Areas of Study - Department of Performing Arts - Music - Christopher Newport University

Department of Performing Arts - Music

Areas of Study

We offer two degrees:

  • Bachelor of music
    Program: music
    Major: music

  • Bachelor of arts
    Program: fine and performing arts
    Major: music

Students pursuing the bachelor of music (BM) degree can pursue a concentration in composition, performance, pre-certification choral or pre-certification instrumental. Pre-certification graduates continue on to CNU's master of arts in teaching (MAT) program with a concentration in choral music education or instrumental music education that leads to teacher certification (students training to become teachers must pursue the dual degree program BM/MAT in order to earn teacher certification).

Acceptance into the music programs is highly competitive. In addition to applying for admission to Christopher Newport, you must also apply to the music program and complete an entrance audition.

Bachelor of music

The primary emphasis is on developing the skills and knowledge to function as a teacher, performer or composer. Areas of concentration include choral and instrumental pre-certification, composition, and performance.

Bachelor of arts

Provides fundamental knowledge of written and aural skills, the history and development of music, and performance. The concentration in music studies serves students seeking a broad program of general education rather than intense specialization in the undergraduate years. The concentration in creative studies is designed for those interested in music technology and interdisciplinary studies.

Christopher Newport is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

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