Overview

The Popular Music Studies programme at The City University of New York provides an immersive academic environment for students to explore the cultural and technical dimensions of modern music. This bachelor degree focuses on the evolution of musical genres and their impact on global society. Students engage with diverse perspectives to build a solid foundation in musicology and contemporary industry standards.

By choosing this path, learners benefit from a curriculum that balances historical context with practical insights into the music world. The university fosters a creative atmosphere where students can refine their analytical skills and develop a professional understanding of various musical traditions. This rigorous training prepares graduates for a wide range of roles within the creative arts sector.

Why Popular Music Studies at The City University of New York?

The City University of New York offers a unique vantage point for studying music due to its location in a global cultural hub. The institution provides access to extensive archival resources and modern facilities that support deep academic inquiry. Students learn from experienced faculty members who are actively involved in the musical landscape, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant to current trends.

The programme emphasises a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to connect music with sociology, history, and media studies. This broad perspective ensures that graduates are not only experts in music but also critical thinkers capable of navigating complex cultural environments. The public nature of the institution ensures a diverse student body, enriching the collaborative learning experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 620 per credit
National fee: USD 620 per credit
Local fee: USD 305 per credit

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Music Theory
History of Popular Music
Ethnomusicology
Music Technology
Songwriting
Music Business
Global Music Cultures
Performance Studies
Composition

Careers with Popular Music Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths within the music and entertainment industries. Many find success in roles such as music journalists, talent managers, or digital content creators for major media organisations. The analytical skills gained during the degree also support careers in arts administration and cultural consultancy.

The degree provides a strong foundation for those looking to work in music production, publishing, or marketing. Graduates often secure positions with record labels, broadcasting companies, and live event organisers. Additionally, the programme prepares students for further postgraduate research in musicology or related humanities disciplines, allowing for continued academic specialisation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Harmony

Ear Training

Music Production

Fretboard Skills

Minstrelsy to Rock 'n' Roll

1960s to Today

Popular Music Composition

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-09-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00 , National

More details

These are priority deadlines

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

New York City, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2691 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

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TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

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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.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The admissions review focuses on identifying your academic strengths as they relate to your intended major, and we will be looking for the following:

Overall academic average (GPA)

Performance in core academic subjects such as math, English and science.

SAT or ACT scores (if submitted)

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

18600 USD / year

≈ 18600 USD / year
Out-of-State

18600 USD / year

≈ 18600 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9150 USD / year

≈ 9150 USD / year

Additional Details

Residents: $3,465 per semester

Living costs

New York City

United States

1819 - 3968 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 Popular Music Studies.

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

New York City

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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