Current Music Students
Welcome current music students! Students should think of this page as their student handbook with policies and procedures, advising tools and resources, and plan-of-study information.
Prospective students are encouraged to first review the Prospective Students Page.
Jump Links
Navigate to items on this page.
Other Essential Pages
Advising
Drop-In: R 11-12:30 pm, PAC 263, except finals week.
Academic Year: Book a Music Advising Appointment
Summer Intersession 6/9-9/15: Email to inquire about remote availability
Assigned Advisor
Undergraduate music students are assigned to the Undergraduate Music Advisor (UMA) after completing an entrance audition. Students will declare their major or minor through email, during registration sessions, or by appointment with the Undergraduate Music Advisor
Current WWU Students
Drop-in and self-booking options are available during the regular academic year. During intersession (winter break, spring break, summer break) remote appointments are made directly via email for all students.
- Drop-In: Thursdays, 11:00-12:30 pm in Performing Arts Center 263. Down the hall from the Music Office on the main floor of the PAC.
- Self-Booking: Book an advising appointment. Appointments for current students are in-person. Zoom and phone may be requested, please book an appointment through the link and follow up immediately via email asking if it's possible to move to a zoom or phone appointment.
Prospective Students
- Option 1, Advising Meeting: Please email me directly to schedule a meeting. Please include your preference for zoom, phone, or possible in-person appointments. Please include your full availability Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
- Option 2, Department Visit: Prospective students wishing to sit in on ensembles, rehearsals, or classes, along with an advising meeting, should visit the Visit Music page to request a department visit.
Returning WWU Students
Students who are returning to WWU after taking time off should contact me directly via email to schedule an appointment. I may need to review your transcripts and other resources before our appointment.
Declaring a music major or minor is required to obtain access to all major-restricted courses. Overrides will be entered prior to orientation sessions by the Undergraduate Music Advisor, or by appointment to give preliminary access to major restricted courses before declarations are processed.
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Freshman: Freshmen will declare their music major during Fall Advising & Orientation and will receive an email prior to Fall A&O with specific instructions for music registration and declaration.
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Transfer: Transfer students will declare their music major during Fall Advising & Orientation or by appointment with the Undergraduate Music Advisor.
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Returning Students: Returning students will declare their music major by appointment or via email with the Undergraduate Music Advisor. Returning students should contact the Undergraduate Music Advisor prior to registration to obtain access to major-restricted courses
1. Requesting Evaluations
To graduate, students must request a degree evaluation from the Undergraduate Music Advisor and allow three weeks for processing. Music evaluations are submitted as a note in Degree Works.
2. Applying to Graduate
Once evaluations are submitted for all majors and minors, students will submit a Degree Application to the Degree Evaluation Office. Students must apply by the deadlines outlined on the Degree Application page. Students typically apply three quarters before their graduation term (e.g., apply in fall December to graduate in June)
3. Commencement Reservation
Review Commencement Eligibility and deadlines.
Music Advising Links
Other Advising Options
*Specializes in advising first-generation, multicultural, non-traditional, and undocumented students
Music Degree Coordinators
Advising Resources
Programs of Study
Core Sequences and KPE
Music Core Sequence Tracks
Currently, the Music Department offers two tracks to complete the music core sequence. All students are required to complete keyboarding skills, regardless of piano lesson experience. Piano majors, minors, and those with extensive piano lesson experience will be placed in an advanced keyboarding track and complete three-quarters of keyboarding skills (MUS 221C-225C).
Theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills must be completed as a set of courses each quarter, except for students who demonstrate proficiency through assessments or do not meet the minimum grade in a subject. If a student does not meet the minimum grade in one of the core classes, they may still enroll in the other subjects within the set.
- Track One (Recommended): Incoming first-year students are recommended to complete track one, which spans three years and covers two years of music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills, followed by a year of music history.
- Track Two (Accelerated): Completion of Track Two, an accelerated two-year sequence, is an option for students who have passed MUS 126 and combines the 200-level of core classes alongside the music history sequence. It is important to note that choosing the accelerated track does not guarantee earlier graduation, and students should consult their Degree Works page for full degree requirements.
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The KPE is a requirement for all music majors and is administered as tests/quizzes during the final quarter of the keyboarding sequence (225B or 225C), or as a full assessment for students attempting to test out through Music Core Equivalency Assessments.
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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.
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Sight-reading a simple piano piece and a four-part hymn, hands together.
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Play at least two parts from a four-part choral open score. Any combination but soprano/alto.
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Sight read a part for either Bb Clarinet, transposing the Clarinet part, or viola, reading alto clef.
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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.
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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.
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Perform a prepared solo piece from the following choices:
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A Clementi Sonatina mvt.
