Music

Administered by the Department of Music and Theatre

Undergraduate Study

The Department of Music and Theatre offers a strong undergraduate music program, where students study with full-time faculty professionals in a supportive environment that encourages students to become their best. Two degrees are offered in music: a bachelor of music, which is more specialized and contains fewer general education requirements; and a bachelor of arts degree with a major in music. (The Department of Music and Theatre also administers the Theatre Program, see Theatre and Performing Arts.)

The music curriculum provides:

1. A comprehensive program of professional studies for students who wish to prepare for careers in music, including teaching, performance, and composition, and for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in music.
2. Courses in music literature, theory and areas of performance for all students, regardless of major.

The department embodies the land-grant philosophy of service to the people of the state with a faculty of active scholars, teachers, and artists committed to excellence in teaching, creative/scholarly work, and arts outreach. The department is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

Student Learning Outcomes

Music graduates will understand and demonstrate:

1. Knowledge of music cultural heritage and history
2. Appreciation for musical creativity, reasoning, and the aesthetic value of music
3. Knowledge of organization and structures of music
4. Analytical skills necessary for listening, performing, and teaching
5. Skills necessary to perform music from a variety of periods, styles, and genres
6. Necessary abilities to communicate ideas musically, verbally, and in writing
7. Awareness of the diversity of musical ideas throughout the world’s cultures
8. For Music Education students: success in meeting the ISU Teaching Standards as outlined by the University Teacher Education Program

Assessment measures include the continuation examination, graduating senior surveys and exit interviews, public performances, senior projects, course grades, teacher certification (for music education students), and the National Association of Schools of Music accreditation review.

Curricula Available to Music Majors

Students interested in pursuing an emphasis in music theater should see Theatre and Performing Arts.

As majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Music students must meet College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and University-wide requirements for graduation in addition to those stated below for the degree (Bachelor of Music) or major (Music Major, B.A.).

Bachelor of Music

This curriculum leads to the degree bachelor of music. This degree is more specialized and contains fewer general education requirements than the bachelor of arts degree with a major in music. Students in this curriculum choose between options in education, performance, and composition. To obtain a bachelor of music degree, a student must earn a minimum of 122 credits, including a minimum of 32 credits in residence at Iowa State University and a minimum of 45 advanced credits in courses numbered 300 or above and must meet all of the requirements specified below.

Courses taken on a pass/not pass basis may be counted toward the required total credits, and may be used to meet the advanced credit requirement, if appropriate, but may not be used to satisfy any other graduation requirement.

Degree Requirements

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (Students choosing the music education option should consult their advisors.) 31 cr.
Social Science		6
Humanities		6
MUSIC 383	History of Music I	3
MUSIC 384	History of Music II	3
Natural Sciences		3
Mathematics, Natural Sciences		6
Electives (not Music)		4
OTHER REQUIREMENTS 16 Cr.
ENGL 150	Critical Thinking and Communication	3
ENGL 250	Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition *	3
LIB 160	Introduction to College Level Research	1
World Languages and Cultures		8
LAS 203	Professional Career Preparation	1
MUSIC CORE 41 CR.
MUSIC 120	Introduction to Music Literature and Styles	3
MUSIC 224	Music Theory I	4
MUSIC 225	Aural Theory I	1
MUSIC 234	Music Theory II	3
MUSIC 235	Aural Theory II	1
MUSIC 334	Music Theory III	3
MUSIC 335	Aural Theory III	1
MUSIC 344	Music Theory IV	3
MUSIC 345	Aural Theory IV	1
MUSIC 361	Conducting I	2
All of the following are required, 12 cr. minimum total:		12
MUSIC 119	Applied Music for Majors
MUSIC 219	Applied Music: Majors
MUSIC 319	Applied Music: Majors
MUSIC 419	Applied Music: Majors
Ensembles: see Ensemble Requirement and Options below for details		7
MUSIC 420	Junior/Senior Recital	R
OPTION: select from the list below		34-54.5
Total Credits		122-142.5

Select one of the following options:

• Vocal Education K-12
• Instrumental Education K-12
• Voice
• Piano
• Organ
• String instruments
• Wind or percussion instrument
• Composition

Vocal Education K-12, 54.5 Credits (Also see Index, Teacher Education.) MUSIC CLASSES TAKEN BY OTHER BACHELOR OF MUSIC STUDENTS REQUIRE MINIMUM GRADE C-,  AND SUPPLEMENTAL MUSIC OPTION COURSES REQUIRE MINIMUM GRADE C.

