Music BA

Ramapo College provides a distinctly forward-thinking approach to music education, which embraces inclusive and interdisciplinary teaching philosophies, widely diverse creative and performance opportunities, and advanced technologies in a liberal arts environment. A uniquely progressive foundation in musicianship and music history enables students to delve into popular music, European art music and music from around the world.  Students develop entrepreneurial strategies to turn their passions into successful careers. Faculty mentors encourage music majors to explore combining music concentrations, flexible course options, independent projects, or teacher certification. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to earn a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Music Technology through our 4+1 program.  

Ramapo music majors study with professors who have internationally prestigious careers as producers, composers, performers, directors, managers, technologists and researchers. Explore and develop skills in leading-edge studio facilities, and establish the foundation for a post-college music career through our highly regarded internship program that enables students to gain professional experience with top level music companies in New York City. Join our diverse, creative musical community and make your contribution to shaping the future of music.

Music Education prepares students for careers teaching music. The progressive curriculum balances traditional and contemporary music studies with a global perspective, diverse hands-on experiences, creative teaching projects, and individualized instruction. With this forward leaning and flexible foundation, students are prepared for success in today’s diverse music classrooms. Students have the option to complete Teacher Certification through the Teacher Education program in coordination with the Music Education concentration.

Music Industry prepares students for careers in the contemporary music business. The curriculum features studies in music copyright, music publishing and recording industries, music marketing, promotion, touring and live concerts, digital media and data science. The relationship of music, business, and technology in the rapidly changing digital media landscape is strongly emphasized. Music Industry students are also responsible for the management and oversight of Ramix Music, a college-sponsored record label. 

Music Performance provides students with wide-ranging opportunities to develop strong technique, build performing skills, and find their unique sound and style.  Students are encouraged to explore solo and group performance experiences spanning from award-winning international touring Choral Ensembles, Ramapo Chorale, Gospel Chorus, Concert Band, and Jazz Ensemble to Brazilian Latin Percussion Ensemble, digital performance, singer-songwriting and student-led bands. Students interested in teaching typically combine the Performance and Music Education concentrations.

Music Production emphasizes a creative approach to a wide range of topics relevant to music technology including sound synthesis, electronic composition and performance, audio mixing and mastering, acoustics, interactive media and live concert sound.  Students have access to state-of-the-art resources in the Ramapo Les Paul Recording Studio and Electronic Music Lab.

Music Studies focuses on the analytical and interpretive disciplines of music, honing skills to research and write about music in historical, cultural, and international contexts. The concentration includes music performance and interdisciplinary studies. Music Studies prepares students for graduate studies in musicology/ethnomusicology and careers in music journalism and art administration.

Students completing this program will receive a B.A. degree. A flexible Minor in Music is available.