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Department of Music at Western Kentucky University
The Department of Music promotes the study and experience of music in its broadest
sense: preparing artist teachers and performers, enhancing creativity and the human
spirit, and enriching the quality of life on campus, in the region, and in our global
community. Western Kentucky University has been a fully accredited member of the National
Association of Schools of Music since 1948.
A large part of the department’s mission is the preparation of music teachers and
professional musicians. Students with broad musical interests may select a music major
or minor within a diversified liberal arts program. Music degree programs provide
for the development of basic musicianship through conceptual understanding of musical
properties and their interrelationships, relevant opportunities for listening, performing,
composing, and scholarship, and the acquisition of a repertory representative of various
cultures and historical periods. Competencies in various areas and at varying levels
appropriate to each program of music concentration are developed through a sequence
of studies and assessments.
The Bachelor of Arts, major in Music, is a Liberal Arts degree that allows for a strong liberal arts education with a non-professional emphasis in music that can be combined with other fields of study such as: advertising, art, business, communications, English, foreign languages, history, journalism, marketing, philosophy, psychology, religion, and sciences. WKU students earning this degree have moved on to graduate study in Music (history, theory/composition, performance), Performing Arts Management, medical school, retail and banking positions, and university staff positions in admissions, graduate studies, development, and alumni relations.
The major in music (liberal arts) requires 36-48 hours of music (at least 18-24 of these must be at the upper-division 300- & 400-level) and leads to the Bachelor of Arts degree. The 36 hour Music-General program requires a second major or minor. The 48 hour Music-Extended program does not require a second major or minor. No music course with a grade below a “C” may be counted toward this major.
Requirements for Both Concentrations¹
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory and Literature
MUS 100
Theory I
2
MUS 101
Theory II
2
MUS 200
Theory III
2
MUS 201
Theory IV
2
MUS 110
Aural Theory I
1
MUS 111
Aural Theory II
1
MUS 210
Aural Theory III
1
MUS 211
Aural Theory IV
1
MUS 326
The History of Music I
3
MUS 327
The History of Music II
3
Conducting
MUS 317
Conducting I
2
Ensembles
6 semesters of appropriate major ensembles
6
Performance Attendance
MUS 155
Performance Attendance (6 semesters)
0
Total Hours
26
1
Colonnade Program: Students must take PHYS 130 and fulfill the University's World Language Requirement.
Electives: Select electives as needed to meet the 120 hour degree minimum.
Additional Requirements Specific to the Music-Extended (48 hour) Program
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Applied Music
MUS 153
Applied Music Principal (4 semesters)
8
MUS 353
Applied Music Principal (2 semesters)
4
MUS 160
Group Piano I 1
1
MUS 161
Group Piano II 1
1
Music Electives
8 hours selected from Theory/Composition, History/Literature, ensembles, applied lessons, conducting, methods, or techniques.
8
Total Hours
22
1
Students whose major/principal instrument is piano may substitute MUS 360 in place of group piano (MUS 160, MUS 161).
Additional Requirements Specific to the Music-General (36 hour) Program
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Applied Music
MUS 153
Applied Music Principal (2 semsters)
4
MUS 350
Applied Music Secondary (4 semesters)
4
MUS 160
Group Piano I 1
1
MUS 161
Group Piano II 1
1
Second Major or Minor
Courses and credit hours as defined by that program
Total Hours
10
1
Students whose major/principal instrument is piano may substitute MUS 360 in place of group piano (MUS 160, MUS 161).
Additional Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for ALL Music Programs
Applied Study: Students pursuing the Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts degree are required to enroll for private instruction in their principal or major instrument or voice and an appropriate major ensemble during each semester until requirements have been fulfilled.
Recital Performance: Students matriculating for the Bachelor of Music (music education and performance concentrations) must perform recitals as required by that degree program.
Piano Proficiency: All students pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree are required to pass a piano proficiency examination or complete the fourth semester of group piano. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music are required to pass a piano proficiency examination or complete the second semester of group piano.
Ensemble Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts: Students are required to participate in one major ensemble appropriate to their applied principal area for each semester for a total of 6 semesters.