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A Minuet by Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart, or Beethoven
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A piece from Schumann Album for the Young or Scenes From Childhood
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Anything from Volumes 17, 27, 37, or 47 of Classics to Moderns, Denes A gay, ed2. o 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. You will need to provide your own soloist.
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Program of Study Planning Guides
Our planning guides will not include all degree requirements. Students should primarily rely on the University Catalog and Degree Works to ensure that they fulfill all necessary degree requirements.
Our planning guides are designed to help students understand the overall structure of quarterly requirements and sequences.
About the Minor in Music
- Music Advisor: Lee Anne Frahn
- Full Minor Requirements
The Minor in Music is a 30-credit program that does not have a concentration. It consists of a basic core study in music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills (class piano), along with an introduction to different genres of music, and optional ensemble and private instruction. This minor cannot be combined with a BA in Music or BMus major.
Degree Length
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.
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.
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About the Jazz Studies Minor
- Minor Advisor: Lee Anne Frahn
- Minor Coordinator: Kevin Woods
- Full Minor Requirements and Declaration Instructions
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.
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About the BA in Music
The Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA) is our music major without a concentration. It includes core courses in music theory, aural skills, and history, as well as private instruction and ensemble performance.
Program Length
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.
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.
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About the BMus in Composition Major
The BMus in Composition major (110+ cr.) is designed to provide students with private composition training, advanced music theory, music history, conducting, lesson, and ensemble performance experience. While composition instruction covers all modes, genres, and periods, students may elect to concentrate their creativity on one or more specific areas.
Program Length
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.
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 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).
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About the BMus in Musicology
The BMus in Musicology (110+ cr.) is ideal for students who are interested in musicology or ethnomusicology. In addition to the core sequences of music theory, music history, aural skills, and keyboarding skills, musicology majors concentrate their advanced work on musicology seminars and have the opportunity to take independent studies with our Musicology Coordinator.
Program Length
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.
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.
- 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.
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About the BMus Education Major, Instrument Endorsement
Band and Strings Tracks
- Music Advisor: Lee Anne Frahn
- Major Coordinator: Dr. Patricia Bourne
- Full Major Requirements
The BMus Education major (130+ cr.) is ideal for a student who wishes to teach music in the P-12 music classroom setting. This includes teaching general music, conducting choir/band/orchestra, and other. Students who finish this major, including the combined certification program, will graduate with certification to teach P-12 general/choral music and/or general/instrumental music. The program consists of a variety of pedagogy labs, conducting, and music education-specific courses, including a student internship at a public school.
Program Length
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.
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.
- 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.
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About the BMus Education Major, Choral/General Endorsement
- Music Advisor: Lee Anne Frahn
- Major Coordinator: Dr. Patricia Bourne
- Full Major Requirement
The BMus Education major (130+ cr.) is ideal for a student who wishes to teach music in the P-12 music classroom setting. This includes teaching general music, conducting choir/band/orchestra, and other. Students who finish this major, including the combined certification program, will graduate with certification to teach P-12 general/choral music and/or general/instrumental music. The program consists of a variety of pedagogy labs, conducting, and music education-specific courses, including a student internship at a public school.
Program Length
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.
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.
- *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.
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About the BMus Performance Major
Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwinds
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Area Contact/Career Advising: Area Coordinators
- Full Major Requirements
With an emphasis on high-level performance and pedagogy, students receive comprehensive instruction on their primary instrument, gain a variety of solo and ensemble experiences, and perform two recitals in addition to completing a core set of courses in music theory, aural skills, keyboarding, and musicology.
Program Length
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.
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.
- 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.
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About the BMus in Performance
Guitar
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Guitar Area/Career Advising: Professor Eli Schille-Hudson
- Full Major Requirements
With an emphasis on high-level performance and pedagogy, students receive comprehensive instruction on their primary instrument, gain a variety of solo and ensemble experiences, and perform two recitals in addition to completing a core set of courses in music theory, aural skills, keyboarding, and musicology.
Program Length
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.
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.
- *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.
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Bachelor of Music in Performance: Piano
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Piano Area/Career Advising: Dr. Milica Jelača Jovanović
- Full Major Requirements
With an emphasis on high-level performance and pedagogy, students receive comprehensive instruction on their primary instrument, gain a variety of solo and ensemble experiences, and perform two recitals in addition to completing a core set of courses in music theory, aural skills, keyboarding, and musicology.
Program Length
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.
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.
- *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.
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About the BMus in Performance: Voice
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Voice Area/Career Advising: Dr. Richard Hodges
- Full Major Requirements
With an emphasis on high-level performance and pedagogy, students receive comprehensive instruction on their primary instrument, gain a variety of solo and ensemble experiences, and perform two recitals in addition to completing a core set of courses in music theory, aural skills, keyboarding, and musicology.
