Nov 23, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Music, B.A.


Minimum number of credits required to graduate:  124

Minimum Cumulative GPA required to graduate:  2.0

Minimum number of credits to complete the major:  48

Music Major

Merrimack College’s Bachelor of Arts in Music unlocks your creative potential, while providing you with a comprehensive music education. The degree reflects current trends in music production and engineering. You will be introduced to and gain knowledge of music production software and equipment, music composition programs, music theory and history, and more.

In the Music program, you’ll learn to:

  • Analyze and interpret music from around the world in a variety of genres, styles and traditions

  • Develop your theoretical understanding of music composition

  • Create your own original compositions

  • Become proficient in musical performance in at least one vocal or instrumental area

  • Perform publicly at Merrimack, either in an ensemble or in a solo performance

  • Sharpen your critical writing skills about musical history, genres, styles and audiences

Transfer Students to the Music Program

For students transferring into the program, the transfer of music courses and level of placement in the Music program will be determined by the Music Faculty. To ask questions about the process, please contact Laura Moore Pruett, Director of the Music program, by email: pruettl@merrimack.edu

Program Requirements


The bachelor of music is open to all Merrimack students and there are no prerequisites to apply. Auditions are not required and you do not have to be able to read music to declare the music major.

The curriculum for the bachelor of arts in music consists of 48 credits, as specified below. These include 32 credits in required core classes, a 4-credit required experiential learning course, 8 credits of required performance courses, and a 4-credit required additional music elective course.

Required Core Courses


Required Experiential Learning Course


Performance Requirements


Choose from the Following Performance Options

  • VPA Ensembles - Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band, Concert Choir, Schola  (1 credit per ensemble per semester) 
  • Group Lessons (2 credits per semester)
  • Individual Lessons (1 credit per semester)

Additional Music Electives (choose one)