Bachelor of Music: Performance concentration students are required to participate in an appropriate major ensemble each semester for a total of 8 semesters and complete 2 semesters of elective ensembles.
Bachelor of Music: Music Education concentration students are required to participate in an appropriate major ensemble each semester for a total of 7 semesters, excluding the semester in which student teaching is undertaken. Two semesters of ensembles in the opposite performance area are required for the integrated track.
Required Major Ensembles (linked to applied principal / major and degree program):
Winds and Percussion: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble or Marching Band (Marching Band is required for wind/percussion Music Education majors in the Fall until the 2 semester requirement is met).
Voice: Chorale OR Choral Society and University Singers OR Choral Society and Treble Choir.
Piano and Organ: Must declare and maintain Instrumental or Vocal status for the purpose of determining ensemble requirements
Guitar: Guitar Ensemble (for AB and Music Performance degrees). Guitarists on the Music Education Track must declare and maintain Instrumental or Vocal status for the purpose of determining major ensemble requirements and fulfill 7 semesters in that major ensemble category.
Strings: University Orchestra
Opposite Area (vocal) ensembles are Chorale, Choral Society, University Singers, Tenor and Bass Chorus, and Treble Chorus. At least one of the 2 required Opposite Area ensembles must be an SATB chorus.
Opposite area (instrumental) ensembles are Orchestra, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Concert Band.
Concert and Recital Attendance: Students majoring in music are required to attend 14 departmental and university-sponsored recitals and concerts each semester for a total of 6 to 8 semesters, as defined by the degree. Students register for MUS 155 to meet this requirement. The course is graded as pass/fail at the end of each semester.
Semester Juries and Capstone: Students majoring in music are required to perform for a jury panel at the end of each semester of Applied Study. A Capstone Project is required in the final semester of Applied Study (performance majors may elect to present their Capstone Project in the 7th semester).
Revisions of Requirements, Policies, and Regulations: The Department of Music updates the Student Handbook each year, and it can be found at http://www.wku.edu/music.
Finish in Four Plans
Finish in Four Plan - Music, Extended Concentration (583)
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
Colonnade: Social & Behavioral Science (E-SB)
3
MUS 120 (for majors, E-SB)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
COMM 145 (F-OC)
3
2nd Major/Minor/Elective Course
3
16
16
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
Ensemble (Major)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
Elective MUS Course/Ensemble(s)
3
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
ENG 200 (F-W2)
3
100-200 Minor or Elective Course
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
15
15
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Elective MUS Course/Ensemble(s)
3
Elective MUS Course/Ensemble(s)
1
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
100/200 Minor or Elective Course
3
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
100/200 Minor or Elective Course
3
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
100/200 Minor or Elective Course
3
15
15
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
Elective MUS Course/Ensemble(s)
2
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
Elective MUS Course/Ensemble(s)
2
300/400 Minor or Elective Course
3
14
14
Total Hours 120
Finish in Four Plan - Music, General Concentration (583)
The Bachelor of Music is a professional degree with concentrations in Music Education and Performance. The performance concentration provides preparation for graduate study in music performance as well as preparing for careers as college studio teachers and/or professional performers as soloists or members of professional ensembles: opera, chorus, chamber ensemble, orchestra, band, service groups. The music education concentration provides preparation for Music Teacher Certification and graduate study. Students earning this degree are preparing for careers as public/private school teachers, private studio teachers, and/or pursuing additional study at the graduate level.
