This topic was raised several years ago and I am reaching out to confirm my understanding and that nothing of substance has changed on the topic:
A BA has more general education requirements (compared to the BM or BFA) … while
a BM would focus more on music courses (relative to the BA or BFA) … while lastly with
a BFA degree, anywhere from about 60% to 95% of the student’s total coursework is MT-related (compared to the BA or BM).
In every instance, the curricula for the MT programs being considered should be reviewed regardless of whether it offers a MA, BM or BFA degree
Agreed - although I would add to the BM that there are more music theory courses (I believe BFA MTs have similar music classes in some programs).
I think in a very general sense you are somewhat correct. But I would caution you not to lump all BA programs or all BM programs or all BFA programs together. Not all are created equally. Rather, really study each school’s curriculum to see if you will get the courses and training you desire. Some BM degrees have daily intensive dance while others may have little to none. Some BAs may have a lot of performance classes while others may concentrate on the the history of theater, Some BFAs may not provide the specific skills training you are looking for. So rather than focus on the letters of the degree, focus on the required classes at each school and make sure the programs you choose offer the training you seek.
Definitely check courses for individual schools you are interested in! D is doing summer stock with people from multiple schools (graduates and current students) - one of her new friends is at a very well regarded program and has never taken a tap class - they don’t have any tap classes. I was shocked when she told me, as was she when she found out!
Another thing we looked at was BA-only programs might mean more attention and performance opportunities, versus a BA program at a school that also offers BFAs. Where for some schools, the kids are all lumped together in classes regardless of degree, at others the BA is more of a non-performance track.
Definitely look at the curriculum list. My daughter chose a BA program over a BFA because the school was a better fit. Her classes this fall are voice, theatre tech, and acting with one academic class. The reason the school does not offer the BFA is size and limited dance classes. However, there are a myriad of performance opportunities and it is in a decent sized city that has a multitude of opportunities for dance training. When it comes to decision time I can’t stress enough the importance of a 1. visit 2. interview of the program chair 3. comparison of the programs. Only do this after the acceptances come in.
@Brightsaral, could you share the name of your daughter’s school? Feel free to PM me. Thanks!
My son will be pursuing a BFA in theater tech. 90 of his 120 credits are in the BFA and he has to take 10 gen ed classes.