Belhaven University

What you'll study

The programme combines applied performance, music theory and history, music technology and theatre-related coursework to prepare students for careers in performance, composition and music leadership. Core study typically includes private applied lessons, ensemble participation (choirs, bands, orchestras, chamber groups and musical theatre casts), aural skills and solfège, harmony and counterpoint, and courses in music history and literature. Students also take modules in composition and arranging, conducting, music business and recording arts.

• Applied Lessons: weekly one-to-one instruction culminating in juries and a senior recital or capstone project.
• Ensembles and Performance Practicum: large ensembles, chamber groups and musical theatre productions providing regular public performance experience.
• Music Theory & Aural Skills: progressive coursework in harmony, analysis and ear training.
• Music History & Literature: survey and genre-focused courses covering Western art music, popular music, jazz and sacred music traditions.
• Music Technology & Recording: fundamentals of audio production, digital music notation, studio practice and live sound.
• Music Theatre & Stagecraft: acting for singers, movement, audition technique and elements of stage production.
• Capstone / Senior Recital: students present a senior recital, theatre showcase or portfolio demonstrating integrated professional skills.
• General Education: liberal arts courses in humanities, sciences and Bible/theology consistent with Belhaven's curriculum.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the undergraduate degree programme and requires a completed secondary-school qualification (high school diploma, A-levels or equivalent). Applicants must submit transcripts and typically provide a reference. Prospective music majors are required to audition and may be asked to submit a recording or portfolio; the audition evaluates technical skill, repertoire, sight-reading and musicality. Some programmes include a theory/placement assessment. International applicants should demonstrate English proficiency in line with the university's requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of music- and theatre-related careers. Common paths include:

• Professional performer (solo, ensemble, orchestral or musical theatre)
• Music educator (classroom teaching with additional teacher certification where required)
• Worship leader and church music director
• Composer, arranger or songwriter
• Audio engineer, studio technician or live-sound specialist
• Arts administrator, producer or stage manager
• Further study at graduate level in performance, composition, conducting or music education

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a close-knit conservatory-style environment with small classes, frequent one-to-one instruction and abundant performance opportunities across campus and the region. The university emphasises a Christian worldview integrated with artistic training, supporting students in vocational development and personal formation. Students benefit from dedicated rehearsal and recital spaces, recording facilities, faculty who are active performers and educators, and internship and touring opportunities that connect classroom learning with professional practice. The programme's combination of practical training and liberal-arts breadth prepares graduates for both immediate entry into the music and theatre professions and for postgraduate study.