Overview

The Music programme at Northern Illinois University provides an immersive environment for students to master the universal language of sound and expression. By joining this vibrant community within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, students engage with diverse musical traditions and modern techniques. The curriculum is designed to foster creativity while building the technical proficiency required for professional success in the arts.

Why Music at Northern Illinois University?

Students benefit from a dedicated School of Music that offers specialised facilities and a community of talented peers. The university provides significant financial support through automatic merit scholarship consideration for eligible applicants. Additionally, the faculty consists of experienced professionals who guide students through various specialisations, including jazz studies and instrumental music. The institution's focus on value ensures that students receive high-quality conservatory-style training at an affordable cost.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 10742 per semester
National fee: USD 5371 per semester
Local fee: USD 5371 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum varies depending on whether a student pursues the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Music track. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Musical Composition
Sound Recording and Reproduction
Jazz
Chamber Music
Musical Theater
Music Education

Careers with Music

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for diverse roles within the global arts sector and education systems. Alumni frequently secure positions as professional musicians, band directors, and choral instructors. Many also pursue academic careers as professors or private tutors in piano and guitar. The creative and communication skills developed during the course also allow for transitions into broader media and entertainment industries.

Prominent employers of former students include prestigious organisations such as Disney, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. Graduates have also found success at various educational institutions, including the Interlochen Center for the Arts and several major public school districts. The programme provides robust career support resources, including resume assistance and leadership courses, to help students navigate the professional landscape.

Programme Structure

Courses Included:

Introduction to Music Education/Field Experience in Public Schools
Elementary General Music Methods
Clinical Experience in Elementary General Music
Middle School/Junior High Music Methods
Secondary Music Methods
Clinical Experience in Middle School/Junior High Music

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-08-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

DeKalb, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2689 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Apply for general admission to NIU.
Be mindful of priority academic scholarship deadlines.
You will need to have applied to NIU by the time of your audition. You are not required to have been admitted for general admission, but we encourage you to apply early.
Apply and Audition for the School of Music.
Complete your supplemental application.
Submit two letters of letters of recommendation.
Familial references are not accepted. References will be emailed a separate form directly upon the completion of this application. Please confirm with your references their willingness to complete this form prior to listing them. At least one reference should be able to speak to your musical capabilities, i.e. high school ensemble director, private lesson instructor, etc. Recommendation forms are due prior to auditions.
Register for your audition/interview.
Auditions are held in February.
Please review studio audition requirements.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

21484 USD / year

≈ 21484 USD / year
Out-of-State

10742 USD / year

≈ 10742 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10742 USD / year

≈ 10742 USD / year

Additional Details

Local: $5,115.34 per semester National and International: $10,230.68 per semester

Living costs

DeKalb

United States

1100 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

DeKalb

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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