Undergraduate Research

Independent Study provides vital experience in the real world of scholarship, conducting, composition, and performance. Qualified upper-level undergraduates are also eligible to take graduate courses at the 500-level in the Department of Music.

Independent Study

Independent and Advanced Study covers a variety of activities. Admission to these courses will be subject to the approval of the DUS and the instructor.

  • Research Independent Study (MUSIC 393) is for directed reading, research, and musical analysis within a prescribed area of music literature. A written proposal must be submitted and approved by the instructor and the DUS; the student should enroll during the regular registration period (not during Drop/Add). This project is to culminate in a substantial paper of larger scope.
  • Advanced Study in Musical Performance (MUSIC 401) is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, by permission. For advanced students who have already been enrolled in applied music, these courses require a half-recital at the end of one semester or a full recital after two semesters (with a jury at the end of the first semester). Approval by the instructor is required for registration.
  • Advanced Study in Conducting (MUSIC 418) is open to juniors and seniors who have taken MUSIC 318 or 319, with the permission of the instructor.
  • Advanced Study in Composition (MUSIC 461) consists of weekly individual lessons with members of the composition faculty. It is open to students who have taken MUSIC 281S and/or 381S, with the permission of the instructor.