Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Arts in Music

The Bachelor of Arts in Music degree program offers students a broad liberal education with the ability to specialize in various fields of study. This program is ideal for students who are interested in music but may wish to pursue careers in law, medicine, arts administration, media studies, elementary education, digital arts, and more. In addition to music courses, BA (Music) students have the flexibility to take a large number of courses outside of the field of Music, allowing them to create degree plans that cater to their individual interests and needs.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts degree is offered as either a B.A. or B.A. (Honours), both requiring the completion of 120 units and normally four years of full-time study.

Courses Required in the First Year

• Fall semester:
  • Music 213
  • Music Performance 201, 203, 205, 211, 213, or 215 (part A) OR Music 225A
  • Music 2303 or Open Option
  • Non-Music Option
  • Music 105A
  • Non-Music Option
• Winter semester:
  • Music 214
  • Music Performance 201, 203, 205, 211, 213, or 215 (part B) OR Music 225B
  • Music 2323 or Open Option
  • Music 105B
  • Non-Music Option
  • Non-Music Option

Notes on Course Selection

1. Large Performing Ensembles: Students may register but must audition in September. These are three credit courses that run over the entire year; students must register for both “A” and “B” parts.
2. Recital/listening hours: Recommended, but not required, of BA Music students; no credit weight towards degree.
3. Students are only required to complete one of Music 230 or 232.

Faculty and Program

Studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree means that you are a student in the Faculty of Arts. The program that you choose refers to the subject area you’d like your Bachelor of Arts degree to focus on (e.g., Bachelor of Arts, major in History).

Transfer Credit

If you are coming to the University of Calgary with Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit, you will follow the same registration process as any first-time university student. You may be eligible to use your transfer credit in your degree program depending on the program you have entered and whether or not the courses are applicable.

Enhancing Your Bachelor of Arts Program

• Co-op and Internship: Gain valuable work experience in your industry—all before you graduate.
• Study Abroad: Experience different cultures, gain a better understanding of world issues, and travel around the globe, all while earning credit towards your degree.
• Community Service-Learning: Combine your classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals, and see first-hand how your academic learning relates to social issues.
• Arts and Science Honours Academy: Be part of a unique program that combines collaborative study, global opportunities, and academic challenge.
• Music Undergraduate Society: Offers a number of services for Music students, including a lesson/clinic/gig referral service for members, as well as fund-raisers and social activities.