Requirements for the Music Education Concentration ALL Tracks (Integrated, Vocal & Instrumental)
The Music Education Concentration offers tracks leading to three distinct teaching certifications: Integrated track (instrumental or vocal focus) which leads to certification for Teaching Music P-12 and requires 75 hours in music; Instrumental track which leads to certification for Teaching Instrumental Music P-12 and requires 70 hours in music; Vocal track that leads to certification for Teaching Vocal Music P-12 and requires 70 hours in music. All tracks require 25 hours in professional education and certain additional classes prescribed within the general education component. No minor or second major is required. No music course (MUS) with a grade below a “C” may be counted toward this major. Note: each track has additional requirements (see listings below)
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory and Literature
MUS 100
Theory I
2
MUS 101
Theory II
2
MUS 200
Theory III
2
MUS 201
Theory IV
2
MUS 110
Aural Theory I
1
MUS 111
Aural Theory II
1
MUS 210
Aural Theory III
1
MUS 211
Aural Theory IV
1
MUS 304
Form and Analysis
2
MUS 326
The History of Music I
3
MUS 327
The History of Music II
3
Applied Music
MUS 153
Applied Music Principal (4 semesters)
8
MUS 353
Applied Music Principal (3 semesters)
6
MUS 338
DIR Independent Study (Senior Recital)
1
Group Piano
MUS 160
Group Piano I 1
1
MUS 161
Group Piano II 1
1
MUS 260
Group Piano III 1
1
MUS 261
Group Piano IV 1
1
Performance Attendance
MUS 155
Performance Attendance (7 semesters)
0
Conducting
MUS 317
Conducting I
2
MUS 318
Conducting II
2
Ensembles
7 semesters of appropriate major ensembles
7
Music Education
MUS 214
String Techniques
1
MUS 312
Teaching Music in the Primary Grades
3
MUS 412
Teaching Music in the Middle School
3
Total Hours
57
1
Students whose major/principal instrument is piano may substitute MUS 360 in place of group piano (MUS 160, MUS 161, MUS 260, MUS 261).
Professional Education Requirements
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
EDU 250
Discover Teaching: Introduction to Teacher Education
3
PSY 310
Educational Psychology: Development and Learning
3
EDU 350
Student Diversity and Differentiation
3
EDU 360
Behavior and Classroom Management in Education
3
LTCY 497
Literacy Competencies for Middle and High School Classroom Teachers
0
EDU 489
Student Teaching Seminar
2,3
ELED 490
Student Teaching
5
MGE/SEC 490
Student Teaching
5
Total Hours
24-25
Additional Requirements Specific to the Music Education Concentration INTEGRATED Track
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory
MUS 405
Choral Arranging
3
or MUS 407
Orchestration and Band Arranging
Applied Music
MUS 152
Diction I for Voice Majors
1
or MUS 162
Group Voice
Music Education
MUS 215
Brass Techniques
1
MUS 315
Clarinet and Saxophone Techniques
1
MUS 316
Flute and Double Reed Techniques
1
MUS 319
Percussion Techniques
1
MUS 415
Choral Methods
3
MUS 416
Instrumental Methods
3
MUS 414
Choral Materials
2
or MUS 417
Marching Band Techniques
Ensembles
2 “opposite area” ensembles (see Additional Baccalaureate Degree Requirements)
2
Total Hours
18
Additional Requirements Specific to the Music Education Concentration VOCAL Track
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory
MUS 405
Choral Arranging
3
Applied Music
MUS 152
Diction I for Voice Majors
1
MUS 252
Diction II for Voice Majors
1
MUS 166
Group Guitar I
1
MUS 360
Accompanying
1
Music Education
MUS 414
Choral Materials
2
MUS 415
Choral Methods
3
Select one of the following guided elective techniques courses:
1
MUS 215
Brass Techniques
MUS 315
Clarinet and Saxophone Techniques
MUS 316
Flute and Double Reed Techniques
MUS 319
Percussion Techniques
Total Hours
13
Additional Requirements Specific to the Music Education Concentration INSTRUMENTAL Track
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory
MUS 407
Orchestration and Band Arranging
3
Voice
MUS 162
Group Voice
1
Music Education
MUS 215
Brass Techniques
1
MUS 315
Clarinet and Saxophone Techniques
1
MUS 316
Flute and Double Reed Techniques
1
MUS 319
Percussion Techniques
1
MUS 416
Instrumental Methods
3
MUS 417
Marching Band Techniques
2
Total Hours
13
Requirements for Bachelor of Music – Performance Concentration¹
The performance concentration has both an instrumental and a vocal track and leads to the Bachelor of Music degree. The instrumental track requires 69 hours in music. The vocal track requires two additional courses in Diction − MUS 152 and MUS 252 − for 71 hours in music. No minor or second major is required. The performance concentration is available in voice, piano, organ, classical guitar, and many standard band and orchestral instruments. No music course with a grade below “C” may be counted toward this major.
