Current Music Students

Request a Concert Recording

Request an archival recording of WWU Music Department ensemble, recital, faculty, or guest artist concerts at no cost. The file will be emailed to the address you provide. Please allow up to two weeks for receipt of the file. An active WWU computer account is needed to access the form. If you don't have an active WWU account, email your request to PACLivestream@wwu.edu.

The WWU Music Department cannot be held responsible for technical malfunctions, acts of God, blackouts, brownouts, building HVAC issues, or other problems beyond its control that result in a less than satisfactory recording. Please note that the reproduction, public dissemination, and/or sale of recordings of non-public domain music without the creator's or publisher's consent is strictly prohibited.

Advising

Connect with Advising

Email our Music Advising Team. Please include your student ID (W#). Undergraduate music students are assigned a Music Advisor after being accepted as a major or minor through Music Admissions Auditions.

Music Degree Coordinators

BMus concentration students are strongly recommended to meet with their degree coordinators (performance majors: applied instructors) for career advising and advanced course selection.

 


Declaring a music major or minor is required to obtain access to all major-restricted courses. Overrides will be entered prior to registration to give preliminary access to major restricted courses before declarations are processed. Please email Music Advising if you have questions or concerns.

  • Freshmen/Running-Start: Freshmen will declare a music major or minor after being accepted through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions. The Music Undergraduate Advisor will contact accepted students individually in mid-spring to early summer to complete the declaration process prior to registering for their first quarter of classes.

  • Transfer: Transfer students will declare a music major or minor after being accepted through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions. The Music Undergraduate Advisor will contact accepted students individually in mid-spring to early summer to complete the declaration process prior to registering for their first quarter of classes.

  • Returning Students: Please email Music Advising if you have questions or concerns.


Students should plan to use Degree Works and the University Catalog alongside music advising materials to complete major and minor requirements.

General WWU Advising

Students are encouraged to meet with the Academic Advising and Student Achievement Center to discuss general university requirements (GURs) and general graduation requirements. 

Advising Resources


Ready to Graduate?

Step 1 - Music Department Evaluation: To graduate, students must request a degree evaluation from the Music Department for a major or minor. Music evaluations are submitted as a note in Degree Works. Students will receive a confirmation email once the evaluation is processed. To request an evaluation, please email Music Advising.

Step 2 - Applying to Graduate: Once Music Department evaluations are submitted for all majors and minors, students will submit a Degree Application to the Registrar’s office. Students must apply by the deadlines outlined on the Degree Application page. Students should plan to apply two quarters before their intended graduation date.

Financial Aid Appeals

Students must email Music Advising to request a degree evaluation for financial aid appeals.


Core Sequences and KPE

The music core sequence is comprised of music theory, aural skills (ear training), keyboarding skills (class piano), and music history courses. The beginning of the sequence is offered each year in the fall and is open to students who have been admitted as a major or minor through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions.

Music Core Sequence

The music core sequence is comprised of music theory, aural skills (ear training), keyboarding skills (class piano), and music history courses. The beginning of the sequence is offered each year in the fall and is open to students who have been admitted through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions.

Music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills are commonly referred to as the "Big Three". The Big Three are designed to be completed as a set each quarter unless a student tests out (through assessments) or does not meet the minimum requirement in one of the subjects. MUS 341 will count as 3 points of Writing Proficiency. 

Sequence Tracks

There are two tracks to complete the music core sequence. See the description and quarterly layouts below. Piano majors, minors, and those with ~8+ of private piano lessons will take the "C" Advanced Keyboarding Sequence, all other students will complete the "B" sequence.

  • Standard 3 years (Recommended): All incoming students are recommended to complete the standard core sequence track. Music majors and minors complete the 100-level set of music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills courses. Majors will then typically continue with the 200-level "Big Three," followed by a year of music history. 
  • Accelerated Two Years: Students who have passed music theory III (MUS 126) can choose to complete the accelerated track combining the 200-level of the Big Three with the music history courses. Please note, that this track does not guarantee earlier graduation. Students are strongly encouraged to consider their course load and their understanding of music theory and aural skills before adding the music history sequence the following year. 
Standard Track Layout

All course numbers are offered by the Music Department (MUS). Students placed into the advanced keyboarding sequence (MUS 221C-225C) will not enroll in the 200-level "B" sequence keyboarding classes. 

Year Fall Winter Spring

1

  • 122, Music Theory I (2 cr.)
  • 121A, Aural Skills I (1 cr.)
  • 121B or 221C, Keyboarding Skills I (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding I (2 cr.)
  • 124, Music Theory II (2 cr.)
  • 123A, Aural Skills II (1 cr.)
  • 123B or 223C, Keyboarding Skills II (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding II (2 cr.)
  • 126, Music Theory III (2 cr.)
  • 125A, Aural Skills III (1 cr.)
  • 125B or 225C, Keyboarding Skills III (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding III (2 cr.)

