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B.M. Music

We See Your Future in Music.
We see your greatest potential and your motivation to achieve. We see you at NSU.
Norfolk State University
Bachelor of Music

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education is designed to prepare teachers of music in elementary and secondary schools. The program includes theoretical and applied music studies, general studies, music history, literature, methodology, and practicum with concentration in Voice, Keyboard and Band/Orchestral instruments.

The Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Media is designed to expand the career preparation of students by providing knowledge, skills, and practical experience central to music industry needs in the areas of broadcast and recording media. The program includes courses in music and mass communications. Media is designed to expand the career preparation of students by providing knowledge, skills, and practical experience central to music industry needs in the areas of broadcast and recording media. The program includes courses in music and mass communications.

Eligibility to major in music is determined by the Music faculty on the basis of musical background and experience, results of auditions and tests, and general qualifications to pursue Music as a major field.


Undergraduate Admission to Music

All students who desire entry into programs in music must audition. The audition can be arranged by contacting the music office or any music faculty member. Upon acceptance into the University, the candidate’s request to enter Pre – Music is granted conditionally by the Office of Admission. However, final approval is granted by the Division of Music. 

At freshman orientation, diagnostic examinations in music fundamentals and sight-singing, an audition on a principal instrument (if not previously auditioned), and a piano placement examination is conducted. The document Auditions and Preliminary Tests in Music on the Division of Music website should be reviewed prior to freshman orientation. Consequently, approved candidates are enrolled in the Pre – Music Curriculum. Taken during the first semester of enrollment, these courses are utilized to canvass the potential of the candidate to fulfill the requirements of the Bachelor of Music (B. M.) curriculum. The courses in the Pre – Music Curriculum are also a part of the Bachelor of Music degree.

What to expect as a music student

A robust training program that will deliver world class stage and, or, studio readiness in Music and or Music technologies. To work in highly personalized environments with world class musicians, and music educators; as well as to work with up-to-date equipment as applicable. To graduate with skills that create and sustain outstanding music-based, and critical thinking careers. A broad range of theoretical and laboratory experiences that prepare students for careers as K-12 vocal or band/orchestral teachers, or as professionals in the field of music technology A four-year curriculum of intensive study aligned with the curriculum.

Degree at a glance

  • Average Class Size:
    1 – 12 for studio classes 
    15 – 30 for lecture classes
  • Total Credit Hours:
    127 (Music Education)
    122 (Media)
  • Program Completion: 4 - 6 years

Where will my degree take me?

A Bachelor of Music degree from NSU prepares you for one of the following careers:

Music Educator, Performer, Choral Director, Band Director, University Professor, Worship Leader/Church Musician, Composer/Arranger, Talent Agent, Recording/Touring Artist, Background Vocalist, Instrumentalist, Voiceover Artist, Hip Hop Artist, Orchestra Member, Local School Districts, Military Band, Disney Productions, Spirit of Norfolk Cruises, Various Performance Venues, Yamaha, Local churches, Colleges/Universities, Virginia Opera, Virginia Symphony, WHRO TV, Music Producer Workplaces, Local School Districts, Military Band, Disney Productions, Spirit of Norfolk Cruises, Various Performance Venues, Yamaha, Local churches, Colleges/Universities.