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Music Theory and Literature
MUS 100
Theory I
2
MUS 101
Theory II
2
MUS 200
Theory III
2
MUS 201
Theory IV
2
MUS 110
Aural Theory I
1
MUS 111
Aural Theory II
1
MUS 210
Aural Theory III
1
MUS 211
Aural Theory IV
1
MUS 304
Form and Analysis
2
MUS 326
The History of Music I
3
MUS 327
The History of Music II
3
MUS 430
Music Literature
3
Theory/Composition Electives
Select one of the following:
3
MUS 400
Advanced Music Theory
MUS 405
Choral Arranging
MUS 407
Orchestration and Band Arranging
Applied Composition
Applied Music
MUS 153
Applied Music Principal (4 semesters)
8
MUS 357
Applied Music Major (2 semesters)
6
MUS 338
DIR Independent Study (Junior Recital)
1
MUS 457
Applied Music Major (2 semesters)
6
MUS 338
DIR Independent Study (Senior Recital)
1
Group Piano
MUS 160
Group Piano I 2
1
MUS 161
Group Piano II 2
1
MUS 260
Group Piano III 2
1
MUS 261
Group Piano IV 2
1
Performance Attendance
MUS 155
Performance Attendance (8 semesters)
0
Pedagogy
MUS 310
Pedagogy for Performance Majors
3
Vocal Track Only
MUS 152
Diction I for Voice Majors
1
MUS 252
Diction II for Voice Majors
1
Conducting
MUS 317
Conducting I
2
Ensembles
8 semesters of appropriate major ensembles
8
4 semesters of appropriate chamber ensembles
4
MUS 371
Jazz Ensemble
MUS 374
Opera Theatre
MUS 379
Chamber Music
Total Hours
71
1
General Electives: Select 14 hours (12 must be in music/MUS; chamber music is strongly recommended).
Colonnade Program: Students are required to take PHYS 130 and fulfill the University's World Language Proficiency Requirement in one of the following languages: French, German, or Italian.
2
Students whose major/principal instrument is piano may substitute MUS 360 in place of group piano (MUS 160, MUS 161, MUS 260, MUS 261).
Additional Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for ALL Music Programs
Applied Study: Students pursuing the Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts degree are required to enroll for private instruction in their principal or major instrument or voice and an appropriate major ensemble during each semester until requirements have been fulfilled.
Recital Performance: Students matriculating for the Bachelor of Music (music education and performance concentrations) must perform recitals as required by that degree program.
Piano Proficiency: All students pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree are required to pass a piano proficiency examination or complete the fourth semester of group piano. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music are required to pass a piano proficiency examination or complete the second semester of group piano.
Ensemble Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts: Students are required to participate in one major ensemble appropriate to their applied principal area for each semester for a total of 6 semesters.
Bachelor of Music: Performance concentration students are required to participate in an appropriate major ensemble each semester for a total of 8 semesters and complete 2 semesters of elective ensembles.
Bachelor of Music: Music Education concentration students are required to participate in an appropriate major ensemble each semester for a total of 7 semesters, excluding the semester in which student teaching is undertaken. Two semesters of ensembles in the opposite performance area are required for the integrated track.
Required Major Ensembles (linked to applied principal / major and degree program):
Winds and Percussion: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble or Marching Band (Marching Band is required for wind/percussion Music Education majors in the Fall until the 2 semester requirement is met).
Voice: Required major ensembles are Chorale, or Choral Society and University Singers, OR Choral Society and Treble Choir.
Piano and Organ: Must declare and maintain Instrumental or Vocal status for the purpose of determining ensemble requirements
Guitar: Guitar Ensemble (for AB and Music Performance degrees). Guitarists on the Music Education Track must declare and maintain Instrumental or Vocal status for the purpose of determining major ensemble requirements and fulfill 7 semesters in that major ensemble category.
Strings: University Orchestra
Opposite Area (vocal) ensembles are Chorale, Choral Society, University Singers, Tenor and Bass Chorus, and Treble Chorus. At least one of the 2 required Opposite Area ensembles must be an SATB chorus.
Opposite area (instrumental) ensembles are Orchestra, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Concert Band.
