Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.A. in Music, you’ll have the flexibility to delve into a specialized area in music while also pursuing another area of study, equipping you with a versatile skillset for any career. You’ll specialize in voice, music composition, or your instrument of choice while pursuing another area of study, preparing you for a successful career in music and beyond.
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Connect with a counselor
They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
Through Bethel’s B.A. in Music program, you’ll cultivate a diverse skill set essential for success in the music industry and beyond.
Music theory proficiency
Master fundamental concepts in music theory, composition, arranging, and analysis.
Comprehensive musical education
Develop a strong foundation in music theory, performance, composition, and conducting.
Performance excellence
Hone your musical skills through regular performances, recitals, and collaborative projects.
Leadership and collaboration
Work closely with faculty and peers to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
Marketable skillset
You’ll learn to present under pressure, a valuable skill to have in many fields, and hone your ability to quickly process information using multiple senses.
Professional readiness
Gain practical experience in auditioning, networking, and career development, preparing for various music-related professions.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in our vibrant musical community and gain hands-on experiences that shape you into a skilled and versatile musician.
Collaboration and one-on-one lessons
In private lessons, you’ll benefit from one-on-one mentorship and guidance from accomplished faculty members who are invested in your musical development. And you’ll have opportunities to collaborate on performances and research with your professors.
Numerous performance opportunities
You’ll have access to unique and prestigious performance opportunities, scholarships, competitions, and immersive experiences. And you’ll regularly perform in competitions and several Bethel events like Festival of Christmas, Classics in the Great Hall, and Jazz in the Great Hall in Bethel’s Benson Great Hall, a premier venue in the Twin Cities.
Participate in music tours
Participate in music ensembles that travel across the United States and abroad. Previous locations have included Singapore, Malaysia, Poland, Sweden, France, and more.
Real-world impact
What can I do with a music degree?
Graduates of Bethel’s B.A. in Music program are equipped with a versatile skill set and diverse experiences, preparing for various fields. You’ll also give a senior recital at the end of the program.
Professional musician
Perform solo or with ensembles in a variety of genres, and you can go on to work as an accompanist.
Music education
Teach music in schools, colleges, community programs, or private lessons.
Composing or arranging
Create original music for performances, recordings, films, and multimedia projects.
Music direction
Direct musical ensembles, orchestras, bands, or choirs in a range of settings like churches, theaters, and community organizations.
Arts administration
Manage music programs, festivals, venues, or arts organizations, overseeing artistic and logistical operations.
Music therapy
Utilize music as a therapeutic tool to promote healing, wellness, and emotional expression in clinical settings.
Dual-career opportunities
Students who double major in music often pursue careers in business, psychology, education, or IT, for diverse career options.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.
Kevin Shull
Adjunct Instructor of Music, Director of the Handbell Ensemble and Manager of Music Organizations
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
Explore the full lists: