Music Degree Program

If you have a passion for music and want to pursue a career that spotlights your talents and personal interests, the Music major at CMU is a huge step in the right direction. Taught in CMU's renowned Swinney Conservatory of Music, this program will establish a solid foundation in the field of music. In this program, you will gain experience and knowledge in many different genres of music while exploring historical context and music theory concepts. You will also strengthen your performance skills, both as an individual and within a group, and build on individual skills unique to you as a musician.

Music Degree Program Offerings

This program is offered at the following locations:

Residential Campus


About This Program

The Music major is offered to our students through the Swinney Conservatory of Music. Our classes instill a well-rounded knowledge of music and create the foundation needed to pursue a musical career.

As a CMU Music major, you will have opportunities to:

  • Take courses in conducting, composition, music theory, music history, and aural skills
  • Participate in large ensembles including Concert Band, Jazz Band, Worship Band, Chorale, and Conservatory Singers
  • Participate in small chamber ensembles
  • Improve your leadership abilities both as an individual and as a part of an ensemble 
  • Develop advanced memory, concentration, and performance skills
  • Interact and perform with a variety of skilled colleagues, evaluate and critique musical performances, and form new musical ideas
  • Receive the preparation needed to pursue an advanced degree or find a job in the field of music education

Meet the music faculty

Degrees Available

Other CMU Music Programs:

Admission Requirements

Admission to CMU is selective. Our admission staff carefully reviews and evaluates each application on an individual basis. Please review all requirements prior to applying for admission.

CMU Admission Requirements

Audition Information

Students can interview and audition with a Swinney Conservatory faculty member during a campus visit. Materials may include All-District or All-State audition music, solos, or etudes. Students may also be asked to sight-read or perform scales. Full tuition scholarships are available through the Central’s Got Talent audition day.

Central's Got Talent

Schedule a Campus Visit