Kansas Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The programme blends core music study with liberal arts coursework to develop musicianship, performance and pedagogical skills. Students take sequential coursework in aural skills, music theory, music history, and music technology alongside private applied lessons on their principal instrument or voice.

• Applied lessons and studio practice leading to juries and senior recitals
• Ensemble participation (choirs, instrumental ensembles, musical theatre productions and chamber groups)
• Aural skills/ear training, sight‑reading and keyboard musicianship
• Music theory sequence from basic harmony to advanced analysis
• Survey courses in music history and literature
• Introduction to composition and arranging, plus use of music software and recording basics
• Courses in theatre, musical theatre performance, stagecraft and collaboration between music and theatre students
• Pedagogy and methods courses for those pursuing K–12 or private teaching careers, including practicum or student‑teaching components for education tracks
• Capstone experiences such as senior recitals, directed research projects or collaborative productions

The degree is typically structured across four years with options to combine major study with a second major or minor in areas such as theatre, education, business or music technology.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor’s in Music programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of general admission procedures for Kansas Wesleyan University. In addition to university admission, music applicants are usually required to:

• Audition: An audition on the principal instrument or voice demonstrates performance level and potential; repertoire requirements are provided by the department.
• Academic transcripts: High school transcripts to confirm academic preparation.
• Placement or theory assessment: Incoming students may complete a music theory/ear training placement to determine appropriate course level.
• Letters of recommendation or a brief interview may be requested to assess fit and motivation.

Prospective music education candidates should check specific certification pathways and state licensure requirements, as these may require additional coursework or examinations beyond the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme pursue a range of careers in performance, education and the arts. Typical pathways include:

• Music teacher in schools (many graduates combine the degree with teacher‑licensure routes where required)
• Performer in solo, ensemble, choral or musical theatre settings
• Church musician, worship leader or accompanist
• Arts administrator, community arts coordinator or events programmer
• Composer, arranger or studio musician working with music technology
• Graduate study in performance, conducting, musicology, composition or education

Students also develop transferable skills—communication, collaboration, project management and public presentation—that support careers outside the music sector.

Why study at Kansas Wesleyan University

Kansas Wesleyan offers a small, student‑centred learning environment where music and theatre students receive close personalised instruction from faculty and frequent performance opportunities. The programme emphasises collaborative projects between music and theatre, allowing students to gain practical stage experience as well as academic grounding.

• Small class sizes and accessible faculty mentorship support rapid skill development and individualised programme planning.
• Regular ensemble seasons, recitals and musical theatre productions give students many chances to perform and build professional portfolios.
• A liberal arts foundation encourages interdisciplinary study, so students can combine music with education, theatre or other academic interests.
• Community engagement and regional performance links provide practical experience in arts leadership and outreach.

Together, these features make Kansas Wesleyan a strong choice for students seeking an applied music education within a supportive liberal‑arts context.