Concert and Recital Attendance: Students majoring in music are required to attend 14 departmental and university-sponsored recitals and concerts each semester for a total of 6 to 8 semesters, as defined by the degree. Students register for MUS 155 to meet this requirement. The course is graded as pass/fail at the end of each semester.
Semester Juries and Capstone: Students majoring in music are required to perform for a jury panel at the end of each semester of Applied Study. A Capstone Project is required in the final semester of Applied Study (performance majors may elect to present their Capstone Project in the 7th semester).
Revisions of Requirements, Policies, and Regulations: The Department of Music updates the Student Handbook each year, and it can be found at http://www.wku.edu/music.
Finish in Four Plans
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Instrumental Track - Strings
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
MUS 162
1
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
EDU 250
3
COMM 145 (F-OC)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
16
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
PSY 310
3
17
17
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 312
3
MUS 412
3
MUS 316
1
MUS 416
3
MUS 304
2
MUS 315
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
EDU 350
3
17
15
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital)
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 319
1
MUS 407
3
MUS 344
1
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
17
13
Total Hours 129
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Instrumental Track - Winds & Percussion
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 347
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
EDU 250
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
MUS 162
1
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
COMM 145 (F-OC)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
16
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
MUS 347
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
PSY 310
3
17
17
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 312
3
MUS 412
3
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 316
1
MUS 315
1
MUS 347 or MUS 348
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 304
2
MUS 416
3
EDU 350
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
17
15
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital )
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 319
1
MUS 417
2
MUS 407
3
MUS 347 or MUS 348
1-2
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
19
13
Total Hours 131
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Vocal Track
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 152
1
MUS 252
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 370 (Chamber Choir)
1
MUS 370
1
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
COMM 145
3
EDU 250
3
17
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 166
1
PSY 310
3
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
15
17
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 312
3
MUS 415
3
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 304
2
MUS 405
3
MUS 360
1
MUS 412
3
EDU 350
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
17
17
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital)
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 414
2
MUS 340
1
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
18
13
Total Hours 131
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Integrated Track - Vocal
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 152
1
MUS 252 (Diction II)
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 370 (Chamber Choir)
1
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
EDU 250
3
15
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
PSY 310
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
MUS 348
1
17
18
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 312
3
MUS 415
3
MUS 316
1
MUS 416
3
MUS 304
2
MUS 315
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
MUS 412
3
EDU 350
3
MUS 405
3
17
18
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital)
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 319
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 414
2
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
19
13
Total Hours 134
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Integrated Track - Strings
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
MUS 162
1
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
EDU 250
3
COMM 145 (F-OC)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
16
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
PSY 310
3
18
18
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 344
1
MUS 344
1
MUS 316
1
MUS 315
1
MUS 304
2
MUS 415
3
MUS 312
3
MUS 412
3
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
MUS 416
3
EDU 350
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
17
18
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital)
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 319
1
MUS 338
1-3
MUS 407
3
MUS 344
1
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
19
13
Total Hours 136
Finish in Four Plan - Music Education, Integrated Track - Winds & Percussion
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
MUS 347
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 379 (Studio Ensemble)
1
MUS 162
1
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
PSY 100 (E-SB)
3
COMM 145 (F-OC)
3
EDU 250
3
16
17