MUSIC 248	Technology in Music Instruction	2
MUSIC 266	Introduction to Music Education	2
MUSIC 327B	Functional Piano: Voice Majors	2
MUSIC 358A	Lab Ensemble: Choral	R
MUSIC 360	Voice Pedagogy	2
MUSIC 362A	Conducting II: Choral Conducting Techniques	2
MUSIC 366	Methods of Music Education	2
MUSIC 367	Choral Literature	2
MUSIC 374	Instrumental Methods for Vocalists	1
8 credits of each of the following:		16
MUSIC 417R	Student Teaching: Music-Elementary
MUSIC 417S	Student Teaching: Music-Secondary
MUSIC 465	Choral Materials and Methods	2
MUSIC 466	Program Development and Evaluation in Music Education	2
Credit in the following:		4.5
MUSIC 280K	Pre-Student Teaching Experience I: Music
MUSIC 480K	Pre-Student Teaching Experience III: Music (repeatable)
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 301	Opera Studio
THTRE 354	Musical Theatre History and Performance
THTRE 355	Musical Theatre Auditions and Performance
EDUC 204	Social Foundations of Education in the United States: Secondary	3
EDUC 406	Social Justice Education and Teaching: Secondary	3
EDUC 426	Principles of Secondary Education	3
SP ED 401	Teaching Secondary Students with Exceptionalities in General Education	3
Total Credits		54.5

Instrumental Education K-12, 53.5-54.5 credits (Also see Index, Teacher Education.) MUSIC CLASSES TAKEN BY OTHER BACHELOR OF MUSIC STUDENTS REQUIRE MINIMUM GRADE C-,  AND SUPPLEMENTAL MUSIC OPTION COURSES REQUIRE MINIMUM GRADE C.

MUSIC 248	Technology in Music Instruction	2
MUSIC 266	Introduction to Music Education	2
MUSIC 350	Instrumental Techniques: Strings	1
MUSIC 351	Instrumental Techniques: Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone	2
MUSIC 352	Instrumental Techniques: Oboe, Bassoon	1
MUSIC 353	Instrumental Techniques: Trumpet, Horn	1
MUSIC 354	Instrumental Techniques: Trombone, Baritone, Tuba	1
MUSIC 355	Instrumental Techniques: Percussion	1
MUSIC 358B	Lab Ensemble: Instrumental	R
MUSIC 362B	Conducting II: Instrumental Conducting Techniques	2
MUSIC 366	Methods of Music Education	2
MUSIC 375	Choral Methods for Instrumentalists	1
One of the following:		1-2
MUSIC 368	Marching Band and Jazz Ensemble Techniques (2 cr.)
MUSIC 369	String Pedagogy (1 cr)
MUSIC 464	Instrumental Administration, Materials, and Methods	2
MUSIC 466	Program Development and Evaluation in Music Education	2
8 credits of each of the following:		16
MUSIC 417R	Student Teaching: Music-Elementary
MUSIC 417S	Student Teaching: Music-Secondary
Credit in the following:		4.5
MUSIC 280K	Pre-Student Teaching Experience I: Music
MUSIC 480K	Pre-Student Teaching Experience III: Music (repeatable)
EDUC 204	Social Foundations of Education in the United States: Secondary	3
EDUC 406	Social Justice Education and Teaching: Secondary	3
EDUC 426	Principles of Secondary Education	3
SP ED 401	Teaching Secondary Students with Exceptionalities in General Education	3
Total Credits		53.5-54.5

Voice, 34 credits

MUSIC 327B	Functional Piano: Voice Majors	2
Additional credits in these courses:		8
MUSIC 319A	Applied Music: Majors: Voice
MUSIC 419A	Applied Music: Voice
MUSIC 324	English and Italian Diction for Singing	2
MUSIC 325	French and German Diction for Singing	2
MUSIC 360	Voice Pedagogy	2
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
MUSIC 415A	Literature and Pedagogy in Applied Music: Voice (Lit.)	2
Second world language		8
Electives		2
Total Credits		34

Piano, 34 credits

Additional credits in these courses:		12
MUSIC 119B	Applied Music for Majors: Piano
MUSIC 219B	Applied Music: Majors: Piano
MUSIC 319B	Applied Music: Majors: Piano
MUSIC 419B	Applied Music: Piano
5 credits from:		5
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble (5 credits of 321 topics)
MUSIC 327A	Functional Piano: Keyboard majors.	2
5 credits from:		5
MUSIC 415B	Literature and Pedagogy in Applied Music: Piano (Lit. & Ped.)
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
Electives		4
Total Credits		34

Organ, 34 credits

Credits from these courses:		4
MUSIC 119B	Applied Music for Majors: Piano
MUSIC 219B	Applied Music: Majors: Piano
Additional credits in these courses:		8
MUSIC 319C	Applied Music: Majors: Organ
MUSIC 419C	Applied Music: Organ
MUSIC 300 level or above		3
5 credits from:		5
MUSIC 415C	Literature and Pedagogy in Applied Music: Organ (Lit. & Ped.)
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
Second world language		8
Total Credits		34

