Overview

The Music programme at Western Michigan University provides a rigorous academic and artistic environment designed to elevate the lives of students through the power of sound. This bachelor degree focuses on music as a vital art form that transcends human emotion and fosters a deep sense of community within the cultural landscape.

Students must successfully complete a dedicated audition and testing process before gaining admission to the school. This ensures that all participants meet the high standards required for professional development. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare graduates for the global stage.

Why Music at Western Michigan University?

The School of Music is renowned for its distinguished reputation in the arts, extending far beyond the Kalamazoo campus. Students benefit from a variety of professional opportunities and high-calibre ensemble training that culminates in numerous public concerts and recitals. The university's performing groups have a significant international presence, having toured across the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America.

With nearly 4,500 concerts presented in recent years, the institution offers an unparalleled platform for performance. These events reach massive audiences, providing students with real-world experience in diverse settings. The facilities and faculty support a culture of excellence that prepares musicians for the demands of the modern industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 20525 per year
National fee: USD 20525 per year
Local fee: USD 16449 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in musical theory and practice. Modules may include:

Multimedia Arts Technology
Composition
Choral Education
Instrumental Education
Instrumental Performance
Keyboard Performance
Vocal Performance
Music Therapy
Jazz Studies

Careers with Music

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped to enter the professional world as versatile artists and educators. Many alumni find success as performers, private instructors, and classroom teachers. The skills gained during the course allow for flexible career paths within the creative industries and educational sectors.

Recent graduates have secured positions with a variety of prestigious organisations, including schools, theatres, and professional performing companies. Others work within private studios or as freelance musicians. The programme's strong emphasis on performance and pedagogy ensures that students are ready to contribute to the cultural enrichment of society.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Collegiate Singers

Marching Band

Concert Band

University Orchestra

University Chorale

Symphonic Band

Gold Company

Wind Symphony

Jazz Lab Band

Jazz Orchestra

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kalamazoo, United States

Disciplines

Music View 2676 other Bachelors in Music in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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

Copy of passport identification page

Proof of English language proficiency

Complete high school or post-secondary education transcripts

$100 non-refundable application fee

Proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU according to estimated cost of attendance

ACT or SAT Scores

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

20525 USD / year

≈ 20525 USD / year
Out-of-State

20525 USD / year

≈ 20525 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16449 USD / year

≈ 16449 USD / year

Additional Details

Local Summer Tuition: 3,768 International Summer Tuition: 4,711

Living costs

Kalamazoo

United States

1000 - 1500 USD / month

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

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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

Kalamazoo

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners