Bachelor of Music in Music History

Advance your understanding of and appreciation for the development of music with the Bachelor of Music (BM) in Music History in Temple's Boyer College of Music and Dance. You’ll build a foundation for graduate studies or careers in archival history, education, journalism and performance. Music History majors study musical style, technique and theory throughout history and examine the evolving impact of music on society.

In this major, housed within the Department of Music Studies, students choose the instrumental, piano or voice concentration. You’ll gain a broad cultural perspective of music with a particular focus on form, practice and style. Coursework in this 124-credit undergraduate degree program also explores music research, music theory and stylistic analysis. You can take private lessons and participate in choral or instrumental ensembles.

Students in the Music History BM program are taught by professional faculty, many of whom bring years of experience in classical performance, critical theory and opera, among other areas. The small size of the department fosters a collaborative, mentoring environment among students and faculty.

Classes & Curriculum

As a Music History major, you will study and research the evolution of music from the Renaissance through contemporary forms. Along the way, you’ll also enhance your mastery of your chosen instrument. Some of your classes will include

  • Basic Conducting;
  • Counterpoint;
  • Music in History; and
  • Theory I through IV.

Learn more about required courses for the Bachelor of Music in Music History.

Related Graduate Degrees

A student reads a book of sheet music.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Music offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $20,616.00 per year
Out-of-state: $36,216.00 per year

Concentrations

You can focus on Music History or you can take one of the following concentrations.

  • Bassoon
  • Cello
  • Clarinet
  • Classical Guitar
  • Double Bass
  • Euphonium
  • Flute
  • French Horn
  • Harp
  • Harpsichord
  • Oboe
  • Percussion
  • Piano
  • Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Trumpet
  • Tuba
  • Viola
  • Violin
  • Voice
BC-MHIS-BMUS

Additional Program Information