String instruments, 34 credits

Additional credits in these courses:		12
MUSIC 119D	Applied Music for Majors: Strings
MUSIC 219D	Applied Music: Majors: Strings
MUSIC 319D	Applied Music: Majors: Strings
MUSIC 419D	Applied Music: Strings
Additional credits in these courses:		6
MUSIC 181	Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
MUSIC 415D	Literature and Pedagogy in Applied Music: Strings (Lit. & Ped.)	4
Electives		6
Total Credits		34

Wind or percussion instrument, 34 credits

Additional credits in theses courses:		12
MUSIC 119	Applied Music for Majors
MUSIC 219	Applied Music: Majors
MUSIC 319	Applied Music: Majors
MUSIC 419	Applied Music: Majors
3 credits from:		3
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble
MUSIC 300 level or above		3
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
MUSIC 415	Literature and Pedagogy in Applied Music	4
Electives		6
Total Credits		34

Composition, 34 credits

4 credits from:		4
MUSIC 290C	Special Problems: Composition
12 credits from:		12
MUSIC 490C	Independent Study: Composition
MUSIC 246	Introduction to Creative Digital Music	2
MUSIC 362A	Conducting II: Choral Conducting Techniques	2
MUSIC 362B	Conducting II: Instrumental Conducting Techniques	2
6 credits from the following:		6
MUSIC 346	Computer Music Programming Design
MUSIC 440	Seminar in Music Theory
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music
MUSIC 490B	Independent Study: Theory
MUSIC 490I	Independent Study: Electronic Music
One of the following:		3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History
Electives		3
Total Credits		34

Bachelor of Arts—Music Major

A more general degree than the bachelor of music, the bachelor of arts degree requires no formal specialization. It includes more general education requirements and provides a broader course of academic study.

As majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Music Majors (Music, B.A.) students must meet College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and University-wide requirements for graduation in addition to those stated below for the major.

LAS majors require a minimum of 120 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. You must also complete the LAS world language requirement and career proficiency requirement.

Students in all ISU majors must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives. Check (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) for a list of approved courses. Discuss with your advisor how the two courses that you select can be applied to your graduation plan.

Candidates for the degree bachelor of arts with a music major will normally complete 48 credits of music including the following required courses:

4 credits:		4
MUSIC 119	Applied Music for Majors
MUSIC 120	Introduction to Music Literature and Styles	3
4 credits:		4
MUSIC 219	Applied Music: Majors
MUSIC 224	Music Theory I	4
MUSIC 225	Aural Theory I	1
MUSIC 234	Music Theory II	3
MUSIC 235	Aural Theory II	1
MUSIC 319	Applied Music: Majors	2
MUSIC 334	Music Theory III	3
MUSIC 335	Aural Theory III	1
MUSIC 344	Music Theory IV	3
MUSIC 345	Aural Theory IV	1
MUSIC 383	History of Music I	3
MUSIC 384	History of Music II	3
4 credits from:		4
MUSIC 111	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 113	Jazz Ensemble
MUSIC 115	Symphonic Band
MUSIC 141	Lyrica Ensemble
MUSIC 151	University Chorus
MUSIC 161	Iowa State Singers
MUSIC 181	Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble
MUSIC 301	Opera Studio
Music Electives		8
Total Credits		48

Bachelor of arts students whose chief professional interest lies in research are encouraged to minor in world languages and cultures, history, literature, or philosophy.

General Requirements

Entrance Audition.

In order to be accepted as a music major, a prospective student must pass an entrance audition for the applied faculty in his/her performance area (piano, organ, woodwinds, strings, percussion, brass, or voice). Passing the audition is dependent on the demonstration of performance skills appropriate for college level instruction and the potential to perform at a professional level. In addition, the number of students accepted must balance with the space available in the corresponding applied studios. Once accepted, a student must complete a placement examination in keyboard skills. This examination is normally given by members of the departmental faculty the week preceding the opening of classes for fall semester.

Seminars and Recitals.

All music majors enrolled for applied music courses will attend a weekly 1-hour seminar in their areas, departmental recitals, and 12 recitals of their choosing each semester.

Ensemble Requirement.

See the options above for additional ensemble requirements.

All Bachelor of Music students:

Enrollment in an ensemble course, chosen from the lists below, each semester of full-time enrollment (except during student teaching) is required.

Students in a music education option:

At least six semesters of large ensemble and one semester of chamber music ensemble, chosen from the lists below, are required. One semester of 114A may count as a large ensemble.

Bachelor of Music students in options other than education:

At least 2 semesters of large ensemble and one semester of chamber music ensemble, chosen from the lists below, are required.