2

  • 222, Music Theory IV (2 cr.)
  • 221A, Aural Skills IV (1 cr.)
  • 221B, Keyboarding Skills IV (1 cr.) 
  • 224, Music Theory V (2 cr.)
  • 223A, Aural Skills V (1 cr.)
  • 223B, Keyboarding Skills V (1 cr.) 
  • 226, Music Theory VI (2 cr.)
  • 225A, Aural Skills VI (1 cr.)
  • 225B, Keyboarding Skills VI (1 cr.) 

3

  • 341, Music History to 1600 (3 cr.)
  • 342, Music History to 1600-1800 (3 cr.)
  • 343, Music History to 1800 - (3 cr.)
Accelerated Track Layout

All course numbers are offered by the Music Department (MUS). Students placed into the advanced keyboarding sequence (MUS 221C-225C) will not enroll in the 200-level "B" sequence keyboarding classes. 

Year Fall Winter Spring

1

  • 122, Music Theory I (2 cr.)
  • 121A, Aural Skills I (1 cr.)
  • 121B or 221C, Keyboarding Skills I (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding I (2 cr.)
  • 124, Music Theory II (2 cr.)
  • 123A, Aural Skills II (1 cr.)
  • 123B or 223C, Keyboarding Skills II (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding II (2 cr.)
  • 126, Music Theory III (2 cr.)
  • 125A, Aural Skills III (1 cr.)
  • 125B or 225C, Keyboarding Skills III (1 cr.) or Advanced Keyboarding III (2 cr.)

2

  • 222, Music Theory IV (2 cr.)
  • 221A, Aural Skills IV (1 cr.)
  • 221B, Keyboarding Skills IV (1 cr.) 
  • 341, Music History to 1600 (3 cr.)
  • 224, Music Theory V (2 cr.)
  • 223A, Aural Skills V (1 cr.)
  • 223B, Keyboarding Skills V (1 cr.) 
  • 342, Music History to 1600-1800 (3 cr.)
  • 226, Music Theory VI (2 cr.)
  • 225A, Aural Skills VI (1 cr.)
  • 225B, Keyboarding Skills VI (1 cr.) 
  • 343, Music History to 1800 - (3 cr.)

 

The Keyboarding Proficiency Exam (KPE) is a graduation requirement for all music majors. It is administered through tests/quizzes during the final quarter of the keyboarding sequence (225B or 225C). See the requirements below.

Students who are eligible for Music Core Equivalency Assessments (see policies and procedures) will play portions of the KPE during their live Keyboarding Assessment. 

KPE Requirements:

  1. I-IV-V7-I cadence in any key, major or minor, with chord roots in the left hand and any chord inversion in the right hand. 

  2. Sight-reading a simple piano piece and a four-part hymn, hands together. 

  3. Play at least two parts from a four-part choral open score. Any combination but soprano/alto. 

  4. Sight read a part for either Bb Clarinet, transposing the Clarinet part, or viola, reading alto clef. 

  5. Sight-reading a given lead sheet, with a melody in the right hand and chords in the left hand. Included will be any type of seventh chord. 

  6. Harmonize a given melody with chords in the left hand. You must include V/V and V/IV with their proper resolution. Play the melody with the right hand and your harmonization with the left hand. You will have a moment to study the melody. 

  7. Perform a prepared solo piece from the following choices:

    • A Clementi Sonatina mvt. 

    • A Minuet by Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart, or Beethoven 

    • A piece from Schumann Album for the Young or Scenes From Childhood 

    • Anything from Volumes 17, 27, 37, or 47 of Classics to Moderns, Denes A gay, ed2.

  8.  Perform a prepared accompaniment to an art song or instrumental piece with a soloist.

    • Good choices include short Schubert Lieder, Italian Art Songs, pieces from the Suzuki string methods, Vols 3 or higher.

    • Students music provide their own soloist.

    • Those completing the Music Core Equivalency Keyboarding Assessment may forgo this portion until they are able to find and classmate to accompany.

Programs of Study Planning Guides

Before you go on - our planning guides will not contain all degree requirements. These guides are designed to help students see the overall structure of sequences and quarterly requirements. Students should plan to use Degree Works and the University Catalog alongside these guides to fulfill all degree requirements.

Minor in Music

Planning Guide

Music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills must be taken together as a set of classes. Survey courses and electives can be completed any quarter at WWU. The minor in music is designed to take one year to complete.  Incoming students can audition for the minor after their first year and still be on track for graduation.

Fall

Winter

Spring

  • Music Theory I: MUS 122 (2 cr.)
  • Aural Skills I: MUS 121A (1 cr.)
  • Keyboarding I: MUS 121B (1 cr.) OR Advanced Keyboarding Skills I, MUS 221C (2 cr.)
  • Music Theory II: MUS 124 (2 cr.)
  • Aural Skills II: MUS 123A (1 cr.)
  • Keyboarding II: MUS 123B (1 cr.) OR Advanced Keyboarding Skills II, MUS 223C (2 cr.)
  • Music Theory III: MUS 126 (2 cr.)
  • Aural Skills III: MUS 125A (1 cr.)
  • Keyboarding III: MUS 125B (1 cr.) OR Advanced Keyboarding Skills III, MUS 225C (2 cr.)

