BA Music at Rice University

Programme overview

BA Music is a undergraduate degree programme at Rice University in Music (Shepherd School of Music). At the undergraduate level, the Shepherd School of Music offers both professional training and a broad liberal arts curriculum. Degree programs include a BA degree in music and a BMus degree in performance, composition, orchestral conducting, music history, and music theory. The degree totals 120 credit hours.

Faculty: Shepherd School of Music | Department: Music | Study mode: full-time | Location: Houston, TX, United States

What you will study

A minimum of 19 courses (43-51 credit hours, depending on course selection) to satisfy major requirements. A minimum of 120 credit hours to satisfy degree requirements. A minimum of 14 courses (30 credit hours) taken at the 300-level or above. A minimum major GPA of 2.00 or higher in all coursework that satisfies requirements for the major.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The Shepherd School does not admit students to the BA degree with a major in Music. It is provided as an option for those BMus performance majors who no longer wish to pursue the performance degree.

USD 71,140 a year (2026-27). Standard undergraduate tuition for students entering 2024 or later (students who entered before 2024 pay $65,280); one rate for all undergraduate majors and all students. Estimate; excludes student activity, recreation and health and wellness fees, room a Source

Entry term is Fall. Early Decision I and II and Regular Decision are offered.

Early Decision I closes November 1 with decisions by mid-December; Early Decision II and Regular Decision close January 4, Regular Decision decisions by April 1. The application fee is $75. SAT/ACT scores are optional (recommended, not required).

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