Degree Programs

A Broad Education in Music

The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a broad education in music within a liberal arts context.

You will gain foundational knowledge in music theory, history, and performance, while having the flexibility to explore various musical interests and interdisciplinary studies.

Program Highlights

• Comprehensive coursework in music theory, history, and performance
• Flexibility to pursue interdisciplinary studies
• Opportunities to participate in diverse performance ensembles

Core Courses Include*:

• World of Music
• Careers in Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• History of American Popular Music
• Intro to Digital Audio and Pro Tools
• Music Recording

Click Here for A Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.

The Music Industry Studies (MIS) Bachelor of Arts degree at Cal Poly Pomona is designed to prepare you for a creative and professional career in the music and entertainment industries. Through interdisciplinary coursework, you will gain the skills needed to succeed in various roles, from performance and production to business and teaching. Our program also prepares you for graduate study if you choose to further your education. 

The MIS curriculum gives you a strong foundation in music theory, musicianship, history, performance, production, recording technology, and business. You'll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge through internships with leading music and entertainment organizations, ensuring real-world experience before you graduate.

Program Highlights

• Customize your experience with a flexible curriculum tailored to your interests
• Learn music creation, recording, technology, and production through comprehensive coursework
• Develop an understanding of the economics, culture, and legal framework of the music industry
• Collaborate with peers in ensembles and classes for hands-on music creation
• Gain valuable real-world experience through internships in the music and entertainment industries 

Coursework includes*:

• Careers in Music
• Songwriting
• Composing for Film and Television
• Composing for Video Games and Interactive Media
• Music Recording
• History of American Popular Music
• Music Publishing, Copyright, and Licensing
• Artist Representation, Promotion, and Touring
• History of Technology in Music

Click Here for a Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.

Preparing for Professional Careers

The Bachelor of Music in Performance is designed for studies aiming to pursue professional careers as performers.

This program emphasizes technical proficiency, artistic development, and performance experience through solo and ensemble work.

Specializations

• Guitar
• Keyboard
• Classical Instruments
• Voice
• Commercial Music

Program Highlights

• Intensive solo and ensemble performance opportunities
• Advanced technical and artistic training
• Masterclasses and workshops with renowned performers

Core Courses Include*:

• World of Music
• Careers in Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• Intro to Music Theory
• Performance Seminar
• Beginning Conducting

Click Here for a Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.

Mastering the Art of Music Creation

The Bachelor of Music in Composition focuses on developing your skills in creating original music.

You will study various compositional techniques, orchestration, and contemporary music practices, preparing you for careers as composers, arrangers, and music directors.

Program Highlights

• Training in diverse compositional techniques
• Opportunities to have original works performed
• Access to advanced music technology and software

Core Courses Include*:

• World of Music
• Careers in Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• Intro to Music Theory
• The Physics of Musical Sound
• Tonal Counterpoint

Click Here for a Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.

Training Future Music Educators

The Bachelor of Music in Pedagogy prepares you for teaching music in schools.

This program meets the "Subject Matter Competency" requirement for the Single Subject Credential in Music, equipping you with the pedagogical skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in music education.

Program Highlights

• Comprehensive pedagogical training
• Preparation for teaching credentials
• Hands-on teaching experience through internships and practicums

Core Courses Include*:

• World of Music
• Careers in Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• Intro to Music Education
• Beginning Conducting
• The Physics of Musical Sound

Click Here for a Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.

Enhancing Your Musical Knowledge

The Music Minor is designed for students majoring in other disciplines who wish to gain further experience and knowledge in music.

This program offers a flexible curriculum that includes core courses in music theory and history, as well as opportunities for performance.

Program Highlights

• Core courses in music theory and history
• Flexible curriculum tailored to individual interests
• Opportunities to participate in performances ensembles

Core Courses Include*:

• World of Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• Careers in Music
• Intro to Music Tech
• History of American Popular Music
• Various performance ensembles and elective courses tailored to your interests.

Click Here for a Detailed Course List

*Not a full list of Core Courses. For a full list, click the link above.