Performance
Required courses in music (4 hours): MUS 501, 502
In addition to the required courses in music, the program of study includes eight hours in the principal area of performance and two to six hours in music history and literature. Students pursuing a piano performance concentration must take at least four hours of MUS 565 (Advanced Piano Ensemble-Accompanying and Chamber Music). Students pursuing a jazz performance concentration must take at least four hours of MUS 566 (Instrumental Ensemble) and MUS 509 Advanced Jazz Arranging/Composition (two hours). Students pursuing voice, choral conducting, and piano majors following the chamber music/accompanying option must take MUS 539 Advanced Diction (two hours). Additionally, choral conducting students must take four credit hours of MUS 540Q Applied Voice.
Electives: Up to four hours in the principal applied area and, with approval of the graduate advisor, may include courses outside the field of music to a total of six hours. Additional elective hours as needed to complete the minimum program requirement of 32 hours.
Graduate Recital (1 to 4 hours): MUS 590
Accompanying majors will perform three recitals of ensemble music, including both vocal and instrumental repertoire.
Career Outlook
Competition in the music industry is keen. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job prospects to grow by eight percent over the next eight years. Talented individuals who are skilled in multiple instruments and musical styles will have the best job prospects. The growth of the Internet and other new forms of media may provide independent musicians and singers with alternative methods for distributing their music and making a profit. The BLS predicts graduates who wish to teach music will find a competitive but healthy job market.
SIUE’s Career Development Center maintains strong connections with regional and national education associations to help students explore employment options upon graduation.
