and bring their music to life through live performances or recordings.
Arts Administrator: For those interested in the business side of the music industry, careers in arts administration offer opportunities to work behind the scenes in arts organizations, cultural institutions, record labels, artist management agencies, and performing arts venues. Arts administrators may be involved in areas such as marketing, fundraising, event planning, artist management, programming, and arts advocacy, helping to support and promote the arts within their communities.
Music Therapist: Another rewarding career option for graduates is to become music therapists. Music therapists use music as a therapeutic tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages and abilities. They work in healthcare settings, schools, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and mental health facilities, designing and implementing music-based interventions to improve clients' well-being and quality of life.
