<p>I know that the subject of dual degree programs surfaces from time to time on this forum, so feel free to rain down any abuse on me for bringing the subject up one more time. I've reviewed many of the other threads, but some are 3-years and older, so I want to make sure I have up to date information.</p>
<p>S2 has just finished sophomore year in high school; one of his high school's recommended summer assignments is to work up a list of up to 50 potential colleges. The assignment is meant to get the students thinking in very general terms about their future. During the course of Junior year they use the list as the basis to identify characteristics they are looking for in a college. It's a very laid back approach and seems to remove a great deal of stress from the identification/visiting/selection process.</p>
<p>S2 is an accomplished flutist, receiving statewide recognition and performing in local and regional youth symphonies. He has attended a number of flute/music oriented summer camps. Academically he has a 3.8/4.0 GPA. While most of his ECs are centered around music, 3 years ago he started a small business. The business initially was centered around picking up mail, watering plants and walking pets for vacationing neighbors. It has expanded to PC/MAC computer support and producing personalized calenders and planners for students and small businesses. In short he is "coin-operated".</p>
<p>In discussing the college assignment he has expressed interest in getting a dual degree in flute performance and business. Well, perhaps more accurately, at 16 he can't decide what he wants to do with the rest of his life just yet.</p>
<p>He presented his list of 40 colleges to his private flute teacher. She identified 18 schools from his list as "flute" schools of various caliber. I know that some of these schools offer dual degree programs and others are less receptive to the idea. I also know that some of these schools are extremely competitive academically and/or musically. My questions are: Have we left anyone out? Does anyone here have any specific comments/experiences with these schools?</p>
<p>Please note that he prefers a larger, more urban/suburban environment (that's why Oberlin is not on the list), with a strong flute program. </p>
<p>Sorry for the length and thank you all in advance.</p>
<p>The preliminary Flute/Biz List</p>
<p>Arizona State
Bard
Carnegie-Mellon
Indiana
Johns-Hopkins
Miami
Michigan
Michigan State
Minnesota
Northwestern
Notre Dame
NYU
Rice
Rochester
Southern California
Texas
William & Mary
Wisconsin</p>
<p>A couple of general comments on your list: which Texas institution? There are many fine public music programs within the state. William and Mary and Notre Dame usually don’t end up on the typical list compiled for undergrad performance pursuits. While there are reasons they have been earmarked (and supported by his instructor), down the road think seriously about musical peer depth and quality across all instruments. While they may well serve for an avocational pursuit, or a broadening of skills, they may not necessarily be the “best” if one is intent on a performance carer or Masters level pursuit. The comment is not made to denigrate the programs, nor the faculty, just something to consider as you “get closer”. I suggest a thorough reading of <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/258796-so-you-want-music-major-one-familys-experience.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/258796-so-you-want-music-major-one-familys-experience.html</a> if you haven’t already for general knowledge. Rice is not the most supportive institution when it comes to dual pursuits, NYU is a solid program, but historically tightfisted in doling out both need and merit based aid. Bard mandates a second non-music major for performance candidates, but if you think Oberlin is isolated, don’t let the maps fool you. It’s not a picnic getting from Bard to NYC or environs for a student without a car. I’m sure N8Ma will counter me, but at least you will have opposing perspectives. </p>
<p>Among the privates, if you haven’t already take a look at Lawrence, Baldwin-Wallace, potentially Hartt, Dusquesne, Vanderbilt, UDenver. Ithaca and St Olaf may fall within your definition of geographic isolation, but take a peek. Among the publics, Penn State, UMaryland, UColorado Boulder</p>
<p>It’s typically easier to combine a BA with a BM than a science, but for the right person, anything is doable. A business/liberal arts curriculum often can be made a bit “easier” timewise, particularly at larger institutions offering late afternoon & evening classes. It can make for a long day, but often these class requirements are offered in non typical times, freeing up required day time for performance requirements. Just something to file away.</p>
<p>Additionally, you may wish to look at some of the music/music business/management dual offerings, which may or may not offer enough “business” based on how the programs are structured. </p>
<p>violadad, thank you for the quick response.</p>
<p>First of all the Texas = Univ. Texas- Austin.</p>
<p>After S2 submitted the list to his teacher I spoke to her and asked that she include a range of schools in her assessment. Some of the of the schools are well known for their flute programs and less so for a business degree, the opposite is also true. My goal is to have a range of options from superlative flute with so-so business to exceptional business/OK flute teacher but with chances to perform, with that list in place my son could then move through the list as his goals became clearer.</p>
<p>My primary area of concern is institutional (teacher) support, without that dual degree success seems unlikely. At this stage, your comments on Rice and NYU are exactly the bits of information I’m looking for. I’ll also look into the other programs you mentioned, thank you again.</p>