Program Length
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.
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.
- 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.
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Polices and Procedures
Accessing Courses and Enrollment
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.
Incoming music students will receive overrides 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
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200-Level: Full lessons at the 200-level are set at two credits, and half lessons are set at one credit.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum major requirements.
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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.
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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.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in student teaching, SEC 495.
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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
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Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum major requirements.
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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.
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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.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in student teaching, SEC 495.
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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.
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MUS 275 - Chamber Jazz Ensembles
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MUS 278 - Opera Workshop
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MUS 280 - Collegium Musicum
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MUS 281 - Applied Chamber Music
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MUS 283 - Chamber Vocal Ensembles
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MUS 284 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble
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MUS 397K - Deep Listening and Improv*
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MUS 475 - Chamber Jazz Ensemble
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MUS 478 - Advanced Opera Production
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MUS 480 - Advanced Collegium Musicum
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MUS 481 - Advanced Applied Chamber Music
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MUS 483 - Advanced Chamber Vocal Ensembles
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MUS 484 - Advanced Vocal Jazz Ensemble
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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.
Major and Minor Policies
Students may complete two BMus concentrations. Students cannot complete the BA in Music and a BMus concentration.
Shared Credit Between Concentrations
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 Performance | Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting, and sometimes pedagogy (voice performance/choral endor.) | 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 for performance. |
| Music Education and Composition | Lessons, major ensemble, core, conducting | MUS 352 can apply to MUS 351 for performance. |
| 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) |
All exemptions, waivers, and substitutions for undergraduate coursework must go through the Program Coordinator/Music Advisor office and subsequently through the Department Chair after consideration and processing. These requests are not official until processed and approved by the Program Coordinator and/or Department Chair.
Equivalency or Substitution
With the exception of core classes, music transfer students may submit syllabi to the instructor and Program Coordinator/Undergraduate advisor to request an equivalency/substitution review. If approved, the action will be applied to Degree Works manually during Degree Evaluations or an advising session.
Music Education
Approved Music Education Waivers
The following waivers are approved by the Department Chair and do not need to be submitted to the Program Coordinator for processing. the action will be applied to Degree Works manually during Degree Evaluations or an advising session. All strings students must complete all pedagogy labs, regardless of primary instrument or experience
- Wind and Brass, Primary Instrument: Already approved. Students are not required to take pedagogy labs on their primary instrument. Exemptions are a manual process that will take place during Music Degree Evaluations for graduation or during an advising session.
- Percussion, Primary Instrument: Students with their primary instrument of percussion are tested out of all percussion pedagogy lab requirements as this material is covered in lessons.
- MUS 328, Technology for Music Educators: This course is no longer required for Music Ed students and will be waived.
Request Needed: Music Education Waivers
- Wind and Brass, Experience in Lessons and Ensemble: Students with recorded experience in lessons or ensemble can be tested out equivalent pedagogy labs with the Program Coordinator's permission. Recorded experience includes records on transcripts, statements from private instructors, or others.
Some items in Degree Works must be manually completed by the Program Coordinator/Undergraduate 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 Catal
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.
Students without Transfer Credit
First-Quarter Course Challenge Assessment
During the first week of classes, new 100-level music theory and aural skills students will be given the option to take the final for music theory and aural skills to potentially test out of the first quarter of core music classes only. This is completely optional and there are no consequences for scoring low on this assessment.
Students with Transfer Credit
Music Core Equivalency Assessments are available for students with transfer credits in music theory, aural skills, and/or keyboarding. AP Music Theory students must earn a 3 or higher to take the assessments and are not eligible for keyboarding assessments unless they have transfer credit in that subject from a college or university. Students are not guaranteed placement at their preferred level and may be required to repeat courses previously taken at other institutions.
Students who opt-out will begin at the 100-level of core music classes.
Assessments are offered online in May and in person in September for incoming fall quarter students. Winter and spring entrants can schedule appointments with the undergraduate music advisor. The music theory assessment is an overview of the two-year curriculum, the aural skills assessment is an individual appointment, and the keyboarding assessment is an individual appointment that includes the Keyboard Proficiency Exam. The accompanied piece included in the KPE is not required at core equivalency assessments and will be completed at another time
Assessment Study Guide and Topics
Download a detailed study guide intended to help you review alongside your previous institution's course materials or AP exam study guides. Eligible keyboarding assessment students will play what they can from the KPE, the accompanied piece will be played at a later date.
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 contact the Undergraduate Music Advisor.
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 Entrance & 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.
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