Music as a minor/major?

College Majors Music Major
1

I’m trying to figure out what would be best for me to do. Right now I’m a sophomore and a good bit along the major trajectory in both art and the STEM field I’m pursuing as well as going abroad specifically for that STEM major during my next term (trimester system). However, I’ve taken a few music lessons at my school last year, know how to play two instruments (guitar and piano and much better at guitar than piano), and am currently enrolled in a music class that I really like.

I wanted to know if it’d be possible if I’d be able to pursue a higher-ed (grad school) degree for music with only a music minor in undergrad. It may still be possible for me to double major in both fields but it would require a lot of work and planning (especially because of going abroad) and I wanted to know if it’d be worth it to major in it or if I could still pursue further education in music with only a minor so it would allow me to take a larger variety of classes, would guarantee that I can have something to my name in terms of a college education in music, and possibly allow me to still double in the other two fields.

Is it wise to try to major and pile on a lot of music classes each term if I’m not completely sure about it? Would a music minor work just as fine for what I would hope to pursue? Does a minor matter to grad schools in that subject or to employers?

More info that’s maybe related:

  • At highly rated liberal arts college (top 10)
  • Further along in both the STEM field I’m pursuing and Studio Art majors which is what I initially planned to double major in
2

I would continue to take lessons and any electives you can fit in. It’s hard to do two majors, but covering three areas of study may be difficult. If you are at Amherst or another college without gen eds, it is easier.

Guitar is different from many instruments in that it is often played alone. Are you in any ensembles?

I do know people who did a master’s in music after a STEM major as an undergrad. It is not something you see frequently, but it is certainly possible.

Did you play before college or are you new to music?

3

Question: What do you want to do with a degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) in music? Is a music degree required? Or is simply experience required? Do you know anyone pursuing your “musical dream”? You may want to ask them what is “required” to do what they do from an educational stand-point?

If you want to be a concert pianist, you will need a music degree (to get to the highest levels). If you want to gig with your guitar, you do not need a degree. In this case, it may work fine to get a good private teacher and study music on the side (with some undergrad courses too).

Without knowing your end goal, it’s hard to give a recommendation.