- Theory and/or Music History (6 hours)
- MUSC 1910 does not count towards these, but may be counted
toward an elective
- MUSC 1910 does not count towards these, but may be counted
- No more than 8 hours of ensemble
- No more than 10 hours in applied music
Program Highlights
CUSTOMIZE YOUR MUSICAL JOURNEY
Boost your career possibilities by exploring other passions while focusing on your musical studies
LEARN TO SERVE THROUGH MUSIC
Use your God-given talents to uplift others
GROW YOUR CONFIDENCE
Develop your skills with weekly 1:1 lessons and solo/ensemble performance opportunities
Want more information about this major?
Download a program guide with detailed information on the department, major and outcomes!
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I would absolutely recommend [Roberts]l. I had great memories here. My teachers definitely helped me grow as a musician. I’ve learned jazz theory which I still apply to this day.
How Much Will I Pay?
Total Program
Sticker Price for 2026-2027:
$55,781
Last year
100%
of full-time freshmen students who applied
for a scholarship received one
$23,345
average grants & scholarships package
for incoming freshman students last year
Roberts' Strategic Pillars
Online, Hybrid, and In-Person Programs In Rochester, NY
ANCHORED IN CHRISTIAN FAITH
You’ll be spiritually prepared for engagement in a diverse world.
CUSTOMIZED EDUCATIONAL PATHWAYS
Whatever your interests and circumstances, you’ll be equipped for your one-of-a-kind vocation.
READY TO
LEAD
You’ll be ready to lead, making meaningful contributions in your profession.
FLOURISHING PEOPLE & COMMUNITIES
Empowered to act in local and practical ways, you’ll make a difference in the communities where you live and work.
What Will I Learn?
Do you want to combine your love of music with another passion? This is the perfect major for you!
This degree specializes in helping you pursue other areas of interest alongside music, preparing you for a variety of careers. Flexible and customizable options open up the ability to double-major in a number of disciplines. Enjoy multiple performance opportunities.
You’ll learn more than just musical skills. We care about our students as individuals. The mentorship you’ll receive at Roberts will help you become everything God wants you to be.
Become equipped to lead the way and faithfully steward your talents. Are you ready to go all in?
You’ll study:
Your primary and optional secondary instruments
How to perform in an ensemble
Theory, aural skills, and music history
Basic conducting
Fundamentals of disciplined practice and musical development
A broad array of liberal arts courses
Career Outlook
Here are just a few successes our graduates have achieved:
Traditional Careers
Arts management
Community, school, or university music & arts director
Composer/arranger
Director
Jazz musician
Music librarian
Private studio teacher
Studio musician
Worship leader
Youth minister
Graduate Schools
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
Columbia University in the City of New York
Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati
Nazareth College
Princeton Theological Seminary
Queen’s University
Roberts Wesleyan University
SUNY Brockport
Syracuse University
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of Rochester
Villanova University
Double your career possibilities with a double major.
Our students have gone on to get master’s degrees in fields like Music Therapy, Education, Performance, Math, and more.
Examples of Double Major Choices
Biochemistry
Communication
English
History
Math
Ministry
Physics
Psychology
Minor Options
Minor Requirements
Students wishing to graduate with a minor must complete at least 18 semester hours in a selected
discipline. Specific minor requirements are listed within the departmental sections of this catalog. In
order to earn a minor when some of the coursework is also required by their major, students must take
at least nine hours unique to the minor. In order for a transfer student to earn a minor offered by Roberts, the student must earn at least nine hours at Roberts.
Follow Your Calling At Summer Camp
Experience what it feels like to be a Roberts Wesleyan Redhawk! Spend up to two weeks on campus when you participate in one of our overnight Academic Summer Camps.
In addition to hands-on experiences in your field of choice, you'll also go on fun outings in Rochester, NY. Scholarships may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Put simply, the music industry is not going away.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of musicians, singers, directors, and composers is projected to grow from 2021 to 2031. Compared to all occupations, the projected growth for music careers is average.
In addition to that, being a musician is more than knowing how to sing or play an instrument. At Roberts, you’ll learn how to be a great teammate, how to express yourself creatively, and how to be disciplined. You’ll build a strong foundation of liberal arts education you can carry into any career.
Do you need a degree to be a musician?
While a degree isn’t necessarily required to work in the music industry, it has many benefits. Two of the most important benefits of going to school as a musician are mentorship and performance experience.
For instance, as a Bachelor of Music student, you’ll have structure, discipline, regular practice, and the guidance of professionals. We’ll help you develop mastery of your major instrument.
You’re more than just your musical skills -- we care about our students as individuals. The mentorship you’ll receive at Roberts will help you discern and follow God’s calling, both professionally and on a personal level.
What can I do with a music degree?
A Music B.A. degree from Roberts will prepare you for a variety of musical career paths. The flexible nature of this degree makes it easy to combine your love of music with another passion to broaden your possibilities.
For example, with just a Music B.A. degree, you could become a private studio teacher, a music and arts director, or a performer. Or you could double-major and apply your musical skills to the fields of Business Administration, Psychology, or even Mathematics. These are just a few examples of the flexibility this degree provides.
According to the US Bureau of Labor, the median wage for musicians and singers in 2023 was $31.14. For music directors and composers, this figure was $62,590 a year.
Naturally, the numbers will differ by area, type of position, and level of popularity.
Can I meet with a professor when I visit Roberts?
Yes! If you come to campus for an individual visit, you can meet individually with a professor to get an overview of the major and your individual questions answered. Our Discovery Day events typically include a Faculty & Services Expo, where you can meet your future professors.
Does Roberts Wesleyan University offer financial aid?
Yes! At Roberts, we’re dedicated to supporting you. Our Office of Student Financial Services is here to help you make the most of every financial aid opportunity available.
We provide financial assistance to 100% of our undergraduate students, so you can focus on following your calling with confidence.