Jazz Studies Minor

The Jazz Studies Minor consists of a basic core of study in jazz theory and improvisation, jazz arranging and composition, and jazz history, along with ensemble performance and private improvisation instruction. This program is designed for music majors who have an interest in a higher level of jazz performance. The jazz studies minor allows for intensifying studies in jazz while completing a music major. The jazz studies minor is open to all current music majors. This minor consists of advanced jazz theory and improvisation, jazz history, private jazz lessons, and jazz arranging and composition.

Students will enroll in private jazz lessons (418) with Professor Woods with permission. Please speak to Professor Woods for more information.

Jazz Sequences

MUS 202 and 434 are offered in-person every other spring in rotation.

Fall Winter  Spring
334 (3 cr.) 335 (3 cr.) 434 (3 cr.) or 202 (3 cr.)*

Bachelor of Arts in Music

Planning Guide

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter. The BA is designed to take two to three years to complete. Students with minimal or no transfer credits should expect to take at least 3.5 years to graduate with any bachelor's degree.

Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1

  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A  (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons, 200-level (1 or 2 cr)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A  (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (1 or 2 cr)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 25A  (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (1 or 2 cr)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)

2

  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A  (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • Continue with lessons if needed.
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A  (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A  (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)

3

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)

Bachelor of Music in Composition 

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree typically takes around four years to complete for an average incoming music student. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. Students who test out of core classes should still expect to take a minimum of 2.5-3 years to finish the total major.

  • The timeline recommendations for the upper-division composition portfolio, senior composition recital, upper-division primary instrument jury will vary based on technical growth and instructor recommendations. 
  • Year 2: Students should talk to their primary instrument/voice instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury. 
  • Year 3: Students are encouraged to talk to Dr. Halka and their composition instructor about planning for their senior recital the following academic year. 
  • Year 4: Applied lessons on the primary instrument/voice and the co-requisite major ensemble are not required during the final year of composition study unless minimum requirements are not met (18 credits each).
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A  (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) with comp. permission
  • Lessons, 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A  (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) 
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A  (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) 
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A  (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) 
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A  (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) 
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A  (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 231 (2 cr.) 
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 326 (3 cr.)
  • 331 (3 cr.) with permission
  • 300-level (3 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.)
  • 331 (3 cr.) 
  • 300-level (3 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 424 (3 cr.)
  • 331 (3 cr.) 
  • 300-level (3 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)

4

  • 431 (3 cr.) with permission
  • 431 (3 cr.) 
  • 498 (3 cr.)
  • 431 (3 cr.) 
  • 498 (3 cr.) or this quarter

 

Bachelor Music in Musicology

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming Musicology major. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. 

  • Year 2: Students should talk to their primary instrument/voice instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury. 
  • Year 3: Students are encouraged to talk to Dr. Youngblood about their thesis ideas and plans during their third year if not already completed.
  • Senior Thesis: MUS 490 must be completed to graduate. Students will work with Dr. Youngblood to determine which quarter registration is appropriate. A quarter of independent study might be required in the quarters leading up to the thesis.

Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A  (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons, 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A  (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A  (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.
2
  • 222 (2 cr.) 
  • 221A  (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A  (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A  (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.) offered in winter only
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)

4

  • 442/443A-F (4/3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 442/443A-F (4/3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)
  • 442/443A-F (4/3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr Ensemble, (2 cr.)

Bachelor of Music Education: Choral and General Endorsement

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. This major is structured to take approximately 4.25-4.5 years to complete for the average incoming music student. Based on the sequence of classes, all academic coursework can be completed in four years, followed by 14 weeks (1 quarter) of full-time student teaching the following fall or winter quarter. 

  • *Global Traditions: Global Traditions A and B are offered in winter and spring quarters every other year. Students should pay close attention to when these courses are available in their second or third year.
  • **Pedagogy Labs and Voice Ped: Voice pedagogy B is offered in the winter quarter only. Students may enroll K-12 classroom ped and percussion ped when they are offered.
  • Woodring Application: The Music Education Coordinator will assist students in their application to the Woodring of College of Education to complete the combined P-12 certification, this typically takes place during the third year in the music major. 
  • Student Teaching: Students must apply for student teaching two quarters in advance with the help of the Music Education Coordinator. Student teaching is 14 weeks and will begin before and end after the WWU quarter. SEC 495, Student Teaching, is only available fall or winter. 
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 268 (2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • (466B 2 cr.)**
  • (363A 2 cr.)*
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • (363A 2 cr.)*

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 352 (3 cr.)
  • Lessons 300-level (3 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 353 (2 cr.)
  • 362 (3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • (466B 2 cr.)**
  • (363A 2 cr.)*
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 354B (3 cr.)
  • (363B 2 cr.)*
  • 300-level (3 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

4

  • 460 (2 cr.)
  • 469 (2 cr.)
  • SEC 303 (4 cr.) 
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 461 (3 cr.)
  • SEC 310 (4 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 463 (3 cr.)
  • 469 (2 cr.)
  • SEC 411 (4 cr.)
  • SPED 363 (4 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
5
  • SEC 495 (18 cr.)
  • SEC 495 (18 cr.) OR here
 

Bachelor of Music Education: Instrument Endorsement
Band and Strings Tracks

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. This major is structured to take approximately 4.25-4.5 years to complete for the average incoming music student. Based on the sequence of classes, all academic coursework can be completed in four years, followed by 14 weeks (1 quarter) of full-time student teaching the following fall or winter quarter. 

