The Music Department at Minnesota State University, Mankato provides a quality education and a variety of musical experiences for the prospective music teacher and professional musician. It enriches the lives of all University students and enhances the culture of Mankato the the surrounding region. Professional programs are designed for music majors; general education courses and opportunities for participation in musical groups are offered to non-majors.
Three undergraduate degrees are offered: the Bachelor of Music, the Bachelor of Science, and the Bachelor of Arts. The department also offers the Master of Music in several areas. All programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. For a comprehensive list of music degree programs and other Department of Music information, please refer to the online Undergraduate Handbook (.pdf file 174 KB).
This degree is designed for the student planning a career as a performing musician, college teacher, or studio teacher. Entrance into the program requires a formal recommendation by the applied teacher before the end of the Freshman year. Before being considered for the program, the applicant must demonstrate ability as a performer. The Bachelor of Music is offered in Voice (.pdf file 15 KB), Piano (.pdf file (15 KB), Organ (.pdf file 19 KB), Percussion (.pdf file 15 KB), Winds (.pdf file 15 KB), and Strings (.pdf file 15 KB).
These programs are designed for the student who wishes to be licensed to teach music in the public school. Students majoring in music education choose one area of specialization: Vocal Music (K-12) (.pdf file 16 KB) or Instrumental Music (K-12) (.pdf file 16 KB).
The music industry program is designed to meet the needs of music students who are interested in a career in one of the many areas of the music industry, including merchandising, sales, manufacturing, publication, recording, and arts management. The Bachelor of Science in Music Industry (.pdf file 16 KB) places equal emphasis on both music and business courses.
The Bachelor of Arts (.pdf file 15 KB) is designed for students interested in pursuing the study of music within a broad liberal arts curriculum. The degree program emphasizes a full spectrum of music courses rather than a heavy concentration within any segment of the field.
The Minor in Music (.pdf file 10 KB) is earned in conjunction with another undergraduate degree (frequently the Bachelor of Arts). A minor is designed to provide a background in music.