Large Ensembles:

MUSIC 111	Wind Ensemble	1
MUSIC 115	Symphonic Band	1
MUSIC 141	Lyrica Ensemble	1
MUSIC 151	University Chorus	1
MUSIC 161	Iowa State Singers	1
MUSIC 181	Symphony Orchestra	1

Chamber music ensembles:

MUSIC 113	Jazz Ensemble	1
MUSIC 161	Iowa State Singers	1
MUSIC 301	Opera Studio	1-3
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble	1

Continuation Examination

To be approved for continuation as a music major on the junior level, and enroll in Music 319, a student must pass a continuation examination taken normally at the end of the fourth semester as a music major. Before taking this examination, the student must complete the requisite forms as well as write an essay including:

1. his/her personal goals
2. a self-assessment of his/her progress thus far
3. an assessment of what he/she expects to accomplish before graduation

The student taking the Continuation Examination performs for a Continuation Examination Committee. Requirements include the performance of three works representing different periods or styles selected by, and studied with, the applied teacher, a self-prepared piece, and sight reading. The student must display acceptable solo ability and performance techniques in at least one of the applied areas. A written evaluation will be given each student following his/her performance. This evaluation will include a candid assessment of the student’s potential to achieve his/her goals. In addition, the student may arrange to meet with members of the Continuation Examination Committee at a later date to discuss the results of his/her Continuation Examination. See Piano Proficiency below. For details and forms go to: http://www.music.iastate.edu

Piano Proficiency Requirement

All music majors must demonstrate proficiency in functional skills at the piano. Keyboard music majors (students whose primary instrument is piano or organ) accomplish this through courses in their curricula. All other students accomplish this by satisfactorily completing Music 228. All entering non-keyboard music majors with previous piano experience meet with the class piano instructor, usually the week before classes start in the fall semester, to determine the appropriate piano class (127, 128, 227, 228) for their initial piano enrollment. Some students are deemed to have met the piano proficiency at this time.  Non-keyboard music majors with no previous piano experience should enroll in Music 127, Class Piano I. Continuous enrollment in piano classes is REQUIRED until successful completion of the piano proficiency requirement. Important: The piano proficiency must be met, either through completion of Music 228 or demonstration of proficiency, to pass the continuation examination. Failure to do so could delay a student's graduation. All students must fulfill the piano proficiency requirement in order to pass the continuation examination and enroll in Music 319. 

Graduation Proficiency

To be recommended for graduation, a music student should demonstrate to the music faculty mature acquaintance with performance styles, technique, and repertoire. All music majors will participate in departmental recitals to the satisfaction of the department. Candidates for the bachelor of music degree will present a graduation recital.

* According to the university-wide Communication Proficiency Grade Requirement, students must demonstrate their communication proficiency by earning a grade of C or better in ENGL 250 (or ENGL 250H). In addition the Communication Proficiency must be certified through one of the following options:

1. Certification of writing skills, by the instructor, after completion of one of the following:

MUSIC 120	Introduction to Music Literature and Styles	3
MUSIC 383	History of Music I	3
MUSIC 384	History of Music II	3
MUSIC 472	History of American Music	3
MUSIC 473	Topics in Advanced Music History	3
MUSIC 475	Music of the Romantic Era	3
MUSIC 476	Music of the Twentieth Century	3

(Passing one of these courses does not automatically satisfy the requirements for Communication Proficiency.)

2. Satisfactory completion of an advanced writing course:

ENGL 302	Business Communication	3
ENGL 305	Creative Writing: Nonfiction	3
ENGL 314	Technical Communication	3

Music, B.A.
B.Mus. - Organ
B.Mus. - Piano
B.Mus. - Strings
B.Mus. - Wind or Percussion Instrument 
B.Mus. - Instrumental Education K-12
B.Mus. - Voice
B.Mus. - Vocal Education K-12
B.Mus. - Composition

Music, B.A.

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 119	2	MUSIC 119	2
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 128	1
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 234	3
Music ensemble 2	1	MUSIC 235	1
ENGL 150	3	Music ensemble3	1
LIB 160	1	Arts & Humanities	3
MATH	3
	16		14
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219	2	MUSIC 219	2
MUSIC 2271	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 384	3
Music: ensemble2	1	Music: Ensemble2	1
ENGL 250	3	Social Science	3
		Elective	2
		(Continuation Examination)
	14		16
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319	2	World Language/Elective	4
Music Elective	3	Arts & Humanities	3
World Language/Elective	4	Natural Science	3
Natural Science	3	Electives	6
Social Science	3	LAS 203	1
	15		17
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
Music Elective	1	Natural Science	2
Arts & Humanities	3	Electives	12
Social Science	3
Electives	9
	16		14

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students with a concentration in piano or organ do not take Class Study in Piano. Students not required to take four semesters of class piano will take additional music elective credits.

