Overview

The Music programme at California State University Monterey Bay offers a dynamic and practical approach to contemporary musical education. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that balances traditional performance with cutting-edge technical skills to prepare for the modern creative economy.

This degree is rooted in the liberal arts tradition, encouraging students to develop a well-rounded understanding of the field. You will explore a variety of disciplines including musicology, ethnomusicology, and acoustics. The curriculum ensures that every graduate possesses fundamental skills in critical listening, keyboard proficiency, and digital engraving.

A distinctive feature of the course is the focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.

Why Music at California State University Monterey Bay?

The institution provides a unique environment where students can engage in community involvement through dedicated service learning. This ensures that musical practice is connected to societal needs and real-world applications. The facilities support a wide range of activities, from high-end audio production to traditional ensemble rehearsals.

Teaching at this university is characterised by a balance of independent and collaborative projects. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates moral and ethical analysis into the study of music production and consumption. This holistic approach ensures graduates are not only skilled performers but also thoughtful industry contributors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 6450 per year
National fee: USD 6450 per year
Local fee: USD 6450 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Music Fundamentals
Diatonic Harmony
Chromatic Harmony
Advanced Chromatic Harmony
Musicianship
Keyboard
Proseminar
Writing About Music
Measuring Music
Community Involvement Service Learning
Senior Capstone
Audio Production
Mixing & Editing
Music and Audio Programming
Sonic Data Science
Sound Art Practicum
Music Production & Artistic Development
Music of Mexico
Arts Management and Music Business Ethics
Video Game Music
Reflections on America
Sound for Screen
Field Studies
Advanced Audio Production
American Musical Theatre

Careers with Music

Graduates are prepared for a wide array of professional paths within the commercial, independent, and community sectors. Common career destinations include roles in performance, acoustic composition, and electronic media scoring. The technical training also supports careers in sound engineering and audio programming.

Beyond creative production, the programme equips students for roles in music education and arts management. Graduates may find employment with recording studios, film production companies, or educational institutions. The focus on business ethics and marketing also prepares students for entrepreneurial ventures in the music industry.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music

Diatonic Harmony

Chromatic Harmony

Advanced Chromatic Harmony

Musicianship

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Seaside, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2679 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.4

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Equivalent of a 2.40 Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale in high school

High school diploma equivalent or certificate of graduation

Official high school transcript (official record of marks/scores/grades)

National Test Scores (if required by home country)

SAT or ACT scores required for students who graduate from a US high school or a US accredited international school

Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) credit accepted but not required

English language proficiency

Have completed the A-G requirements with grades of C- or better.

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

6450 USD / year

≈ 6450 USD / year
Out-of-State

6450 USD / year

≈ 6450 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6450 USD / year

≈ 6450 USD / year

Additional Details

Nonresident Tuition: $396 per semester unit. (In addition to basic tuition fees and other systemwide fees charged all students)

Living costs

Seaside

United States

1100 - 1600 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

Seaside

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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