  • Pedagogy Labs: Please review your list of required pedagogy labs through the University Catalog. 
  • Band Endorsement: Within the band endorsement only students are not required to complete pedagogy labs on their primary instrument. Students with demonstrated proficiency on other instruments may test out under advisement with the Music Education Coordinator or Program Coordinator. Strings endorsement students must complete all pedagogy labs even if they have experience on an instrument.
  • Woodring Application: The Music Education Coordinator will assist students in their application to the Woodring of College of Education to complete the combined P-12 certification, this typically takes place during the third year in the music major. 
  • Student Teaching: Students must apply for student teaching two quarters in advance with the help of the Music Education Coordinator. Student teaching is 14 weeks and will begin before and end after the WWU quarter. SEC 495, Student Teaching, is only available fall or winter. 
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 268 (2 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 352 (3 cr.)
  • Lessons 300-level (3 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 353 (2 cr.)
  • 362 (3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 354A (3 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

4

  • 460 (2 cr.)
  • 469 (2 cr.)
  • SEC 303 (4 cr.) 
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 461 (3 cr.)
  • SEC 310 (4 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 465 (3 cr.)
  • 469 (2 cr.)
  • SEC 411 (4 cr.)
  • SPED 363 (4 cr.)
  • 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
5
  • SEC 495 (18 cr.)
  • SEC 495 (18 cr.) OR this quarter
 

Bachelor of Music in Performance:
Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwinds

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. 

  • Pedagogy (466 and 466E): All performance students must take MUS 466E which is offered every other year in fall quarter only. Students must also complete two more credits of MUS 466 (no alpha) with this private teacher and should talk with them about when that enrollment is appropriate.
  • 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
  • 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital. 
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • Lessons 200-level (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • Lessons 300-level (3 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • (466E 2 cr. or next year)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.) offered only in winter
  • Lessons 300-level (3 cr.) 
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • Lessons 300-level (3 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

4

  • Lessons 400-level (4 cr.) with permission
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • (466E 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 400-level (4 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • Lessons 400-level (4 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)

Bachelor of Music in Performance: Guitar

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. 

  • *Major and Guitar Ensemble: Guitar students must participate in a major ensemble each fall quarter followed by a guitar ensemble each winter and spring. The assigned major ensemble for fall quarters is University Choir, MUS 271. If students play another instrument, they may audition for another choir, band, or orchestra. 
  • Fretboard Harmony and Guitar History: These courses are offered every so often when needed for students in the guitar studio. Please talk to the guitar instructor about when these courses are offered.
  • 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
  • 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital. 
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 216 (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)*
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 216 (2 cr.)
  • 282, Guitar Ens. (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 216 (2 cr.)
  • 282 (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 216 (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 216 (2 cr.)
  • 282 (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 216 (2 cr.)
  • 282 (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 316 (3 cr) with permission
  • Mjr. Ensem. (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 316 (3 cr.)
  • 282 (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 316 (3 cr.)
  • 282 (2 cr.)

4

  • 416 (4 cr.) 
  • 282 (2 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.) offered only in winter
  • 416 (4 cr.) 
  • 282 (2 cr.)
  • 416 (4 cr.) 
  • 282 (2 cr.)

Bachelor of Music in Performance: Piano

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. 

  • *Ensemble and Piano Accompanying: Students must take one year of a major ensemble, this includes band, choir, or orchestras. Students who play another instrument can audition for a band or orchestra. Once students receive permission* from the piano area, they may enroll in piano accompanying and advanced piano accompanying for the remainder of the quarters until all major requirements are complete.
  • Piano Literature and Piano Pedagogy: These courses are offered every other year in rotation. Students who are attempting the accelerated core sequence track may need to take these courses during their second and third years rather than the third and fourth years listed below. 
  • 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
  • 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital. 
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • Lessons 212 (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensemble (2 cr.)*
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 212 (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensemble (2 cr.)
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 212 (2 cr.)
  • Mjr. Ensemble (2 cr.)
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 212 (2 cr.)
  • 276, Piano Accomp (2 cr.)* with permission
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 212 (2 cr.)
  • 276 (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • Lessons 212 (2 cr.)
  • 276 (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 367 (3 cr.) or 466A (2 cr.)
  • 312 (3 cr) with permission
  • 476, Adv. Piano Accomp. (2 cr.) with permission
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 367 (3 cr.) or 466C (2 cr.)
  • 312 (3 cr) 
  • 476 (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 312 (3 cr) 
  • 476 (2 cr.)

4

  • 367 (3 cr.) or 466A (2 cr.)
  • 412 (2 cr.) with permission
  • 476 (2 cr.)
  • 367 (3 cr.) or 466A (2 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.) offered only in winter
  • 412 (2 cr.) 
  • 476 (2 cr.)
  • 412 (2 cr.) 
  • 476 (2 cr.)