²

Four credits chosen from the following ensembles are required:  111, 113, 115, 141, 151, 161, 191, 321.

³

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

LAS majors require a minimum of 120 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives. A list of approved courses can be found at:: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Scheduling of the general education requirements where specific courses are not indicated can be flexible.  Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

Music, B.Mus. - organ

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150c	3	Humanities	3
MUSIC 119C	2	Social Science	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 119C	2
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 234	3
Math/Natural Science	3	MUSIC 235	1
Social Science	3	Music Ensemble	1
LIB 160	1
	18		16
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219C	2	MUSIC 219C	2
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 384	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 345	1
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
Natural Science	3	Humanities	3
ENGL 250	3	General Education Elective	3
		MUSIC 327	2
		(Continuation Examiniation)
	16		18
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 119B	1	MUSIC 119B	1
MUSIC 319C	3	MUSIC 319C	3
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 415C	2
Music History/Theory - 400 Level*	3	Music Ensemble	1
Music Ensemble	1	World Language/Elective	4
World Language/Elective	4	Math/Natural Science	3
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	LAS 203	1
	17		15
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 119B	1	MUSIC 119B	1
MUSIC 419C	3	MUSIC 419C	3
Music Elective - 300+ Level	3	Music Ensemble	1
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 415C	3
Second World Language	4	Second World Language	4
General Education Elective	2	MUSIC 420	R
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3
	17		12

c

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at:: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

*

Some advanced theory and history courses (organ major requires 2 of each) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising.

Music, B.Mus. - piano

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150c	3	Humanities	3
MUSIC 119B	3	MUSIC 119B	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 234	3
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 235	1
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 120	3
LIB 160	1	Music Ensemble	1
Math/Natural Science	3
	16		14
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219B	3	MUSIC 219B	3
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 384	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
ENGL 250	3	Elective	2
Elective	2	MUSIC 327	2
		MUSIC 321	1
		(Continuation Examination)
	16		16
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319B	3	MUSIC 319B	3
MUSIC 321	1	MUSIC 321	1
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 415B	3
Music History/Theory - 400 Level	3	Natural Science	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	World Language/Elective	4
World Language/Elective	4	LAS 203	1
	17		16
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 321	1	MUSIC 321	1
MUSIC 419B	3	MUSIC 419B	3
Music Ensemble	1	General Education Elective	3
General Education Elective	2	Math/Natural Science	3
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	Humanities	3
Social Science	3	Social Science	3
MUSIC 415B	2	MUSIC 420	R
	15		16

c

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at:: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

*

Some advanced theory and history courses (piano major requires 1 history, 2 theory) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising.

Music, B.Mus. - strings

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150c	3	Humanities	3
MUSIC 119D	3	MUSIC 181	1
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 119D	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 1281	1
MUSIC 181	1	MUSIC 234	3
Math/Natural Science	3	MUSIC 235	1
LIB 160	1
	17		15
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219D	3	MUSIC 219D	3
MUSIC 2271	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 321D	1
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 181	1	MUSIC 384	3
ENGL 250	3	MUSIC 181	1
		Social Science	3
		(Continuation Examination)
	15		16
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 321D	1	MUSIC 321D	1
MUSIC 319D	3	MUSIC 319D	3
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 181	1
MUSIC 415D	2	World Language/Elective	4
Music History/Theory - 400 Level*	3	Math/Natural Science Choice	3
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	LAS 203	1
MUSIC 181	1
World Language/Elective	4
	19		13
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 321D	1	MUSIC 181	1
MUSIC 419	3	MUSIC 321D	1
MUSIC 181	1	MUSIC 415D	2
Social Science	3	MUSIC 419D	3
Natural Science	3	General Education Elective	3
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	Humanities	3
Elective	2	General Education Elective	2
		MUSIC 420	R
	16		15

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students not required to take four semesters of class piano will take additional music elective credits.

c

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

*

Some advanced theory and history courses (string major requires 1 history, 2 theory) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising.

Music, B.Mus. - wind or percussion instrument

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150c	3	Arts and Humanites	3
MUSIC 119	3	Music Ensemble	1
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 119	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 1281	1
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 234	3
Social Science	3	MUSIC 235	1
LIB 160c	1
	17		15
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219	3	MUSIC 219	3
MUSIC 2271	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 384	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
ENGL 250	3	General Education Elective	3
		(Continuation Examination)
	15		15
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319	3	MUSIC 319	3
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 321	1
MUSIC 4152	2	MUSIC 4152	2
Music History/Theory - 400 Level*	3	Music Ensemble	1
Music Ensemble	1	World Language/Elective	4
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	Math/Natural Science	3
World Language/Elective	4	LAS 203	1
	18		15
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 321	1	MUSIC 321	1
MUSIC 419	3	MUSIC 419	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Elective 300+ Level	3
MUSIC 440	3	Arts & Humanities	3
Elective	2	Math/Natural Science	3
Social Science	3	MUSIC 420	R
Natural Science	3
General Education Elective	2
	18		13

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students with a concentration in piano or organ do not take Class Study in Piano. Students not required to take four semesters of class piano will take additional elective credits.

c

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at:: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

*

Some advanced theory and history courses (wind or percussion major requires 1 history, 2 theory) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising .