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
MUS 347
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 326
3
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
MUS 340
1
MUS 340
1
MUS 214
1
MUS 215
1
HIST 101 or HIST 102 (F-SB)
3
PSY 310
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
PHYS 130 (E-NS, SL)
3
18
18
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
MUS 353
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 317
2
MUS 318
2
MUS 347 or MUS 348
1-2
MUS 348
1
MUS 316
1
MUS 315
1
MUS 304
2
MUS 412
3
MUS 312
3
MUS 415
3
ENG 300 (F-W2)
3
MUS 416
3
EDU 350
3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global) (K-LG)
3
17
18
Fourth Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 353
2
EDU 489
2-3
MUS 338 (Senior Recital)
1
SEC 490 or MGE 490
5-10
MUS 155
0
ELED 490
5-10
MUS 319
1
MUS 417
2
MUS 407
3
MUS 347 or MUS 348
1-2
Colonnade: Natural & Physical Science (E-NS)
3
Colonnade: Connections (Systems) (K-SY)
3
LTCY 497
0
EDU 360
3
19
13
Total Hours 136
Finish in Four Plan - Music, Performance - Instrumental
First Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 100
2
MUS 101
2
MUS 110
1
MUS 111
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 160
1
MUS 161
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
(Chamber MUS 371, 374, 379)
1
MATH 109 (F-QR)
3
MUS 120 (for majors E-AH)
3
COMM 145
3
ENG 100 (F-W1)
3
Colonnade: Social & Behavioral Science (E-SB)
3
14
16
Second Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 200
2
MUS 201
2
MUS 210
1
MUS 211
1
MUS 153
2
MUS 153
2
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
MUS 260
1
MUS 261
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
Ensemble (Chamber MUS 371, 374, 379)
1
MUS 327 (K-SC)
3
MUS 326
3
Elective Course
3
ENG 200 (F-AH)
3
World Language I (Italian, French, German)
3
14
16
Third Year
Fall
Hours
Spring
Hours
MUS 357
3
MUS 357
3
MUS 155
0
MUS 155
0
Music Ensemble (Major)
1
Ensemble (MAJOR)
1
MUS 304
2
MUS 338
1-3
MUS 317
2
MUS 310
3
Ensemble (chamber MUS 371, 374, 379)
1
Music Ensemble (chamber MUS 371, 374, 379)
1
Elective Course
3
ENG 300 (F-W1)
3
PHYS 130
3
Theory/Composition Elective (MUS 405) or General Elective
This minor requires 24 credit hours in Music: 15 hours of study in music theory, literature,
applied lessons, and ensembles and 9 hours of music electives. One-half (12) of the
hours must be at the upper division level.
The Master of Music graduate program has four areas of concentration: Music Education/Teacher Leader, Conducting/Teacher Leader, Conducting, and Pedagogy. These provide continued development of:
individual students which will result in enrichment of their personal lives and will enable them to preserve and extend cultural and diverse heritages; and
professional and scholarly competence in organization, interpretation, evaluation, communication, and dissemination of knowledge in the discipline.
The Music Education/Teacher Leader and Conducting/Teacher Leader concentrations would further enable the teacher/practitioner to meet certification renewal requirements and rank changes mandated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Graduates in the Pedagogy concentration would meet requirements for national certification through the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA).
All degree seeking students must submit a planned program of study (curriculum contract) to Graduate Studies prior to enrollment in coursework beyond 12 hours (inclusive of transfer credit). In compliance with Graduate Studies policy, the degree program is to be developed in consultation with the approved advisor assigned at the time of admission to the program.
Concentration(s)
Conducting (MUCN)*
Conducting/Teacher Leader (MUCT)*
Music Education/Teacher Leader (MUTL)
Pedagogy (MUPD)
*|<p>These concentrations offer choral, orchestral, and wind band options. </p>
Program Admission
Students seeking admission to the graduate program apply through Graduate Studies.
Admission Requirements
Baccalaureate degree in music from a NASM accredited institution.
Successful audition and interview specific to the discipline.
Writing sample that demonstrates style and ability.
Applicants who are alumni of WKU teacher preparation programs seeking the Music Education/Teacher Leader and Conducting/Teacher Leader concentrations must submit a current, valid teaching certificate or Statement of Eligibility for P-12 Music Certification (Integrated, Vocal, or Instrumental).
Program Requirements (30-36 hours)
Prior to completion of 9-12 graduate hours, students are required to take placement exams in music theory and music history.
Conducting Concentration (31 hours)
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Required Courses
Music Core1
MUS 500
Theory Seminar
3
MUS 530
Music Literature
3
MUS 511
Research Methods in Music 2
3
MUS 525
Music and the Human Experience 3
3
Conducting Concentration Core
MUS 518
Advanced Conducting 4
3
MUS 519
Conducting Seminar
6
Ensemble Course
1
MUS 625
Graduate Capstone Project
3
Electives
Select 6 hours from the following5
6
MUS 513
Independent Directed Study/Music Education
MUS 518
Advanced Conducting
MUS 538
Independent Directed Study/Theory-Literature
MUS 540
Choir
MUS 541
University Choir
MUS 544
University Orchestra
MUS 545
Chamber Singers
MUS 547
Marching Band
MUS 548
Band
MUS 549
Chamber Music
MUS 550
Applied Music Secondary
MUS 553
Applied Music Principal
MUS 571
Jazz Ensemble
MUS 574
Opera Theatre
Total Hours
31
1
Level 2 content core for the Music Education/Teacher Leader and Conducting/Teacher Leader.