Bachelor of Music in Performance: Voice

Planning Guide and Advising Notes

The following is a planning guide that outlines the overall structure of the major and will only contain courses assigned to a specific quarter and guideposts for advanced coursework. Refer to the catalog to explore additional requirements and electives. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.

  • Vocal Pedagogy: Students may take vocal pedagogy (MUS 466B and D) starting their second year. The current prerequisite is MUS 315, please ask the instructor for an override. 
  • 315 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
  • 415 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital.
Year

Fall 

Winter

Spring

1
  • 122 (2 cr.)
  • 121A (1 cr.)
  • 121B (1 cr.) OR 221C ( 2 cr.)
  • 166A (2 cr.)
  • Lessons 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir, (2 cr.)
  • (366A 1 cr.)*
  • 124 (2 cr.)
  • 123A (1 cr.)
  • 123B (1 cr.) OR 223C ( 2 cr.)
  • 166B (2 cr.)
  • 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir, (2 cr.)
  • (366B 1 cr.)*
  • 126 (2 cr.)
  • 125A (1 cr.)
  • 125B (1 cr.) OR 225C ( 2 cr.)
  • 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir, (2 cr.)
  • (366C 1 cr.)*
2
  • 222 (2 cr.)
  • 221A (1 cr.)
  • 221B (1 cr.)
  • 366A (1 cr.)
  • 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir (2 cr.)
  • 224 (2 cr.)
  • 223A (1 cr.)
  • 223B (1 cr.)
  • 366B (1 cr.)
  • 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir (2 cr.)
  • 226 (2 cr.)
  • 225A (1 cr.)
  • 225B (1 cr.)
  • 366C (1 cr.)
  • 215 (2 cr.)
  • Choir (2 cr.)

3

 

  • 341 (3 cr.)
  • 315 (3 cr.) with permission
  • Choir, (2 cr.)
  • 342 (3 cr.)
  • 351 (2 cr.) offered only in winter
  • 315 (3 cr.)
  • 466B (2 cr.) or next year
  • Choir (2 cr.)
  • 343 (3 cr.)
  • 315 (3 cr.)
  • 466D (2 cr.) or next year
  • Choir (2 cr.)

4

  • 415 (4 cr.) with permission
  • Choir (2 cr.)
  • 415 (4 cr.) 
  • Choir (2 cr.)
  • 415 (4 cr.) 
  • Choir (2 cr.)

Polices and Procedures

Major and Minor Policies

Declaringa music major or minor is required to obtain access to all major-restricted courses. Overrides will be entered prior to registration to give preliminary access to major restricted courses before declarations are processed.  Please email Music Advising if you have questions or concerns.

  • Freshmen/Running-Start: Freshmen will declare a music major or minor after being accepted through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions. The Music Undergraduate Advisor will contact accepted students individually in mid-spring to early summer to complete the declaration process prior to registering for their first quarter of classes.
  • Transfer: Transfer students will declare a music major or minor after being accepted through Music Admission and Scholarship Auditions. The Music Undergraduate Advisor will contact accepted students individually in mid-spring to early summer to complete the declaration process prior to registering for their first quarter of classes.
  • Returning Students: Please email Music Advising if you have questions or concerns.

Procedures

The Music Department Chair must approve all equivalency changes, substitutions, waivers, and exemptions or exceptions. Please request that your faculty submit the Music Degree Exceptions E-sign form before making changes to your registration or degree plan. If approved, the action will be applied to Degree Works manually.

  • Equivalency and Substitutions: With the exception of core classes, music transfer students must submit syllabi to the instructor and Undergraduate Advisor (frahnl@wwu.edu) to request an equivalency or substitution review. 
  • Core Sequence Equivalency: Equivalency for core music classes is determined through Music Core Equivalency assessments and syllabi should not be submitted to the department unless requested.
  • Exemptions: Students must email our Music Advising Team regarding exemptions and waivers to degree requirements that are not already outlined below (see Approved Universal Waivers below). Please include your W#, name, the reason for the request, and permission to view academic history, if needed.
  • Pedagogy Lab Non-Primary Instrument Exemptions: Wind and Brass students only with recorded experience in lessons or ensemble may be tested out of equivalent pedagogy labs with permission of the Music Department Chair. Students must submit via email proof of eligibility through transcripts or a statement from a private instructor. All string endorsement students must complete all pedagogy labs, regardless of primary instrument or experience.

Approved Universal Waivers

The following waivers are pre-approved by the Music Department Chair and do not need to be requested by the student via email. Waivers will be applied to Degree Works.

  • Wind and Brass, Primary Instrument: Music Education wind and brass students are exempt/tested out of pedagogy labs on their primary instrument.
  • Percussion, Primary Instrument: Music Education percussion students are exempt/tested out of all percussion pedagogy labs.
  • MUS 328, Technology for Music Educators: This course is no longer required for Music Ed students and will be waived.
  • Music Education Majors C Minimum Grade: Due to the updated certification GPA requirements, we are allowing C - grades to apply to Music Education major coursework in catalog years prior to 2022-2023.
 

Students may complete two BMus concentrations.

Students may not complete the BA in Music and a BMus concentration. 

