Houghton music student playing cello on stage.

Music with Non-Music Elective Studies Major

Prepare to welcome your love of music to a flexible future.

Embrace your passion for music while moving towards your desired career path. With Houghtonโ€™s Bachelor of Music in Non-Music Elective Studies, youโ€™ll experience a versatile curriculum that wonโ€™t limit your ambitions. Embark on a journey as you discover musicโ€™s impact over a wide range of discipline possibilities that impact the world in critical and unique ways.

Degree Snapshot

Undergraduate - Bachelors

Degree Types: BMus

Program Credits: 128 Credits

Explore Courses & Degree RequirementsCareersMeet the Faculty

What will I learn?

Through Houghtonโ€™s degree in Music you will:

  • Combine your passion for music with your other talents and career aspirations
  • Explore innovative ways to use your skills in music in a diverse job market
  • Understand the responsibilities within certain discipline paths
  • Analyze the importance of music in everyday life
  • Realize your potential to embrace the workforce through a unique and creative lens
  • Perform recitals and additional performances

Why study Music with Non-Music Elective Studies at Houghton?

The Options are Endless

Allow your mind to fearlessly choose between a variety of career paths including:
Religion/Theology, Global Studies, Natural Sciences, Business, Psychology and or Recreation, Communication, Humanities.

A Reputable Name in Music

From its dedicated faculty and top-notch facilities, Houghton is a top accredited member of NASM (National Association of Schools of Music), the principal U.S. accreditor for music in higher education.

Courses & Degree Requirements

Popular Courses


MBCM 121 Music Technology Basics

Musicians should be prepared for any situation. The biggest challenge for musicians now is learning new tech skills as technology changes rapidly. This class teaches the basics of music technology that today's musicians need. Learn the basics of hardware and software for live, acoustic and digital audio, as well as sound reinforcement, sequencing, and notation. This class will help you make smart choices as you use these tools with real examples and hands-on practice.

MUS 250 Music in a Christian Perspective

Study music in the context of the Christian worldview. Examine the biblical, philosophical, and scientific bases for musical creativity. Explore music in a professional perspective and discuss the role of music in society.

MCHU 151 Melodic Improvisation

Improve your melodic improvisation skills in harmony and rhythm. Practice different musical styles and create a cohesive worship service experience. You will learn how to guide others in developing their improvisation skills through hands-on experience.

Degree Options


BMus - 128 credits

81-96 Credits
Required Courses

32-47 credits
General Education and Non-Music Electives

Degree Requirements

BMus - Pre-Music Therapy Interest

128 credits

96 Credits
Required Courses

32 credits
General Education and Non-Music Electives

Degree Requirements - Pre-Music Therapy Interest

Meet a Faculty Member

What can I do with a degree in music?

Career Opportunities

Students earning a BMus degree in Music with Non-Music Elective Studies from Houghton University are prepared to for careers as:

Graduate School

Master's degree options for Music majors:

8%

Career growth for Producers and Directors.

From 2023 to 2033 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Houghton students throwing their graduation caps in the air on the steps of the Chapel.

96%

of Houghton students are employed or in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.

Class of 2024

View Alumni Success and Career Outcomes

Related Majors

Student playing the piano on a dimmed stage.

Music Composition

Undergraduate - BMus
Houghton University Music Teacher in the classroom helping a student with the piano.

Music Education

Undergraduate - BMus
Houghton University music major student playing violin at Christmas PRISM concert.

Music Performance

Undergraduate - BMus

Ready for what's next?

Discover if earning your degree in Music with Non-Music Elective Studies from Houghton University is right for you.


Questions?