Choosing the right music degree can feel like navigating a complex score. Whether you're aiming to become a virtuoso performer, a sound engineer, or a music educator, understanding the different technical degree names in music is crucial. This guide breaks down the various options, helping you find the perfect fit for your passion and career aspirations. So, let's dive in and decode the world of music degrees!

Bachelor's Degrees in Music

The first step in many musical journeys is the pursuit of a Bachelor's degree. These undergraduate programs typically last four years and provide a broad foundation in music theory, history, and performance. However, within the realm of Bachelor's degrees, you'll find several specialized options. Let's explore some of the most common ones:

Bachelor of Music (BM)

The Bachelor of Music (BM) is arguably the most prevalent and professionally oriented undergraduate music degree. It's designed for students who aspire to a career as a performer, composer, or music educator. The curriculum is heavily focused on musical training, with a significant portion dedicated to applied music study (private lessons on your instrument or voice), ensemble performance, music theory, and music history. Within a BM program, you'll often find further specializations, such as:

• BM in Performance: This track emphasizes developing your skills as a performer. You'll spend countless hours practicing, performing in ensembles, and honing your technique. Expect rigorous performance evaluations and opportunities to showcase your talent.
• BM in Composition: If you have a knack for writing music, a BM in Composition might be your calling. This program focuses on developing your compositional skills through coursework in music theory, orchestration, counterpoint, and electronic music. You'll have opportunities to write for various ensembles and potentially have your works performed.
• BM in Music Education: For those passionate about sharing their love of music with others, a BM in Music Education is the ideal path. This program combines musical training with pedagogical coursework, preparing you to teach music in elementary, middle, or high schools. You'll learn about teaching methods, classroom management, and curriculum development.

Choosing the right BM specialization depends on your career goals. Aspiring performers should opt for the Performance track, while budding composers should choose Composition. If your dream is to inspire the next generation of musicians, Music Education is the way to go. Remember to research the specific requirements and curriculum of each specialization at different universities, as they can vary significantly.

Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA in Music)

The Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA in Music) offers a more liberal arts-focused approach to music study. While it still includes core music courses like theory and history, it also allows for greater flexibility to explore other academic disciplines. A BA in Music is a good option for students who want a broad education with a strong emphasis on music, or for those who are considering a double major in music and another field. The BA program typically requires fewer performance-based courses compared to the BM, giving students more time to pursue other interests.

A BA in Music can be a stepping stone to various career paths, including music journalism, arts administration, music therapy (with further training), or even careers outside of music altogether. It provides a solid foundation in music while allowing you to develop a well-rounded skill set applicable to diverse fields.

Bachelor of Science in Music (BS in Music)

While less common than the BM and BA, the Bachelor of Science in Music (BS in Music) is offered at some universities, often with a focus on the scientific or technological aspects of music. This degree might incorporate courses in acoustics, music technology, computer music, or even music business. A BS in Music can be a great choice for students interested in the intersection of music and science or technology.

For example, a BS in Music with a focus on music technology could lead to careers in sound engineering, music production, or software development for music applications. The curriculum would likely include courses in digital audio workstations (DAWs), recording techniques, mixing and mastering, and programming.

Master's Degrees in Music

After completing a Bachelor's degree, many musicians pursue a Master's degree to further hone their skills and knowledge. Master's programs typically last two years and offer a more specialized and advanced level of study. Here are some common Master's degrees in music:

Master of Music (MM)

The Master of Music (MM) is the most common graduate degree in music. Similar to the BM, it's a professionally oriented degree designed for students seeking advanced training in performance, composition, conducting, or music education. The MM curriculum is highly focused on your chosen specialization, with a strong emphasis on performance, research, and creative work.