Music, B.Mus. - Instrumental Education K-12

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 119	2	MUSIC 119	2
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 1281	1
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 234	3
Ensemble	1	MUSIC 235	1
ENGL 150	3	MUSIC 351/354/355**	1-2
LIB 160	1	MUSIC 358B	R
Gen. Ed. (Humanities)	3	Ensemble	1
Gen. Ed. (Math)	3	PSYCH 230	3
		MUSIC 266c	2
		Apply to Teacher Education Program
		MUSIC 280K	0.5
	19		17.5-18.5
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219	2	MUSIC 219	2
MUSIC 227	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 350/352/353**	1	MUSIC 351/354/355**	1-2
MUSIC 358B	R	MUSIC 358B	R
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 384	3
Ensemble	1	Ensemble	1
ENGL 250	3	SP CM 212	3
Natural Science	3	MUSIC 248	2
EDUC 204	3	MUSIC 368 (odd springs) or MUSIC 364 (even springs) or MUSIC 490A (arr.)++	1-2
		Continuation Exam
	21		18-20
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319	2	MUSIC 319	2
MUSIC 350/353**	1	MUSIC 351/354/355**	1-2
MUSIC 358B	R	MUSIC 362B	2
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 358B	R
MUSIC 366c	2	MUSIC 480K	1
MUSIC 480K	1	MUSIC 368 (odd springs) or MUSIC 464 (even springs) or MUSIC 490 (arr.)++	1-2
Ensemble	1	Ensemble	1
SP ED 401c	3	World Language	4
Natural Science/Math	3	EDUC 406	3
World Language	4	MUSIC 375	1
		LAS 203	1
	19		17-19
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 419	2	MUSIC 417S	8
MUSIC 350/352/353**	1	MUSIC 417R	8
MUSIC 358B	R
MUSIC 466	2
Ensemble	1
PSYCH 333	3
EDUC 426	3
MUSIC 480KC	2
Gen. Ed. - Humanities	3
MUSIC 420	R
	17		16

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students with a concentration in piano or organ do not take Class Study in Piano.

**

Students should take the major area (WW or brass) with which they are least familiar first to gain more experience in lab band. However, WW players planning to gain additional skills on a 2nd WW, might choose to take that area first. Non-WW players should take 351 before 352. 358B must be taken concurrently with each tech course (350-355).

++

Alternate year courses. String players take 490B and 464. WW and brass players take 368 and 464.

c

These courses which appear in the same semester must be taken concurrently.

 

The LAS world language requirement must be met. The U.S. diversity and international perspectives requirements are automatically met with courses required for this degree option (EDUC 406 and MUSIC 383).

 

Many general education and education (EDUC) courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated as well as summer. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated (Most music courses are offered one semester each year).

Music, B.Mus. - voice

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150c	3	Humanities	3
MUSIC 119A	2	Social Science	3
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 119A	2
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 1281	1
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 234	3
Math/Natural Science	3	MUSIC 235	1
LIB 160	1	Music Ensemble	1
	16		17
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219A	2	MUSIC 219A	2
MUSIC 2271	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 384	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
Natural Science	3	General Education Elective	3
ENGL 250	3	(Continuation Examination)
	17		14
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319A	3	MUSIC 319A	3
MUSIC 324 or 415A2	2	MUSIC 325 or 3602	2
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 327	2
Music History - 400 Level	3	Music Ensemble	1
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	World Language/Elective	4
Music Ensemble	1	Math/Natural Science	3
World Language/Elective	4	LAS 203	1
	18		16
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 419A	3	MUSIC 419A	3
MUSIC 415A or 3242	2	MUSIC 360 or 3252	2
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
MUSIC 440 (even falls only)	3	Humanities	3
Second World Language	4	Social Science	3
General Education Elective	2	Second World Language	4
		MUSIC 420	R
	15		16

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses.

²

MUSIC 324 alternate Fall (even numbered years) / MUSIC 325 alternate Spring (odd number years -- same academic year; MUSIC 360 alternate Spring (even numbered years) when 325 is not taught.

c

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

 

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at:: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated. (Most music courses are offered one semester each year.)

