Undergraduate Degrees
Division of Music
B.A. Music
This program is designed for the study of music within a strong liberal arts curriculum. It offers broad coverage of the field of music with emphasis upon the study of the history and theory of music. It furnishes an appropriate background for prospective candidates for advanced degrees who are preparing for non-performance centered careers. It does not qualify the graduate for certification as a public school music teacher.
Student Learning Outcomes
Through the completion of the B.A. in Music, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence in the knowledge and application of music theory and ear training/sight singing.
- Demonstrate proficiency in piano.
- Successfully complete a 15 minute performance exam on their major instrument at the end of the fourth semester of applied lessons.
- Effectively communicate in writing on topics in the area of music history.
- Complete a capstone that consists of a research paper, original composition, or lecture recital.
B.M. Music Education
This is a four-year professional degree for students who intend to make music a career whether as a public school teacher or supervisor of music. The degree provides for many professional opportunities and serves also as preparation for graduate study in music. Upon satisfactory completion of the music education course of study, the student is certified to teach music at both the elementary and secondary levels.
This program will prepare students to be eligible for licensure within the State of Maine. Visit the UMS State Authorization & Licensure page to learn more about the licensure requirements in other states and territories, in addition to the contact information needed to inquire further into the licensure requirements associated with this program.
Student Learning Outcomes
Through the completion of the B.M. in Music Performance, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence in the knowledge and application of music theory and ear training/sight singing.
- Demonstrate proficiency at the piano.
- Demonstrate skill as a conductor.
- Effectively communicate in writing on topics in the area of music history.
- Successfully perform a thirty minute Junior Recital on their major instrument.
- Pass the Praxis Core and Praxis II: Music Content Exam.
- Articulately express a personal philosophy of Music Education.
- Create educationally sound lesson plans.
- Demonstrate knowledge and application of instructional methods as they pertain to instrumental, choral and general music.
- Successfully complete the capstone, which is fifteen weeks of student teaching at the elementary, middle school and high school levels in public schools.
- Apply for licensure to teach music in the state of Maine, which has reciprocal agreements with other states.
B.M. Performance
The Bachelor of Music Degree in Performance is designed to assist the music student to prepare for a career in music performance. The degree is offered for the following applied areas: standard orchestral and band instruments, piano, voice, classical guitar, and pipe organ. Emphasis is placed on performance with supporting studies in music theory, music history and the liberal arts.
Student Learning Outcomes
Through the completion of the B.M. in Music Performance, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence in the knowledge and application of music theory and ear training/sight singing.
- Demonstrate basic conducting skills.
- Effectively communicate in writing on topics in the area of music history.
- Successfully perform a forty-five minute Junior Recital and sixty minute Senior Recital.
- Discuss the repertoire and pedagogy of their instrument in an informed manner.
Information on Hearing Safety and Neuromusculoskeletal/Vocal Health for Students
Division of Theatre/Dance
The Division of Theatre and Dance offers the Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre. Within the context of a liberal arts education, the B.A. in Theatre provides students an opportunity to study acting, directing, design and technology, as well as theatre history, performance studies, and literature. Students with other majors may minor in theatre, and they can also minor in dance as part of their educational experience.
The B.A. in Theatre includes coursework in the social and behavioral sciences, arts and humanities, natural sciences, and mathematics as well as in the performing arts. In addition, students are required to complete one semester of any language.
Study in theatre includes 27 credits in required theatre courses and 6 credits in theatre electives, totaling 33 credits to receive the B.A. degree. The program focus is on learning through active participation in all aspects of performance and production. Many classes culminate in production and performance experiences, including acting, dancing, directing of original scripts, or staging of choreography. The Underdog and Upperdog directing workshops and the annual Maine Masque production give students additional opportunities to test their skills in acting and directing. Furthermore, majors are required to participate in all facets of main stage productions and encouraged to become involved in student-directed shows.
Undergraduate study in Theatre prepares students for graduate work in theatre and dance or in related fields of study. It also prepares students for theatre-related careers on and off stage. Graduates go on to careers as teachers, actors, designers, dancers, directors, technicians, and stage managers. Maine Masque, our student theatre organization, is very active year round.
Student Learning Outcomes
Through completion of the B.A. degree in Theatre, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in one of the following areas of live performance: Acting, Directing, Design, or Theatre Technology.
- Participate in all aspects of performance and production in live theatre.
- Successfully perform in a student showcase.
- Complete a capstone project in a selected area of interest within theatre or dance.