Music Sacred Heart University

Overview

The Music programme at Sacred Heart University offers a dynamic environment where students develop professional expertise in performance, education, and audio engineering. This Bachelor of Arts degree integrates deep theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure graduates are prepared for the modern creative economy.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances 36 core credits in music theory and history with 12 credits of focused concentration. This structure allows individuals to tailor their education toward either professional performance or the technical aspects of music production, fostering both artistic and technical mastery.

The learning environment encourages creative expression as a vital component of personal and intellectual growth.

Why Music at Sacred Heart University?

The institution provides access to world-class faculty and accomplished professionals who bring industry experience directly into the classroom. Students train in state-of-the-art production facilities, labs, and studios, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest digital technologies used across the global media landscape.

The School of Performing Arts supports nearly 1,000 students, offering a vibrant community with instrumental and choral ensembles of varying styles. Distinctive features include private lessons on 20 different instruments and unique international performance opportunities in locations such as Italy, Ireland, and Spain.

Facilities include dedicated music classrooms with grand pianos, a specialised piano lab for keyboard skills, and multiple practice rooms. Performances and recitals are held in prestigious venues like the Edgerton Centre for the Performing Arts, the SHU Community Theatre, and the WSHU Broadcast Centre.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 26045 per semester
• National fee: USD 26045 per semester
• Local fee: USD 25042 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build foundational skills while allowing for specialised electives in areas such as musical theatre and media production. Modules may include:

• Music Theory
• Composition
• General Musicianship
• Music History
• Arranging
• Orchestration
• Improvising
• Conducting
• Music Performance
• Music Recording
• Audio Production
• Keyboard Skills

Careers with Music

Graduates are equipped with a broad range of communication and problem-solving skills applicable to numerous roles within the arts and media sectors. The explosion of digital content has expanded opportunities beyond the stage into video games, streaming services, and commercial advertising.

Common career paths for alumni include roles as performers, music educators, audio engineers, and composers. Many graduates also find success as music directors, repertoire agents, or music executives within major production companies and cultural institutions.

The programme prepares students for employment in diverse organisations such as arts councils, schools, television networks, and film studios. Additionally, the rigorous academic foundation provides an excellent platform for those wishing to pursue graduate degrees or careers in public relations and arts management.