2
TCHL 559 (1 hr) is embedded in MUS 511.
3
MUS 525 (3 hrs) is a music content course which aligns to competencies in TCHL 530 and is considered a Level 1 education course.
4
MUS 518is a (1) one hour course that is required to be taken three times.
5
Elective hours must be music courses selected from the other graduate offerings: workshops, ensembles, lessons, independent studies, etc.
MUS 525 (3 hrs) is a music content course which aligns to competencies in TCHL 530 and is considered a Level 1 education course.
4
Required the first semester of admission to the program.
5
Competencies included in TCHL 530, TCHL 545, and TCHL 555 are embedded in MUS 509 and MUS 514. Student enrolled in MUS 509 will have opportunities to interact with students in the TCHL 530 course; those enrolled in MUS 514 will have opportunities to interact with students in the TCHL 555 course. Students will be afforded the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in those competencies associated with TCHL 530, TCHL 545, and TCHL 555. Those students demonstrating proficiency would not be expected to complete learning outcomes related to those competencies and accompanying critical performances in MUS 509, MUS 512, and MUS 514. They would be provided with advanced learning experiences associated with the courses or would be permitted to substitute another course. The music education critical performances are loaded in the unit's accountability system (E-PASS).
6
Competencies included in TCHL 555 are embedded in MUS 512. Students enrolled in MUS 512 will have opportunities to interact with students enrolled in TCHL 555.
7
MUS 518is a (1) one hour course that is required to be taken three times.
Music Education Teacher Leader Concentration (30 hours)
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Required Courses
Music Core1
MUS 500
Theory Seminar
3
MUS 530
Music Literature
3
MUS 511
Research Methods in Music 2
3
MUS 525
Music and the Human Experience 3
3
Professional Education Core
TCHL 500
Foundations of Teacher Leadership 4
3
MUS 509
Music Curriculum in the Elementary and Middle Schools 5
3
MUS 512
Music Education Workshop 6
3
MUS 514
Secondary Music Curriculum 5
3
MUS 625
Graduate Capstone Project
3
Elective
Select 3 hours from the following7
3
MUS 513
Independent Directed Study/Music Education
MUS 518
Advanced Conducting
MUS 538
Independent Directed Study/Theory-Literature
MUS 540
Choir
MUS 541
University Choir
MUS 544
University Orchestra
MUS 545
Chamber Singers
MUS 547
Marching Band
MUS 548
Band
MUS 549
Chamber Music
MUS 550
Applied Music Secondary
MUS 553
Applied Music Principal
MUS 571
Jazz Ensemble
MUS 574
Opera Theatre
Total Hours
30
1
Level 2 content core for the Music Education/Teacher Leader and Conducting/Teacher Leader.
2
TCHL 559 (1 hr) is embedded in MUS 511.
3
MUS 525 (3 hrs) is a music content course which aligns to competencies in TCHL 530 and is considered a Level 1 education course.
4
Required the first semester of admission to the program.
5
Competencies included in TCHL 530, TCHL 545, and TCHL 555 are embedded in MUS 509 and MUS 514. Students enrolled in MUS 509 will have opportunities to interact with students in the TCHL 530 course; those enrolled in MUS 514 will have opportunities to interact with students in the TCHL 555 course. Students will be afforded the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in those competencies associated with TCHL 530, TCHL 545, and TCHL 555. Those students demonstrating proficiency would not be expected to complete learning outcomes related to those competencies and accompanying critical performances in MUS 509, MUS 512, and MUS 514. They would be provided with advanced learning experiences associated with the courses and would be permitted to substitute another course. The music education critical performances are loaded in the unit's accountability system (E-PASS).
6
Competencies included in TCHL 555 are embedded in MUS 512. Students enrolled in MUS 512 will have opportunities to interact with students enrolled in TCHL 555.
