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Explore the music bachelor's degree program at UW-Eau Claire

Turn your passion for music into a rewarding career with a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

As one of the largest undergraduate music programs in the region, we offer countless opportunities for learning and professional growth. Participate in one of the largest marching bands in the country, join one of our many student organizations, sing in an a cappella group, study abroad, conduct music-related research alongside a faculty member or help run one of the biggest jazz festivals in the nation. With over 200 performances each year, you have plenty of chances to perform, experience new things, expand your network and build your resume.

The renowned program was designed for students who have a strong interest in music but would like to combine it with other passions. With this program, students explore another major, minor or certificate in another area of study — from psychology to history to business. Many students pursuing a major in music and combine it with one of our recording arts or arts administration certificates. 

No matter your path, here at UW-Eau Claire, you won't be just a number. Highly trained, student-focused faculty will help you to develop your musical skills and find your niche. Through unique projects and assignments, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the history and evolution of music. Dozens of guest artists who present to the department annually will offer special classes, masterclasses and performance opportunities every year. And small class sizes allow for meaningful relationships and a more personalized education.

Discover the power of music in Eau Claire

From the professors who teach you to the students who work alongside you, a love for music is not hard to find when you’re at UW-Eau Claire. And that love isn't just isolated to our campus. In fact, Eau Claire is nationally recognized for its abundance of music festivals, events and venues. 

“The entire town is being driven by the arts and we are thoroughly integrated into the community," said jazz studies director Robert Baca. "Community members are here all the time teaching us what's happening in the community and we're out there helping them as well.”

See what opportunities await you here in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. 

Why music at UW-Eau Claire?

A city that embraces music. The Eau Claire community welcomes UW-Eau Claire music students and invites them to become a part of the rich and vibrant music scene of Eau Claire. Here, you’ll have access to countless productions and on-stage experiences made possible thanks to our partnership with Pablo Center at the Confluence. Discover the Eau Claire Jazz Festival — the largest student-run festival in the nation — and the Viennese Ball, where music students like you provide the soundtrack to a night of Austrian specialties and Viennese waltzes.

Leadership experience. At UW-Eau Claire, you will have opportunities to take on leadership roles in a number of productions, like the long-running and student-directed "Cabaret." Or help manage one of 20 student clubs and organizations dedicated to celebrating music, theatre and dance. Whether it’s in the classroom, on stage or on the football field with the Blugold Marching Band, the chance to explore music and all it has to offer is within your reach.

Access to internships. A departmental internship coordinator is available to help you line up valuable professional experiences, such as those within the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra, Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild, Mayo Health System or Eaux Claires Festival. Experiences like these are excellent ways to learn new skills, explore job possibilities and expand your professional network. 

One-of-a-kind spaces. UWEC is home to four performance venues, six music classrooms, 36 practice rooms, an audio recording studio, a music technology lab, a digital piano lab and several rehearsal rooms. We are also proud to partner with the Eau Claire community's newest performance venue, Pablo Center at the Confluence. This state-of-the-art facility hosts many UWEC classes, rehearsals and performances.

Opportunities to travel. Music majors regularly have the chance to travel domestically and internationally to interact and perform with other musicians. All of the major ensembles tour in the region annually and recent international trips have included performances in Australia, Singapore, Portugal and Italy. 

Student-focused faculty and collaborative learning. UW-Eau Claire's outstanding faculty create a supportive and collaborative learning environment where you are the top priority. Here, you'll receive one-on-one attention and the chance to foster relationships with talented musicians that will continue long after graduation. 

30+

departmental ensembles

250 performances annually

of music, theatre, and dance

20

music, dance and theatre student orgs

100% employed

or continuing education after graduation

2021-2022 Graduate Report

Quick facts

Music program details
  • Program length: four years
  • Offered: in person
  • Campus: Eau Claire
  • This major requires a minor or certificate.
  • This program is also available as a minor.
  • Students majoring in this program may choose either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
Student organizations
  • Blugold Ringers
  • Clarinet Studio Organization
  • Fifth Element
  • Innocent Men
  • Gospel Choir
  • National Band Association Collegiate Chapter
  • Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (PMA)
  • Sigma Alpha Iota (SAI)
  • Blugold Athletic Band  
  • Blugold Marching Band 

Accreditation information

All music degrees from UW-Eau Claire have been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

What can I do with a music degree from UWEC?

UW-Eau Claire's music majors are experiencing success all over the world. Graduates go on to work for music schools, perform with renowned orchestras or start their own businesses. Having an extensive, well-rounded liberal education provides you with the flexibility to pick your own career path.

Where are music alumni now?

Music careers

Music bachelor’s degree program curriculum

Being a part of UW-Eau Claire’s first-rate music program will give you the experience — and confidence — needed to tackle your future endeavors. A required minor or certificate in another area of study allows you to explore other passions and opens doors to even more career paths. Pair your music major with a major in theatre arts, a minor in business or a certificate in arts administration or the recording arts.  

What classes do music majors take?

Your classes may cover topics like: 

Learn more about the music major in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about the music minor in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about UWEC

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Related programs at UW-Eau Claire

Thinking about a bachelor’s degree in music? Here are other programs you may be interested in exploring.

Department information

Photo of a camera in front of theatre seats

Music and Theatre Arts

Haas Fine Arts Center 156
121 Water Street
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Visit the Music and Theatre Arts department website