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About the BA in Music Degree

Why Study Music at Cedarville?

Develop the musical gifts God has given you, and unlock your potential with a distinctly Christian Bachelor of Arts in music degree. At Cedarville, Bach's famous phrase "Soli Deo Gloria" — for the glory of God alone — is more than just a slogan. It's the mission that drives all we do as we seek to honor the Master Creator through our craft. More than just pursuing your passion, you'll be challenged to deepen your understanding of music and serve God with your talents.

In this nationally accredited program, you'll be mentored and inspired by accomplished professors. Tailor your education to match your unique interests by choosing primary and secondary concentrations. Whatever focus you choose, you'll receive training in a range of musical styles. The real-world skills and knowledge you gain will more than prepare you for your career or further studies in graduate school. Graduates of Cedarville's music program are well-equipped to serve as teachers, composers, studio musicians, and more.

If you're passionate about music but pursuing another major, further your knowledge with a music minor! You'll gain practical experience that solidifies your ability to worship God through your musical gifts.

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What Sets Cedarville Apart?

Program Overview

Program Highlights

Performance or Research — You can select from two tracks:

  • Recital track for those interested in performing a senior recital
  • Research track for those interested in presenting a senior capstone project

Customizable — You will choose a primary and secondary concentration to customize your degree to your interests: performance, composition, worship, music history, music technology, jazz and improvisation, or open music studies.

Expandable — General studies credits within the major allow you to add specialized courses from any other academic area.

Future-focused — Ideally suited for a musically talented student who wants to pursue a graduate program that will accept any bachelor's degree (such as law, international studies, or music therapy).

Selective (audition required) — You will be accepted into the music program — and be eligible for a department scholarship — based on a successful  audition with music faculty.

Students playing in the orchestra

Soli Deo Gloria Music Scholarships

Cedarville University offers music scholarships of up to $6,000 per year for students majoring in music. You can combine your music scholarship with Cedarville’s other generous academic and need-based scholarships.

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What Can You Do With a Music Degree?

You will be prepared for graduate school, private teaching, ministry, and many other pursuits.

Graduate and professional programs and employers welcome Cedarville University graduates each year. It is important to note that some professional career fields you may pursue require additional education, experience, and/or licensure beyond the completion of your Cedarville University undergraduate degree.

Placement Success

We’re proud of our successful graduates! 95.2% of recent graduates from the Department of Music and Worship were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. Check out Cedarville's other placement rates.

Cedarville's Placement Rates

Opportunities to Learn Outside the Classroom

You'll have many opportunities to use and develop your gifts in the Department of Music and Worship, from private lessons to public performances and recording experiences. Explore the range of music and worship ensembles that you can get involved with:

Program Curriculum

Building on your general education liberal arts and Bible minor courses, you will take courses from your chosen concentration: performance, composition, worship, music history, music technology, jazz and improvisation, or open music studies (a self-designed course of academic study in music).

This major is offered with either a three-year or four-year completion plan.

This major offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway for students interested in pursuing their MBA.

Sample courses:

  • Introduction to Music Theory and Aural Skills
  • Music Philosophy and Aesthetics

Start Your Degree in High School!

Save time and money in college by taking dual enrollment courses now. Discover how you can complete your music degree in just three years with the Dual Enrollment 3-Year Pathway.

Explore the Dual Enrollment Pathway

Program Format and Related Programs

Cedarville offers both graduate and undergraduate programs, with flexible completion options. You may also want to consider these related programs as you consider the degree or program that is a best fit for you.

Program Level and Format

  • Undergraduate
  • Residential
  • 3-Year Option
  • 4-Year
Conductor and orchestra

From Our Students:

  • The faculty is one of the biggest blessings of studying music at Cedarville. They are all godly men and women who lead by example for their students in all that they do. Whether they are developing our skills musically or guiding us spiritually, the willingness of the faculty to disciple us and care for us personally is evident in every lesson, class, and concert. I have learned how to humbly pursue excellence, discipline, and creativity for God's glory.
    Antonio Muñoz '21
    Antonio Munoz
Job and Grad School Placement

Program Faculty

Photo of Beth Porter

Beth Porter, MA

Chair, Associate Professor of Vocal Music

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Photo of Chet Jenkins

Chet Jenkins, DMA

Assistant Professor of Music; Director of Wind Symphony and Jazz Band

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Photo of John Mortensen

John Mortensen, DMA

Professor of Music

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Photo of Sandy Yang

Sandy Yang, PhD

Professor of Music History

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Department of Music and Worship
School of Arts and Humanities

Program News

  • Matt Papa performing with Cedarville singers and musicians in concert in the Jeremiah Chapel

    Cedarville Stories: Loving Well is the Music That Moves Him

    Modern-day hymn writer. Famous friends. Creative life. Influencer of the next generation. Singer-songwriter Matt Papa has a lot going for him. But when it comes down to it, it's his faithfulness with those nearest and dearest that really frames his life.
  • Female pianist accompanying a female soloist

    Worship Culture Creates Songwriting Minor

    The new songwriting minor will be offered this fall and include seven classes, four of which are new classes to the music and worship department specifically created for the minor.