B.M. in Music

The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) program at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers an immersive and intensive education in music, designed for students pursuing advanced performance, composition, and music education. This program is tailored for those who aim to develop their musical talents to a professional level, with a strong emphasis on both practical and theoretical aspects of music. The B.M. at FAU provides students with a comprehensive foundation in music, preparing them for careers in performance, education, and various other music-related fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.M. in Music at FAU is meticulously structured to cover essential areas of music. It includes core courses in music theory, history, and aural skills, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of music’s fundamentals. Performance is a central component, with students participating in individual lessons, ensemble work, and recitals to hone their skills. Specialized coursework in areas such as composition, music technology, and conducting is also available, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. The program's rigorous academic and practical training equips students with the skills needed to excel in various professional settings.

Research Focus: The B.M. in Music program at FAU encourages engagement in music research and scholarly activities. Students have the opportunity to explore various research topics, including music theory, history, and ethnomusicology. Faculty members are involved in research projects that investigate musical traditions, compositional techniques, and the impact of music on society. Students can collaborate on research initiatives, participate in musicology conferences, and contribute to academic publications, fostering a deeper understanding of music and its applications.

Industry Engagement: FAU's B.M. in Music program emphasizes practical experience and industry engagement. Students have access to performance opportunities through university-sponsored concerts, recitals, and collaborations with local music organizations. The program also provides connections to industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events. These experiences help students build valuable relationships within the music industry and gain insights into various career paths, from performance and education to music production and management.

Global Perspective: The B.M. in Music at FAU incorporates a global perspective by exposing students to diverse musical traditions and practices from around the world. The program includes coursework and performance opportunities that explore various musical genres and cultural contexts. Students may also participate in study abroad programs or international music festivals, providing them with a broader understanding of global music trends and practices. This international exposure enhances their ability to work in a globalized music industry and appreciate the richness of different musical cultures.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 110.

Standardized Test Requirements:

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test): Overall score of 1220 is required.
• ACT (American College Testing): Overall score of 26 is required.

To support this mission, the university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities tailored to the needs of international students.

International Freshman Scholarships: FAU offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding international freshman applicants. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and standardized test scores. Awards can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

International Transfer Scholarships: International students transferring to FAU from other institutions can apply for transfer scholarships. These awards recognize academic accomplishments at the previous institution and can help offset the cost of tuition at FAU.

Diversity Scholarships: FAU values diversity and inclusion. The Diversity Scholarship is available to students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in their academic and extracurricular activities.

Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at FAU offer scholarships specific to their disciplines. International students are encouraged to explore opportunities within their respective fields of study.

Global Student Success Program Scholarships: FAU partners with the Global Student Success Program (GSSP) to offer conditional admission and scholarship opportunities to international students who need additional English language preparation before starting their degree programs.

Private Scholarships: FAU assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. This includes scholarships from foundations, organizations, and government programs in the students' home countries.

FAFSA for Eligible Non-Citizens: Some international students may be eligible to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as eligible non-citizens. This can potentially provide access to federal grants and loans.

Cultural and Exchange Scholarships: FAU participates in cultural exchange programs that offer scholarships to international students. These programs promote cultural understanding and academic exchange.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music (B.M.) program from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) are well-equipped to embark on a variety of professional careers in the music industry. The program's rigorous training in performance, theory, and music education prepares students for diverse roles within and beyond the traditional music industry. 

Professional Musician: B.M. graduates can pursue careers as professional musicians, performing solo or in ensembles across various genres and settings. Their advanced training in performance techniques and repertoire enables them to take on roles as concert soloists, orchestral musicians, or members of chamber groups, performing in concerts, recordings, and live events.

Music Educator: With a focus on pedagogy, graduates can become music educators, teaching music in primary and secondary schools. They may also work as private instructors, offering lessons in their area of expertise. The program’s emphasis on music theory, history, and pedagogical methods prepares them to effectively teach and inspire students of all ages.

Music Director and Conductor: B.M. graduates with strong leadership and organizational skills may choose careers as music directors or conductors. They oversee rehearsals and performances for orchestras, choirs, and other musical ensembles, selecting repertoire, guiding musicians, and ensuring high-quality performances.

Composer and Arranger: Graduates interested in composition can pursue careers as composers or arrangers, creating original music for various media, including film, television, video games, and live performances. Their training in music theory and composition allows them to craft engaging and innovative musical works.

Music Therapist: Those with an interest in the therapeutic aspects of music can become music therapists, using music to address emotional, cognitive, and physical needs in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community programs. The program's focus on practical skills and music therapy techniques supports this career path.

Music Producer: Graduates can work as music producers, overseeing the recording process for artists and bands. They manage studio sessions, collaborate with engineers and artists, and work on mixing and mastering tracks. Their background in music performance and technology provides a strong foundation for this role.

Arts Administrator: B.M. graduates can enter the field of arts administration, managing operations for music venues, festivals, and non-profit organizations. They handle event planning, marketing, and community outreach, leveraging their understanding of the music industry to support and promote artistic events.

Music Critic and Journalist: For those with a flair for writing, careers as music critics or journalists offer opportunities to review and write about music for publications, blogs, or media outlets. Graduates use their musical knowledge to provide insightful critiques and analyses of new releases and performances.

Sound Designer: Graduates interested in audio engineering and design can work as sound designers, creating and manipulating sound effects for media projects such as films, video games, and theatrical productions. Their skills in sound technology and production techniques are essential for this career.

Music Business Professional: A B.M. in Music also opens doors to various roles in the music business, including artist management, music marketing, and event promotion. Graduates can work with record labels, management firms, or music agencies, applying their industry knowledge to support and advance artists’ careers.