Hey guys, I'm considering a career in music but I'm kind of confused about the difference between Bachelor of Arts in Music and Bachelor of Music degrees. Can anyone help me understand the main differences between them and which one might be a better fit for me?
Hey! Great question. The main differences between a Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA) and a Bachelor of Music (BM) lie in their course structures, focuses, and future career opportunities.
A Bachelor of Arts in Music is typically a more flexible and liberal arts-oriented program. The curriculum generally includes a well-rounded education in music theory, history, and performance, along with courses outside the music discipline like humanities, social sciences, or natural sciences. This degree is ideal for students who are passionate about music but also want to explore other academic disciplines or have an interest in a double major. With a BA in Music, you'll have diverse career options, including music administration, music education, or pursuing a job in a non-music field.
On the other hand, a Bachelor of Music is a more specialized and professionally focused degree that emphasizes performance, composition, or music education. The curriculum is heavily weighted towards music classes, with less room for courses outside the major. Generally, BM programs require more credits in music and have higher performance expectations. This degree is well-suited for students who are committed to a career in performance, composition, or teaching and want to focus solely on improving their musical skills.
To decide which degree might be a better fit for you, consider your future career goals and preferences. If you want to focus exclusively on honing your musical skills and seek a career in music performance, composition, or teaching, then a Bachelor of Music could be a better option. However, if you want a wider range of academic and career possibilities or are considering a double major, a Bachelor of Arts in Music might suit you better.
It's also essential to research the specific programs at colleges you're interested in since program structures and requirements can vary between institutions. Good luck with your decision-making process!
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