7
Elective hours must be music courses selected from the other graduate offerings: workshops, ensembles, lessons, independent studies, etc. MUS 512 is a required course. Competencies included in TCHL 550, TCHL 554, and TCHL 558 are embedded in MUS 512. Students enrolled in MUS 512 will have opportunities to interact with students enrolled in the courses TCHL 550 and TCHL 554.
Pedagogy Concentration (30 hours)
Leads to National Certification by Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
Course List
Code
Title
Hours
Required Courses
Music Core1
MUS 500
Theory Seminar
3
MUS 530
Music Literature
3
MUS 511
Research Methods in Music 2
3
MUS 525
Music and the Human Experience 3
3
Pedagogy Concentration Core
MUS 520
Advanced Pedagogy
3
MUS 513
Independent Directed Study/Music Education
3
MUS 553
Applied Music Principal
6
MUS 625
Graduate Capstone Project
3
Elective Course
Select 3 hours from the following
3
MUS 512
Music Education Workshop
MUS 513
Independent Directed Study/Music Education
MUS 550
Applied Music Secondary
MUS 553
Applied Music Principal
MUS 540
Choir
MUS 541
University Choir
MUS 544
University Orchestra
MUS 545
Chamber Singers
MUS 547
Marching Band
MUS 548
Band
MUS 571
Jazz Ensemble
MUS 574
Opera Theatre
Total Hours
30
1
Level 2 content core for the Music Education/Teacher Leader and Conducting/Teacher Leader.
2
TCHL 559 (1 hr) is embedded in MUS 511.
3
MUS 525 (3 hrs) is a music content course which aligns to competencies in TCHL 530 and is considered a Level 1 education course.
Program Exit Requirements
Graduate Capstone Project
Candidates must successfully complete MUS 625 and present research results to the Music Education Committee. The committee will use a 4-point scale with specific criteria to grade the project. A passing score of 3 or higher is needed to pass the exam graduation requirement.
Oral Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive approach to problem solving in the discipline of music, which includes historical, analytical and pedagogical applications. A committee of graduate music faculty will assess each candidate’s oral exam using a 1 (low) to 4 (high) scoring rubric. A passing score of 3 or higher is needed to pass the exam graduation requirement.
"The Department of Music feels like a family. It’s accessible to us 24/7, and you
can tell that the faculty wants us to be successful in our field. They provide help
whenever we need it."
Chamber Music by American Composers
Location: Fine Arts Center Room 189 - Recital Hall
The Department of Music offers more than 20 ensembles open to majors and non-majors.
Big Red Marching Band, Campus Community Band, Chamber Ensembles, Choral Society, Chorale,
Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Band, Musicals, Redshirts, Opera Theatre, Pep Band, Percussion
Ensemble, Steel Band, Symphonic Band, Symphony Orchestra, Treble Chorus, Treblemakers,
University Singers, Wind Ensemble, and many more...
The WKU Department of Music has a strong reputation for training students to be successful
performers, educators, and artists. Graduates can be found teaching throughout the
state of Kentucky as well as across the country including Florida, Georgia, Indiana,
Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas.
Many graduates are performing as professional musicians in classical orchestras, service
bands, opera companies, as soloists, in churches, and in popular media.
Our students have also gone on to highly acclaimed graduate schools.
WKU Music offers three Honors Band Clinics. One for high school students, one for
middle school/junior high students and a Jazz Honor Band.
Information for the clinic will be sent through email in late October to all the Kentucky
High School band directors and directors from in Indiana and Tennessee that have participated
in the past.
A course for beginners. Scales and keyboard skills.
MUS 317 Conducting I 3 Credit Hours
Patterns for each meter, uses of the left hand, cueing posture, attacks, releases,
terminology and score study.
Vocal Courses
MUS 152 Diction I for Voice Majors 1 Credit Hour
Review of the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet and its application to the
German and Italian languages using appropriate vocal literature.
MUS 310 Pedagogy for Performance Majors 3 Credit Hours
A required course for bachelor of music (B.M.) in performance majors which centers
on teaching in their particular area of performance and provides a knowledge of basic
repertoire.
