Course Overview!

The Bachelor of Music program at California State University, Los Angeles offers comprehensive professional preparation for students aiming for careers in music education, performance, composition, or jazz studies. The curriculum balances artistic development with practical skills needed by music professionals. Lower-division courses focus on music theory, literature, and applied studies, while upper-division courses delve into advanced concepts in theory, music history, performance, and specialized career preparation within the chosen option. All options (except Music Education) require a junior recital, and all options necessitate a senior recital and participation in ensembles alongside applied music instruction. A piano proficiency examination (MUS 2033) is mandatory for graduation.

Course Structure

The Bachelor of Music program is structured around a core curriculum (45 units) including music theory, history (Western classical music), musicianship, class piano instruction, lower division applied music, and ensemble performance. Students then choose one of five options: Composition, Jazz Studies, Performance, Music Education (Pre-Credential), or Commercial Music. Each option has specific required courses, applied music studies, ensemble participation, and recital requirements (junior and/or senior recitals). The Music Education option includes additional requirements for the California Single Subject Credential in Music. The total number of units required for the degree varies slightly among options, ranging from approximately 82 to 87 units. The curriculum includes courses like Introduction to Music Technology, History of Western Classical Music, Career Planning, World Musics, and various applied music courses (Strings, Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion, Voice, or Piano).