*

Some advanced theory and history courses (voice major requires 1 history, 2 theory) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising.

Music, B.Mus. - Vocal Education K-12

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 119	2	MUSIC 119	2
MUSIC 1271	1	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 1281	1
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 234	3
Choral Ensemble	1	MUSIC 235	1
MUSIC 358A2	R	Choral Ensemble	1
ENGL 150	3	MUSIC 358A2	R
Humanities	3	SP CM 212c	3
Math course	3	MUSIC 266c	2
LIB 160	1	MUSIC 280K	0.5
	19		16.5
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219	2	MUSIC 219	2
MUSIC 2271	1	MUSIC 2281	1
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 248	2
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 361 (even falls) or PSYCH 230 (odd falls)++	2-3	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 383	3	Choral Ensemble	1
Choral Ensemble	1	MUSIC 360(even springs)++	2
MUSIC 358A2	R	MUSIC 362A (odd springs) or MUSIC 367 (even springs)++	2
ENGL 250	3	MUSIC 384	3
EDUC 204	3	MUSIC 358A2	R
Natural Science	3	Continuation Exam
	22-23		17
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319	2	MUSIC 319	2
Choral Ensemble	1	MUSIC 327	2
MUSIC 366c	2	Choral Ensemble	1
MUSIC 480Kc	1	MUSIC 360 (even springs)	2
MUSIC 358A2	R	MUSIC 362A (odd springs) or MUSIC 367 (even spring)++	2
MUSIC 361 (even falls) or EDUC 333 (odd falls)++	2-3	MUSIC 358A+	R
Humanities	3	MUSIC 480K	1
SP ED 401c	3	World Language	4
World Language	4	General Education - Natural Science/Math	3
MUSIC 374	1	LAS 203	1
	19-20		18
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 419	2	MUSIC 417R	8
MUSIC 466c	2	MUSIC 417S	8
Choral Ensemble	1
MUSIC 301	3
MUSIC 465	2
MUSIC 358A2	R
PSYCH 333	3
EDUC 426	3
MUSIC 480Kc	2
EDUC 406	3
MUSIC 420	R
	21		16

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students with a concentration in piano or organ do not take Class Study in Piano.

²

Lab Ensemble is required every semester offered: Fall and odd springs.

c

These courses which appear in the same semester must be taken concurrently.

++

Alternate year courses: The usual semester of offering is indicated by the calendar year (odd or even) of the semester. Consult the current catalog and the department web site for up-to-date information about semesters courses are offered. Psych 230 and EDUC 333 are offered every semester; when they are taken is determined by the schedules of the alternate year music courses.

 

The LAS World Language requirements must be met. The U.S. diversity and international perspectives requirements are automatically met with courses required for this degree option (EDUC 406 and MUSIC 383).

*

Advanced theory and history courses (music education major requires 1 history, 1 theory) are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed in the course descriptions in the catalog at: https://www.music.iastate.edu/advising.

 

Flexibility in scheduling. Many general education courses can easily be taken in different semesters than indicated. Music courses are best kept in the order/semesters indicated (Most music courses are offered one semester each year).

Music, B.Mus.-composition

Freshman
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
ENGL 150	3	Math/Natural Science	3
MUSIC 119	2	MUSIC 290C	1
MUSIC 290C	1	MUSIC 119	2
MUSIC 127	1	MUSIC 120	3
MUSIC 224	4	MUSIC 128	1
MUSIC 225	1	MUSIC 234	3
Music Ensemble	1	MUSIC 235	1
Social Science	3	Music Ensemble	1
LIB 160	1
	17		15
Sophomore
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 219	2	MUSIC 219	2
MUSIC 227	1	MUSIC 228	1
MUSIC 383	3	MUSIC 344	3
MUSIC 334	3	MUSIC 345	1
MUSIC 335	1	MUSIC 384	3
Music Ensemble	1	Music Ensemble	1
MUSIC 290C	1	MUSIC 290C	1
ENGL 250	3	MUSIC 246	2
		General Education Elective	3
		Continuation Examination	R
	15		17
Junior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 319	1	MUSIC 319	1
MUSIC 361	2	MUSIC 362A or 362B	2
Music History - 400 Level	3	Music Ensemble	1
Music Theory - 400 Level	3	MUSIC 490C	3
Music Ensemble	1	Math/Natural Science	3
MUSIC 490C	2	World Language Elective	4
World Language Elective	4	LAS 203	1
	16		15
Senior
Fall	Credits	Spring	Credits
MUSIC 419	1	MUSIC 419	1
Music Theory - 400 Level	3	Music ensemble	1
Music Ensemble	1	Natural Science	3
MUSIC 490C	3	MUSIC 490C	4
Humanities	3	MUSIC 362A or 362B	2
Social Science	3	Humanities	3
General Education Elective	2	MUSIC 420	R
	16		14

¹

A placement examination in keyboard skills determines the student's placement in the Class Study in Piano courses. Students with a concentration in piano or organ do not take Class Study in Piano. Students placing out of class piano may need to take additional elective credits to earn the required 124.5 cr. for the BM degree.

²

ENGL 150 recommends concurrent enrollment in LIB 160.

³

Alternate year course, taught in odd number years, spring semester.

 

Some advanced theory and history courses are not offered every semester. Semesters of offerings are listed int he course descriptions in the catalog. The BM in composition requires one advanced history course (3 cr.) and 9 credits of advanced theory from the following courses: 346, 440, 446, 490B, 590I. Advanced theory courses must include 346 or 446.

*

The BM degree requires a minimum of 124.5 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. The LAS World Language requirements must be met. Courses which may be used for the General Education Requirements can be found at: (https://las.iastate.edu/students/academics/general-education/) All ISU students must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives (which is satisfied with MUSIC 383). A list of approved courses can be found at: (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) The courses taken to meet these requirements may also be used to meet other requirements.

Minor in Music

Candidates for the minor in music will complete 15 credits in music including:

MUSIC 101	Fundamentals of Music	2
or MUSIC 224	Music Theory I
Three of the following		9
MUSIC 102	Introduction to Music Listening
MUSIC 120	Introduction to Music Literature and Styles
or MUSIC 302	Masterpieces of Music and Art in Western Culture.
MUSIC 304	History of American Rock 'n' Roll
MUSIC 383	History of Music I
4 credits chosen from the following		4
MUSIC 111	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 113	Jazz Ensemble
MUSIC 114A	Marching and Pep Bands: Marching Band
MUSIC 114B	Marching and Pep Bands: Pep Band
MUSIC 115	Symphonic Band
MUSIC 141	Lyrica Ensemble
MUSIC 151	University Chorus
MUSIC 161	Iowa State Singers
MUSIC 181	Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 301	Opera Studio
MUSIC 321	Advanced Ensemble
MUSIC 118	Applied Music: Non-majors
MUSIC 318	Applied Music: Non-majors
MUSIC 290F	Special Problems: Applied Music

At least 6 of the 15 credits must be in courses numbered 300 and above taken at ISU with a grade of C or better. The minor must include at least 9 credits that are not used to meet any other department, college, or university requirement.

Students pursuing a music minor must meet the audition requirements and/or prerequisites for all courses they wish to take.

MINOR IN MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

Candidates for the minor in music technology will complete 15 credits including:

MUSIC 246	Introduction to Creative Digital Music	2
MUSIC 346	Computer Music Programming Design	3
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music	3
7 credits from the following		7
COM S 107	Windows Application Programming
COM S 207	Fundamentals of Computer Programming
or COM S 227	Object-oriented Programming
COM S 228	Introduction to Data Structures
COM S 309	Software Development Practices
COM S 327	Advanced Programming Techniques
CPR E 329	Software Project Management
E E 201	Electric Circuits
E E 224	Signals and Systems I
E E 324	Signals and Systems II
M E 451	Engineering Acoustics
S E 319	Construction of User Interfaces
MUSIC 101	Fundamentals of Music
or MUSIC 105	Basic Musicianship
MUSIC 102	Introduction to Music Listening
MUSIC 118	Applied Music: Non-majors
MUSIC 120	Introduction to Music Literature and Styles
or MUSIC 302	Masterpieces of Music and Art in Western Culture.
MUSIC 224	Music Theory I
MUSIC 225	Aural Theory I
MUSIC 234	Music Theory II
MUSIC 235	Aural Theory II
MUSIC 290F	Special Problems: Applied Music
MUSIC 304	History of American Rock 'n' Roll
MUSIC 318	Applied Music: Non-majors
MUSIC 383	History of Music I
MUSIC 384	History of Music II
MUSIC 472	History of American Music
MUSIC 490I	Independent Study: Electronic Music
Total Credits		15

Music courses  that may be taken by music majors to meet the requirements for the Music Technology minor are limited to the following:

MUSIC 246	Introduction to Creative Digital Music	2
MUSIC 346	Computer Music Programming Design	3
MUSIC 446	Sound Synthesis Design for Electronic Music	3
MUSIC 490I	Independent Study: Electronic Music	arr †
MUSIC 590I	Special Topics: Electronic Music	arr †
† Arranged with instructor.

At least six of the fifteen credits must be taken at Iowa State University in courses numbered 300 or above with a grade of C or higher. The minor must include at least nine credits not used to meet any other department, college, or university requirement. Students pursuing a minor in music technology must meet the audition requirements and/or prerequisites for all music courses they wish to take.