BM Music at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The B.M. degree is for students who aspire to academic excellence and an advanced performance level. The B.M. degree is designed for exceptionally talented performers. It requires considerably more performance credits and slightly fewer courses in theoretical disciplines.

Faculty: Arts Division | Department: Music | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include Theory, Literature, and Musicianship I, Theory, Literature, and Musicianship II, Theory, Literature, and Musicianship III, Ear Training, Fundamental Keyboard Skills, Western Music History (c. 1150 - 1750).

Career pathways

The B.A. degree offers a uniquely diverse curriculum, with the option of completing a concentration in either “Compositional Practices,” “Global Musics,” or “Western Music.” The B.M. degree is designed for students who intend to pursue a career in music performance.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): In order to qualify for the music major, students must successfully complete MUSC 30A with a grade of "C" or better. A "Pass" grade is also acceptable since letter grades are not required for lower-division courses.

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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