Even though your focus will lean toward liberal arts, your major will also accommodate the required studio lessons and performance skill development. If you excel in your program, you may be invited to earn your degree with distinction. This requires a high GPA, independent work, and a large-scale project.
Major in music history and cultures
Sample Courses
- Introduction to Music History
- European Music from 1750-1914
- Introduction to World Music
- Musicology in Action
- Diatonic Harmony
- Ear Training
Practical Experience
Seize opportunities to do community volunteering and professional internships—on campus, off campus, or internationally. Academic counselors and faculty advisors will guide you in aligning your interests and academic path with opportunities for growth.
Turn to the College of Arts and Sciences’ Center for Innovative Learning (iLEARN) for support with educational programs and your undergraduate research activities. The center can help complement your traditional classroom and laboratory work with enhanced out-of-classroom learning experiences.
There are more than 300 recognized student organizations at Syracuse University, including many that are specifically related to music. Explore other themes too, including art, culture, language, advocacy, government, religion, and service.
Study Abroad
SU Abroad features more than 100 programs in 60 countries. You can choose semester, summer, short term, and yearlong options for international study.
As a music history and cultures major, you are strongly encouraged to spend a semester or year abroad. SU’s Centers in London, Istanbul, Santiago, and Strasbourg all offer courses in music.
Life After Syracuse University
As a College of Arts and Sciences graduate with a major in music history and cultures, you can explore such careers as:
- Music education
- Music historian
- College professor
- Music librarian
- Archivist
- Conservator
You can also pursue graduate training in such areas as education, arts administration, music journalism, and more. Recent graduates of the program have attended some of the top graduate schools in the U.S.