Please note that any course substitutions are manually completed by the Music Advisor and Degree Evaluation Office. Substitutions will be noted at the time of the Degree Evaluation or during an advising session. 

Concentrations Overlapping Courses Substitutions
Music Education and Performance Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting, and sometimes pedagogy (voice performance/choral endorsement) MUS 352 can apply to MUS 351 for performance. MUS 466B will count towards both concentrations for voice performance majors.
Music Education and Musicology  Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting MUS 352 can apply to MUS 351.
Music Education and Composition Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting MUS 352 can apply to MUS 351.
Performance and Musicology  Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting, advanced theory, advanced musicology (one course), chamber music, and electives  
Performance and Composition Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting, advanced theory (2 courses), advanced musicology, chamber music (one course), and electives (if applicable)  
Composition and Musicology  Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting, advanced theory (2 courses), advanced musicology, chamber music (one course), and electives (if applicable)  

Some items in Degree Works must be manually completed by the Music Advisor and the Degree Evaluation office in the Registrar's Office. These manual requests will be processed during Degree Evaluation for graduation or during an advising session.

Manual entry items: substitutions, waivers/exemptions, assessment transfer equivalency, KPE (prior to the catalog year 2022), Junior Recital (prior to the catalog year 2021), foreign language requirement (musicology).

Applied Lessons and Major Ensemble (BMus)

For financial aid purposes, a 42-credit maximum is applied to applied lessons and major ensembles causing these sections to remain incomplete until a Degree Evaluation for graduation or financial aid appeal. During the evaluation, the advisor will calculate future credits needed and waive the remainder.

BMus students should plan to enroll in applied lessons and a major ensemble each quarter until the requirements are met for their program of study - see the University Catalog.

Ready to Graduate?

Step 1 - Music Department Evaluation: To graduate, students must request a degree evaluation from the Music Department for a major or minor. Music evaluations are submitted as a note in Degree Works. Students will receive a confirmation email once the evaluation is processed. To request an evaluation, please email Music Advising.

Step 2 - Applying to Graduate: Once Music Department evaluations are submitted for all majors and minors, students will submit a Degree Application to the Registrar’s office. Students must apply by the deadlines outlined on the Degree Application page. Students should plan to apply two quarters before their intended graduation date.

Transfer Credits and Assessments

We directly accept transfer credits from ensembles, lessons, survey classes, and general music courses as the agreed transfer equivalency. While we directly accept credits, music majors must enroll and participate in lessons and ensembles at WWU regardless of previously completed credits. 

Credits for music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills are initially transferred as general credits (1TT/1XX) until a music core equivalency assessment determines the appropriate equivalency. 

Music Assessments

We offer two optional assessments based on transfer credit status with our core classes: music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills.

  1. First-Quarter Challenge Assessments (No transfer credit). Students without transfer credit in our core classes are eligible for first-quarter challenge assessments in music theory and aural skills. During the first week of classes in MUS 122 and MUS 121A, students have the option to take the online final. Those who score high enough can drop the course and begin MUS 124 and/or MUS 123A in the winter quarter. Scoring low on this assessment has no consequences.

  2. Music Core Equivalency Assessments (Transfer Credit). Students with transfer credit in these subjects are eligible to take the Music Core Equivalency Assessments. These assessments determine the transfer equivalency of music theory, aural skills (ear training), and keyboarding skills (class piano) and place students into our sequence. AP Music Theory students must earn a score of 3 or higher to be eligible for these assessments. Keyboarding assessments are only available to students with transfer credit in that subject from a college or university. To take the assessments, students need to provide proof of eligibility through AP test scores or unofficial transcripts.


Music Core Equivalency Assessment Details

Core Equivalency Assessments are given to students after they are accepted to the program as a major or minor and show proof of eligibility. Assessments are offered online in May and in person in September the Monday before the fall term begins for incoming fall quarter students. Winter and spring entrants can schedule appointments with the undergraduate music advisor.

To prepare for the assessments, review the assessment guide alongside your previous institution's course materials or AP exam study guides.

Please note that placement at the preferred level is not guaranteed, and some students may need to repeat courses previously taken at other institutions.

Core Equivalency Assessment Format

  • The music theory assessment is a timed (120 min) multiple-choice and written assessment. Students taking the assessment online must download and save the Music Theory Written Portion PDF, which must be uploaded as a scanned PDF or photo in the last question.

  • The aural skills assessment is an individual 15-20 min appointment either on Zoom or in person. It includes sight singing, sight reading, and listening for intervals and harmonies.
  • The keyboarding assessment has a prescreening portion via an online form where students can upload or describe their most recent course curriculum. After this, students may be required to schedule an individual in-person appointment for the Keyboard Proficiency Exam. During the assessment, eligible keyboarding assessment students will play what they can from the KPE, and the accompanied piece will be played at a later date.

Course Enrollment and Access

The Department of Music reserves the right to prioritize students on any class waitlist based on graduate date or program.

Students who are completing the accelerated sequence or taking sequential courses out of order may not receive an override to prevent time conflicts. Instructors are not obligated to accommodate conflicts. It's important to understand that students might have to wait until the next quarter or year when the course is available again.

Overrides

Incoming music students will receive overrides from the Undergraduate Music Advisor for first-quarter coursework until declarations are processed.

