An online bachelor’s degree in music can help you transform your passion for music into a financially viable career. With on–demand streaming and music apps, individuals around the world consume more music than ever before. According to Forbes, Americans listened to approximately 32 hours of music per week in 2017, an increase from 23.5 hours per week in 2015. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that as the digital marketing industry expands, marketing agencies need more composers to write music for commercials and other advertising videos. The BLS projects that jobs for composers and music directors will increase 6% between 2016 and 2026, about the average rate for all jobs in the United States.
Online Bachelor’s in Music Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Music Degree Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Valley City State University |
Valley City, ND Apply Now | ||
| 3 |
Texas State University |
San Marcos, TX Apply Now | ||
| 4 |
Berklee College of Music |
Boston, MA Apply Now | ||
| 5 |
University of Maine at Augusta |
Augusta, ME Apply Now | ||
End of list, bravo!
Choosing an Online Music Program
Because the music industry spans so many different occupations and genres, academic programs in this field typically allow students to specialize in a specific area. Common concentrations include composition, music production, music business, music education, and songwriting. Many programs allow students to take 20 or more elective credits so they can further tailor the degree to their interests.
Other requirements may include participating in a senior recital, writing a thesis, or composing an original piece of music.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Music Program?
Online music bachelor’s degrees vary significantly depending on the school. However, most programs cover core concepts and skill sets, including music theory, basic conducting, and music history. The section below lists more information.
Curriculum for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Music
- Music Theory
- Music theory classes focus on reading, transcribing, composing, and analyzing music. Since most musicians and other professionals in the field rely heavily on music theory, these classes prepare students for a variety of careers.
- Piano Techniques
- This class provides basic skills in piano scales, chords, sight–reading, harmonization, and improvisation. These skills prepare students for careers as composers, teachers, directors, producers, songwriters, and professional performers.
- History of Music
- History of music classes examine music from ancient to modern times. Students learn about aesthetics and concepts specific to various time periods and regions. The course prepares students for careers in music education and composition.
- Basic Ear Training
- Students in this course learn how to identify and notate basic rhythms, pitches, and harmonies. The class also emphasizes other skills necessary to composing and performing, including identifying different time and key signatures.
- Basic Harmony
- This class helps students grow into more creative and skilled performers, composers, arrangers, and producers. Topics of study include harmony in contemporary music, chord progression, and improvisation.
Careers with a Bachelor’s in Music
Graduates with online music bachelor’s degrees may pursue several different career paths. Many music majors continue their studies and earn graduate degrees in music or a related field. Others find jobs as music teachers for elementary and secondary schools, voice coaches, or instructors for specific instruments. A few music majors work as professional musicians and performers; these individuals play for symphonies and orchestras, for smaller bands, or for themselves as freelancers.
- Sound Engineering Technician
- Sound technicians work for radio stations, television studios, concert venues, recording studios, and film companies. They maintain and improve audio, video, and broadcasting equipment to ensure that events and recordings proceed smoothly. Sound technicians usually need an associate or bachelor’s degree.
- Median Annual Salary: $42,650
- Projected Growth Rate: 8%
- Composer
- Composers write music for film, television, marketing campaigns, professional musicians, operas, orchestras and symphonies, and other groups. While the education requirements for this occupation vary, many employers seek composers with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in music and composition.
- Median Annual Salary: $50,590
- Projected Growth Rate: 6%
- Musician
- Musicians perform for audiences, create recordings, rehearse with small and large ensembles, and spend several hours per week practicing their instrument or vocal skills. They often travel for performances. Many musicians who work for operas, symphonies, and other professional groups have at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Median Annual Salary: $56,000
- Projected Growth Rate: 6%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics