Music (BA) Program Overview

At Bluefield University, you can fulfill your dreams as a music major with a focus on music education, church music, or performance. Our immersive music degree program is designed to help you understand the world through sacred and classical works. You can choose a concentration in applied music for piano, church music, music education, or a general approach. Do you plan to major in something else, but want to study music? You can minor in music to study the basics of music theory and performance. Or choose the worship leadership minor to prepare for service as a worship leader.

With individually tailored lessons and practice spaces, the music program offers a supportive environment to nurture a love of music as you pursue your goals. You’ll receive personal guidance from faculty dedicated to your growth as a creative, Christ-centered musician. You can take advantage of the many opportunities to perform with student ensembles leading campus worship, or band and choir appearances at University and regional events. If your goal is to teach music classes, you can choose between instrumental or vocal music education as a major.

Are you ready to discover why music is an integral part of the Bluefield experience? Complete our information request form to begin your musical journey at Bluefield University.

Available Concentrations


Applied Music (Piano)

Applied music concentration students are challenged to develop their performance and teaching skills in piano. Most students are preparing for a performance career or one in higher education, so advanced courses provide a firm foundation for those career paths. Each student also presents two recitals, one as a junior and the second as a senior.

Church Music

The church music concentration prepares students for a professional vocational music ministry in the church. Specialized courses are complemented by Christian Studies courses for a solid theological foundation for those called to serve God through music ministry. Students also complete an internship in church music administration for practical experience.

General Music

The general music concentration gives music majors the most flexibility in their degree plans. The concentration provides an excellent foundation with core classes required of all music majors. Students may pursue a career in the music business, musical theatre, or as a private music teacher.

Music Education

Dream of teaching music? BU’s music education degree will ensure that you are prepared to lead the next generation. Choose from concentrations in vocal or instrumental music. Learn more about music education


The Academic Catalog is the student’s guide to all policies and procedures for Bluefield University.

About Us

Tuition: On-Campus Tuition & Fees
Next Start: August 16, 2023 (On-Campus)
Time to Complete: 4 years

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Courses & Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (BA)
General Education (45 Credits)

General Education requirements may be fulfilled in more specific courses for certain majors. Students seeking a BA degree must complete 6 credit hours of intermediate language studies.


  • Bluefield Core (9 Credits)
  • Composition (6 Credits)
  • Christian Studies (3 Credits)
  • Fine Arts (3 Credits)
  • History (6 Credits)
  • Literature (3 Credits)
  • Macroeconomics (3 Credits)
  • Math (3 Credits)
  • Science (4 Credits)
  • Social Science (3 Credits)
  • Speech (3 Credits)
Core Requirements (50 Credits)

  • Music Theory I, II, III, & IV (Alternating with Ear Training)
  • Ear Training I, II, III, & IV (Alternating with Theory)
  • Sophomore Review Seminar
  • Music History I
  • Music History II
  • Conducting I
  • Conducting II
  • Applied Study (15 Credits)
  • Ensembles (6 Credits)
  • Piano Proficiency I, II, III / Vocal Proficiency (Depending on Concentration)
  • Performing Arts Lab (6 Semesters)
  • Senior Recital (Depending on Concentration)
Concentrations (25 Credits)
    • Choose your Concentration (3 Available)


      • Concentration – Applied Music (Piano)
        • Piano Literature
        • Piano Pedagogy with Practicum
        • The Art of Accompanying with Practicum
        • Additional Applied Study (6 Credits)
        • Junior Recital
        • Senior Recital
        • General Music Electives (7 credits)
      • Concentration – Church Music
        • Intro to Church Music Ed
        • Worship Forms & Practices
        • Congregational Christian Song
        • Intro to Church Music Administration
        • Internship in Church Music Administration
        • Introduction to Ministry
        • Introduction to Christian Theology
        • Elective (1 Credit)
      • Concentration – General Music
        • General Music Electives (25 credits)
Total Credits: 120

Career opportunities available to graduates of this program include:

Music Instructor
Editorial Assistant
Marketing Assistant
Arts Administrator
Television Production Assistant

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Do I only apply once?

  • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate's Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

  • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

  • Log in to myBU, and under the "Student" tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

How long is a semester?

  • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

Is there an orientation?

  • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session that explains how to access courses, how to register for classes, and answers other questions.

Where can I find a course description?

Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

  • No. If a student decides to study at BU full time, BU is currently test-optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle.

Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

  • Classes are offered online, so a student can log-on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

  • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate's degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

  • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

How do transferring credits work?

  • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

  • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor's degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

  • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

 

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