Continuing students can request overrides from their instructors directly. Students should always include their Western ID number, the CRN, and the type of error they are receiving. 

Time Conflicts

Students who have a time conflict with a music class must work out a solution with the conflicting instructors before requesting an override. We will not give overrides to miss a portion of another department's course. 

Students who are following an accelerated sequence or taking courses out of order may not be granted an override to avoid scheduling conflicts. It is important to note that instructors are not obligated to accommodate conflicts. In such cases, students may need to wait until the course is offered again in the next quarter or year.

The music curriculum is structured around sequential courses that require students to meet prerequisites to enroll in next quarter and academic year. The music core sequence is comprised of courses in aural skills, keyboarding skills, theoretical and analytical skills, and music history that progress in a three-year sequence. Core music sequences begin Fall quarter and will not repeat until the next academic year. Students who qualify for assessments are eligible to begin core classes in Winter or Spring quarters contingent on exam results.  

Students are not guaranteed placement in a course without meeting the pre-requisite.

Three-Attempt Policy

We have a "three attempt" policy that allows students to attempt major/minor coursework up to three times. After this, students must continue with a degree that does not require the unsuccessful course(s). This is in accordance with the insufficient progress policy outlined in the University Catalog.  

Petition Process

To petition enrollment past the three attempts, students email the department chair with the following information. Please note that petitions are not guaranteed and are contingent upon several factors including class sizes, sequencing, and overall progress in the degree program.

Students must include all of the information requested when emailing the department chair. Emails without the following information will not be processed. Students are not required to provide private information; please provide the level of detail you feel comfortable with. Please note, further information may be requested, and any information provided will be held within the strictest confidence. 

  • Full Name
  • W#
  • Area of study and primary instrument
  • Current major or minor
  • Reason for not passing the course(s) within three attempts
  • Permission to view academic history

Students must earn a minimum of a C - in all major or minor coursework. If students receive lower than a C - in academic coursework, it must be repeated when next offered. Any exceptions to this are based on the department and faculty discretion based on a number of factors including but not limited to, material learned/completed, time to degree, petition, or extenuating circumstances. 100-level aural skills students may be given an opportunity to continue in the sequence by taking an additional practice lab, check with your instructor for more information.

Students who earn lower than a C - in applied lessons or ensembles may be put on probationary status for their degree.

Lessons and Performing Groups

The Music Department offers lessons at the 200, 300, and 400 levels for undergraduate students and the 500 level for graduate students. Applied lessons are split into two sections: full lessons (previously called “one hour”) are approximately 50 minutes, and half lessons (previously called “half-hour”) are approximately 25-30 minutes. 

Credit Requirements 

  • 200-Level: Full lessons at the 200-level are set at two credits, and half lessons are set at one credit. 

  • 300-level: Full lessons range from 1 to 4 variable credits. Students must enroll in three credits each quarter unless they exceed the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition. They may reduce the credit count by one at a time until they reach 18 credits. Changing the variable credit to avoid extra costs does not affect the expected workload.

  • 400-level: Full lessons range from 1 to 4 variable credits. Students must enroll in four credits each quarter unless they exceed the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition. They may reduce the credit count by one at a time until they reach 18 credits. Changing the variable credit to avoid extra costs does not affect the expected workload.

  • 500-level: Full lessons range from 1-4 or 1-3 credits depending on the course. Talk with your instructor and Graduate Coordinator to determine enrollment requirements.

Requirement By Degree

All students in lessons must concurrently enroll in a major/large ensemble such as a band, choir, or orchestra. Review the Major Ensemble policies as well.

  • Music Minors: Applied lessons are not required for the degree program and will be offered on a studio-available basis. Students may use applied lessons towards elective credits needed for the degree if offered a studio space. 

  • Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum major requirements. 

  • Bachelor of Music Performance and History & Literature: Enrollment every quarter until all major requirements are fulfilled. A majority of students will enroll every quarter until graduation unless finishing another degree. 

  • Bachelor of Music BMus Composition: Enrollment every quarter until the last year of study. If a student is completing another BMus concentration, they must continue to enroll in applied lessons according to the other major requirements. 

  • Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in student teaching, SEC 495. 

  • Master of Music: Enrollment based on degree requirements varies by concentration. Check the catalog and follow the plan set by the Graduate Coordinator.

 

Major Ensemble

All students in applied lessons must also enroll in a major ensemble (refer to the list below). The only exceptions to this rule are piano minors and non-music majors/minors in piano lessons. The major ensembles available are Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, String Sinfonia, Symphony Orchestra, University Choir, Advanced Treble Chorale, and Concert Choir. Currently, jazz ensembles are not considered major ensemble requirements.

Pianists will substitute a major ensemble for Piano Accompanying (MUS 276 and/or 476) when permitted by the piano faculty and according to the major ensemble guidelines in the university catalog. Guitar students will substitute a major ensemble with Guitar Ensemble (MUS 282) each Winter and Spring quarter until all major ensemble requirements are fulfilled according to their major.

