BA in Music Composition, North Central College

Naperville, Illinois

48 Months

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About this course

Studying music at North Central College offers a flexible and comprehensive experience, combining performance, music education, composition, and music technology. The program emphasizes developing your musicianship and creative expression through close faculty mentorship. You can explore performance in various settings—all while gaining a solid liberal arts foundation. The program encourages involvement in campus ensembles, performances, and internships, preparing students for careers as performers, music therapists, journalists, or for graduate studies. Whether you are passionate about performing live, composing, or exploring ethnomusicology, this program caters to diverse musical interests and career pathways.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students passionate about honing their musical skills while exploring diverse areas like performance, composition, and ethnomusicology. Its combination of individual mentorship, practical performance opportunities, and coursework in music technology and history makes it well-suited for students aiming for multiple pathways after graduation—including performing, teaching, or graduate studies. The program’s emphasis on active participation through ensembles, internships, and collaborations also ensures a well-rounded musical education, making it highly appealing for those committed to pursuing a serious career in music.

Specialisation

North Central College offers a range of specialized tracks within their music degree programs. These include the Bachelor of Arts in Music with options in general music experiences, Jazz Studies, and focused performance tracks such as Instrumental, Piano, and Vocal. Each specialization involves core courses, performance or composition lessons, and capstone projects tailored to the student’s interests. For example, the jazz track emphasizes improvisation, jazz harmony, and ensemble participation, while performance tracks focus intensively on primary instrument or voice, including applied lessons and recital requirements.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

37.80L

Living cost

Degree requirements

The B.A. in music requires completion of core courses such as music theory, aural skills, and music history, along with electives tailored to the student’s track—whether general music, jazz, or performance. Specific tracks demand auditions, recital performances, and proficiency in piano and a foreign language for the B.A. degree. Students pursuing performance tracks must complete applied lessons, ensemble participation, and capstone projects, with additional recital and concert attendance requirements laid out by the department. For non-performance students, coursework, research, and writing form a significant part of the curriculum.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates from North Central College’s music program find opportunities in various fields such as performance—vocal, instrumental, jazz, or musical theatre—composition, music education, and arts management. Many alumni have pursued graduate studies at institutions like Indiana University, Boston Conservatory, or Washington University. The program prepares students for careers as performers, music therapists, private instructors, and music librarians. The broad skills acquired also support careers in arts administration and media, giving graduates multiple pathways to succeed in the dynamic and diverse field of music.

FAQs

What are the audition requirements?

Auditions are required for entrance into performance tracks, including instrumental, vocal, and jazz. Specifics can be found in the program details, including auditions for applied lessons and ensemble participation.

Are there language requirements for the degree?

Yes, students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language for the B.A. degree, with additional details available in the department’s guidelines for degree completion.