<p>Right now im looking at either Rice or WashU and I can't seem to decide. Rice is more attractive to me right now because of their music program but I want to also major in biology. So please help me with some questions...
1. How rigorous is their music program? Is a double major in music and biology do-able?</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Within their music program, how strong is the piano division?</p></li>
<li><p>Is their music degree accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music?</p></li>
<li><p>Do they hold auditions for music majors?</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Yes, Rice holds auditions for their music department (The Shepherd School of Music). It’s reputation is excellent, and rivals many conservatories. </p>
<p>My D has a friend at WashU, who loves it there, but has been disappointed with their music department. WashU is more of an LAC than a music school.</p>
<p>What year are you in HS? Are you just beginning your search?</p>
<p>I am a junior in high school right now and i’ve been looking at different colleges since i think about the beginning of this year. WashU especially caught my attention until I learned more about Rice. I’ll be graduating in 2012.</p>
<p>Majoring in Bio and music is possible, but will be challenging. Unlike other majors (such as bio and engineering) where you are admitted to Rice University and then choose your major, you have to be admitted to the music school in order to study music. Once you get in to Shepherd, you can take classes/majors in anything else at Rice. You have to be a music student first though.</p>