Susquehanna University Expands Music Program Offerings with New Minors and Course Structures
Susquehanna University is bolstering its music department with a diverse range of new minors and refined course structures, designed to provide students with specialized training and flexible learning pathways. The changes, outlined in a recent excerpt from the university’s course catalog, aim to cater to a wider spectrum of musical interests and career aspirations.
Students enrolling at Susquehanna will benefit from personalized guidance, being paired with both an advisor and an application tool to streamline course planning and scheduling. According to the university, enrolled students are expected to adhere to the course catalog requirements for the academic year in which they declare their major or minor, while also receiving individualized consultation from their academic advisors.
A Spectrum of Musical Minors
The Department of Music now offers six distinct minors, providing focused study in specialized areas. These include music theory/literature, music performance, music technology, church music, collaborative piano, and an interdisciplinary minor of arts administration. This expansion reflects a commitment to nurturing a broad range of musical talents and interests.
Deep Dive into Music Production
A particularly noteworthy addition is the minor in music production. However, prospective students should be aware that declaring this minor requires prior approval from the music technology advisor. A university spokesperson cautioned that “approval of this minor does not guarantee a place in the required music classes,” highlighting the competitive nature of specialized coursework.
To complete the music production minor, students must achieve a grade of C- or better in 20 semester hours of coursework, encompassing:
- MUSC-355 Audio Engineering Fundamentals
- MUSC-356 Music Production in the Recording Studio
- MUSC-367 Computer Music Composition
- MUSC-368 Computer Music Performance
- 4 semester hours dedicated to an internship or additional music electives.
Navigating Course Credit and Restrictions
Students pursuing a music technology minor must also be mindful of a double-counting restriction. The university stipulates that only 8 semester hours from the minor can be applied toward a music major, encouraging students to broaden their academic horizons.
Applied Music Lessons: A Tiered System
The university has clarified the structure of applied music lessons, which carry either one or two semester hours of credit. Students earn one semester hour for each weekly half-hour lesson. The credit allocation varies based on the student’s major:
- Bachelor of Arts majors receive one semester hour for lessons on their major instrument.
- Music education and performance majors receive two semester hours for a weekly one-hour lesson on their major instrument.
It’s important to note that a fee is charged per semester for individual lessons not explicitly included as curricular requirements, such as those taken by non-majors or as supplemental instruction for majors. These lessons are subject to faculty availability and normal teaching loads.
These changes demonstrate Susquehanna University’s dedication to providing a comprehensive and adaptable music education, preparing students for success in a dynamic and evolving field.