Enrollment and Auditing

According to WWU policies and WA state laws, students have to enroll in classes to participate. WWU students cannot audit a participation-based course

The only current WWU Registrar-approved exception is music majors that are being asked to enroll in an additional major ensemble and this enrollment will put them over the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition. Students who are eligible to audit must talk to the Registrar's Office first and then submit the Special Enrollment Form.

Requirement By Degree 

  • Minors: Major ensemble participation is not required for music minors unless they are enrolled in applied lessons. Students may use major/large ensembles and chamber/small ensembles towards elective credits needed for the degree 
  • Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum major requirements. 

  • Bachelor of Music Performance and History & Literature: Enrollment every quarter until all major requirements are fulfilled. A majority of students will enroll every quarter until graduation unless finishing another degree. 

  • Bachelor of Music BMus Composition: Enrollment every quarter until the last year of study. If a student is completing another BMus concentration, they must continue to enroll in applied lessons according to the other major requirements. 

  • Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in student teaching, SEC 495.

  • Master of Music: Enrollment based on degree requirements varies by concentration. Check the catalog and follow the plan set by the Graduate Coordinator.

Chamber groups, including Jazz Ensembles, are not a substitute for a major ensemble. Chamber music is an additional requirement for the BMus Performance, History & Literature, and BMus Composition degrees. Chamber music may also be used to fulfill elective credits for the music minor. The following courses are current chamber groups offered at WWU. 

  • MUS 275 - Chamber Jazz Ensembles  

  • MUS 278 - Opera Workshop  

  • MUS 280 - Collegium Musicum  

  • MUS 281 - Applied Chamber Music  

  • MUS 283 - Chamber Vocal Ensembles  

  • MUS 284 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble  

  • MUS 397K - Deep Listening and Improv*

  • MUS 475 - Chamber Jazz Ensemble  

  • MUS 478 - Advanced Opera Production  

  • MUS 480 - Advanced Collegium Musicum  

  • MUS 481 - Advanced Applied Chamber Music  

  • MUS 483 - Advanced Chamber Vocal Ensembles  

  • MUS 484 - Advanced Vocal Jazz Ensemble  

  • MUS 485 - New Music Ensemble  

*Temporary ensembles such as 397(A-F) or 497(A-F) will apply to this requirement but will not automatically populate in Degree Works.

Applied Lessons and Major Ensemble (BMus)

For financial aid purposes, a 42-credit maximum is applied to applied lessons and major ensembles causing these sections to remain incomplete until a Degree Evaluation for graduation or financial aid appeal. During the evaluation, the advisor will calculate future credits needed and waive the remainder.

BMus students should plan to enroll in applied lessons and a major ensemble each quarter until the requirements are met for their program of study - see the University Catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

When students are admitted to another degree program, including Woodring, Degree Works creates another page. Please select the degree dropdown (next to your name) to select your other degree. If your major is still not showing under the dropdown, please email MusicAdvising@wwu.edu.

Yes! Music students can double major with any degree outside of the department. Students who complete two majors are not necessarily awarded two diplomas or two degrees. If the two majors are the same degree type (B.A, BMus, BS, etc.) or overlap by more than 50% then one diploma is awarded and the second major is listed as completed in degree notes.  Within the music department, students can complete multiple concentrations.

Students should be aware that scheduling conflicts are common when completing a double major. Students who decide to double major should plan to meet with each department advisor at least once a year to go over academic planning and coursework.

Within the music department students can complete multiple Bachelor of Music (BMus) concentrations, but these are not considered “double majors” as the degrees overlap by more than 50%. Students who complete multiple concentrations will be awarded one Bachelor of Music degree with multiple concentrations outlined in degree notes. Students cannot complete the Bachelor of Arts in Music along with a Bachelor of Music concentration. 

Eligible students can take our music core equivalency assessments to place or “test out” of one or more core classes. Eligible students will have completed college courses in music theory, aural skills, and/or keyboarding skills, or earned a 3 or higher on the AP Music Theory Exam. Assessments are given to students after being accepted via an Music Admission and Scholarship Audition. Most incoming students will complete these assessments before their summer orientation sessions. Students who join mid-year will schedule assessments on an individual basis.

The Department of Music offers HUM or AGCM GURs during the summer. At this time, we do not offer core music classes, ensembles, or lessons during the summer quarter. 

Students at the 200-level of applied lessons must register for either 2 or 1 credit depending on your assigned lesson length.

Students at the 300 and 400 levels can and should change their credits. The system will automatically enroll you in the least credits possible. Review the applied lesson policies and change your credits accordingly. 

Yes. The system automatically enrolls students in the least amount of credit possible. Students can change their MUS 281 chamber music course to 1-2 credits depending on their area policies.  

Yes, for students completing music education and one of the other BMus concentrations. Composition, musicology, and performance students should enroll in only MUS 351, Basic Conducting unless they have an extenuating circumstance or have received instructor and advisor permission. 

Questions or Concerns?

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Department of Music
Performing Arts Center 273
Mailstop 9107
516 High Street
Bellingham, WA, 98225
(360) 650-3130
Music@wwu.edu

Looking for more information?

If you have any questions, we're happy to find you an answer. Call the Music Department Office 360-650-3130, or view the directory of faculty and staff.