Different Kinds of Music Degrees at Concordia

Music is a form of creative expression that can be tailored to everyone’s strengths and preferences. It can be used to educate, entertain, show emotion or serve others. With degree options like music education, church music and general music, Concordia University, Nebraska's music program is a great option for students looking to serve others and glorify God with their talents. 

Concordia offers a general music education program as well as a vocal music education program. The general music education degree teaches students how to instruct others in both vocal and instrumental music, with a separate degree option for those looking to pursue solely vocal music education. Both degrees certify the recipients to teach K-12 in public schools. An optional Lutheran Teachers Diploma makes graduates eligible to receive calls from Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod schools. 

Church music majors learn to lead a comprehensive music program at their called parish. While they learn some aspects of music education, they are not certified to teach in a school unless they choose to take extra classes to reach that degree. After graduation they can opt to take theology courses to receive certification as Directors of Parish Music. Majors can also participate in the 100-hour church music practicum prior to graduation to gain hands-on experience. 

The general music program at Concordia has many different concentrations and encompasses a wide variety of interests. Majors can choose concentrations in church music, composition, conducting, general studies or performance. These different concentrations can provide students with a wide variety of career opportunities. 

While music educators and church musicians will generally land at a school or parish, there are many other options for graduates of the music program. Some of these include gaining certification for music therapy , working in music production , becoming a collaborative musician or working as a lyricist or songwriter. 

Concordia has many opportunities for music majors to collaborate with other musicians and perform for their peers. There are frequent recitals that students are encouraged to participate in and several ensembles, vocal and instrumental, that are open to majors and non-majors. There are also study abroad opportunities for church music majors in Cambridge, England. 

Through hands-on experiences and many different performance opportunities, Concordia Nebraska’s music program allows for music to develop from a skill into a way to serve others and glorify God. The wide variety of degree and concentration options allows for students to grow in their abilities and learn how to apply them in meaningful ways that impact those around them. Whether in the classroom, the church or the world, music graduates of Concordia leave ready to make lasting impact on their communities. 

Concordia University, Nebraska’s music programs offer rigorous preparation to glorify God in your future vocations through the study and performance of music. Through applied lessons, participation in one of our outstanding ensembles or academic music pursuits, hundreds of students of any major can make great music and lifelong friendships at Concordia. Learn more about the music program here.