Ohio Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The programme provides a balance of core musicianship, applied study and liberal arts coursework. Students follow sequential courses in music theory, aural skills and music history, alongside private lessons on their principal instrument or voice. Regular ensemble participation—such as choir, chamber ensembles, concert band, orchestra and theatre pit ensembles—is a central part of the curriculum.

• Core musicianship: music theory, ear training, score reading and music history/survey courses.
• Applied study: weekly private lessons, studio classes and required juries or recitals.
• Performance and ensembles: chamber music, large ensembles, solo recital requirement and collaborative performance with theatre productions.
• Composition and arranging: composition seminars, opportunities to have work performed and basic arranging/orchestration.
• Music technology and production: courses in recording, notation software, digital audio workstations and music production techniques.
• Theatre-related study: coursework and practical opportunities in musical theatre, stagecraft and collaborative projects with the Department of Theatre.
• Liberal arts electives: humanities, social sciences and other arts electives to broaden contextual knowledge and transferable skills.

Students typically assemble a degree plan with a faculty adviser and culminate their studies with public performances, senior recitals or capstone projects that may integrate composition, theatre collaboration or applied research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent and a strong academic record demonstrating readiness for college‑level work. Admission to the music programme normally requires evidence of musical ability and commitment in addition to general admission to the university.

• Academic transcripts showing a solid college‑preparatory programme.
• An audition (live or recorded) on principal instrument or voice demonstrating technical facility and musicality; repertoire requirements vary by area and are provided by the department.
• For composition applicants, submission of scores and recordings or portfolio examples of original work is typically requested.
• Letters of recommendation (academic or musical) and a personal statement outlining musical background and goals.
• Placement examinations in theory/ear training may be required upon entry to determine appropriate course level.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Department of Music for detailed audition guidelines and to discuss scholarship and assistantship opportunities; the department frequently accepts recorded auditions for applicants who cannot audition in person.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of specialised musical skills and broad liberal‑arts competencies valued by employers. Common career paths include:

• Professional performer (solo, chamber, orchestral or theatre work).
• Music educator at the K–12 level (usually requiring additional teacher certification) or private studio teacher.
• Composer, arranger or songwriter for concert, media and theatre projects.
• Music production and sound engineering roles in recording or live sound.
• Arts administration, producing, programming and community arts leadership roles.
• Further graduate study in performance, composition, musicology, music therapy or music education.

The department’s emphasis on performance, collaboration with the theatre programme and internships helps graduates build networks and practical experience applicable to careers in the performing and presenting arts.

Why study at Ohio Wesleyan University

Ohio Wesleyan offers a close-knit liberal arts environment with personalised instruction and frequent performance opportunities. Small class sizes and one‑to‑one lessons ensure tailored mentoring from faculty who are active performers, composers and scholars.

• Performance focus: numerous ensemble and recital opportunities, plus collaboration with theatre productions for students interested in musical theatre and pit work.
• Interdisciplinary learning: the liberal arts curriculum supports study across disciplines—composition, dramatic arts, languages and history—to deepen artistic context and career flexibility.
• Facilities and resources: access to practice rooms, rehearsal spaces, recording and notation technology, and public performance venues on campus.
• Location and connections: proximity to regional arts scenes and internship possibilities that allow students to gain real‑world experience beyond campus.
• Support for further study: preparation for conservatory and graduate programmes through intensive applied study and senior recital/capstone experience.

Overall, Ohio Wesleyan’s Bachelor’s in Music suits students who want a rigorous musical education embedded in a broad liberal arts setting with strong ties to theatrical practice and community engagement.