• MM in Performance: This track provides advanced training for aspiring soloists, orchestral musicians, and chamber musicians. You'll work closely with renowned faculty, perform in masterclasses, and participate in high-level ensembles. Expect rigorous performance expectations and opportunities to compete in national and international competitions.
• MM in Composition: This program is for composers who want to refine their compositional voice and develop their skills in writing for a variety of ensembles and media. You'll have opportunities to collaborate with performers, attend workshops with guest composers, and have your works premiered.
• MM in Conducting: If you aspire to lead orchestras, choirs, or bands, an MM in Conducting is the path for you. This program focuses on developing your conducting technique, score study skills, and rehearsal strategies. You'll have opportunities to conduct ensembles under the guidance of experienced conductors.
• MM in Music Education: This track is designed for music educators who want to advance their knowledge of teaching methods, curriculum development, and research in music education. You'll explore current trends in music education and develop your leadership skills.

Master of Arts in Music (MA in Music)

The Master of Arts in Music (MA in Music) is a more research-oriented graduate degree. It's a good option for students interested in music history, music theory, ethnomusicology, or other academic areas of music study. The MA in Music curriculum typically includes coursework in research methods, music analysis, and historical studies, culminating in a thesis or research project.

An MA in Music can lead to careers in musicology, music librarianship, or teaching at the college level. It can also serve as a stepping stone to a doctoral degree.

Master of Science in Music Technology (MS in Music Technology)

For those fascinated by the intersection of music and technology, a Master of Science in Music Technology (MS in Music Technology) is an excellent choice. This degree focuses on the technical aspects of music production, sound design, and digital audio. The curriculum typically includes courses in audio engineering, digital signal processing, acoustics, and computer music.

An MS in Music Technology can lead to careers in sound engineering, music production, game audio, or software development for music applications. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to design and implement cutting-edge audio technologies.

Doctoral Degrees in Music

The highest level of academic achievement in music is the doctoral degree. These programs are highly selective and require a significant commitment of time and effort. Doctoral degrees are typically pursued by students who aspire to careers as university professors, researchers, or leading experts in their field. Here are two common doctoral degrees in music:

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) is a performance-based doctoral degree. It's designed for students who want to achieve the highest level of artistry in their chosen field, whether it's performance, composition, or conducting. The DMA curriculum typically includes advanced performance study, dissertation recitals or compositions, and coursework in music theory and history.

A DMA is the terminal degree for performers, composers, and conductors. It qualifies you to teach at the university level and pursue a career as a leading artist in your field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Music (PhD in Music)

The Doctor of Philosophy in Music (PhD in Music) is a research-oriented doctoral degree. It's designed for students who want to make original contributions to the field of music through scholarly research. The PhD in Music curriculum typically includes coursework in research methods, music theory, music history, and ethnomusicology, culminating in a dissertation that presents original research.

A PhD in Music is the terminal degree for music scholars. It qualifies you to teach at the university level, conduct research, and publish scholarly articles and books.

Other Technical Degree Options

Beyond the traditional Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees, there are other technical degree names in music that cater to specific interests and career goals. These include:

• Associate of Arts in Music (AA in Music): A two-year degree that provides a foundation in music theory, history, and performance. It can be a stepping stone to a Bachelor's degree.
• Associate of Science in Music Technology (AS in Music Technology): A two-year degree that focuses on the technical aspects of music production and sound engineering.
• Diploma in Music: A certificate program that provides focused training in a specific area of music, such as performance or composition.

Choosing the Right Degree

Selecting the right music degree is a personal decision that depends on your individual goals, interests, and talents. Consider the following factors when making your choice:

• Your Career Aspirations: What kind of career do you envision for yourself in the music industry? Do you want to be a performer, composer, teacher, researcher, or something else?
• Your Strengths and Interests: What are you good at, and what do you enjoy doing? Are you a natural performer, a gifted composer, or a passionate scholar?
• The Curriculum and Faculty: Research the specific curriculum and faculty at different universities. Do they offer the courses and resources you need to succeed in your chosen field?
• The Cost and Location: Consider the cost of tuition and living expenses, as well as the location of the university. Can you afford to attend your dream school, and are you willing to relocate?

Final Thoughts

Navigating the world of technical degree names in music can be overwhelming, but with careful research and consideration, you can find the perfect path to pursue your musical passion. Remember to explore your options, talk to current students and faculty, and trust your instincts. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your dreams in the exciting and rewarding world of music! Good luck, guys!