Getting Started / Choosing a Track

• I want to be a composer—does that mean I choose the Composition track?

  Yes. The Composition track is designed for students who want formal training in writing original music, orchestration, and portfolio development. If you’re unsure, meet with the Major and Faculty advisor to review sample coursework and career goals.

• Can I switch concentrations after I’ve started the major?

  Yes—changes are possible, but some tracks require auditions, portfolio review, or faculty approval.

• Do I need an audition to be a Music or Music & Culture major?

  No.

• How do I declare the Music minor?

  The music diagnostic exam is recommended for those that have experience, but make an appointment with a music advisor for more information on eligibility, university policy, or to declare.

Double Concentrations / Double Majors

• I want to double concentrate—how do I begin?

   Meet with the Music advisor to map both concentrations and confirm you will not exceed the 216-unit campus limit. 

• Can I double major in Music and another CHASS field?

  Yes.

• Will double concentrations require extra years?

  A double concentration can add extra time depending on class availability across both curriculums.

• Can ensemble units count for both concentrations?

  Each track is different, and chair approval is required.

Courses & Enrollment

• Which classes should I take in my first year?

  The music diagnostic exam is recommended for those that have music experience. You will take MUS 001 and MUS 010 (first year).

  MUCU Major: MUS 006, 008, 012, 014

• What if a required MUS class is full?

  Enrollment decisions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and depend on your degree progress. Approval from the course instructor and the Department Chair is required for any exceptions. Advisors are not able to override full classes.

• How many ensemble units do I need?

  Ensemble participation supports your artistic development. Requirements vary by track—see your assigned advisor to confirm your progress and unit needs.

• Can I repeat the same ensemble?

  Yes.

• Do community college music courses count?

  Please contact TCAS with the Undergraduate Admissions office.

• Can I catch up over the summer?

  Yes, please check the Summer Schedule of Classes to see what will be available at UC Riverside over the summer. You can also meet with your assigned advisor to discuss Breadth requirements you can transfer in from community college coursework.

• What is the difference between MUS 01–99 vs. 100–199 courses?

  MUS 01-99 are lower division courses and MUS 100-199 are upper division courses.

Performance Requirements

• What is a jury?

  Juries are mandatory for Music juniors and seniors enrolled in the Performance Track. Students must play for two of them, on two different quarters, within each academic year. Students do not play for juries the quarter in which they perform a senior recital. Juries are optional for non-Music Majors, and Music Majors who are not in the Performance Track but who are nevertheless taking Voice & Instrument lessons at the Department. Please note that an instructor may require that a student participate in juries even if they are not in the Performance Track.

• Do I need a senior recital?

  A senior recital is required for students in the Performance Track. Other students may petition the department for the opportunity to hold a senior recital.

• How do I sign up for private lessons?

  EAF (Week 1-2): https://chassem.ucr.edu/continuing-student-enrollment

  After Week 2: https://studentforms.ucr.edu/login

• Can non-majors join ensembles?

  Yes, any UCR student can join an ensemble!

Careers & Opportunities

• What can I do with a Music & Culture degree?

  Careers with a Music & Culture degree include music education, performance, business, marketing, journalism, archivism, and curation. Please connect with the Career Center for additional career support.

• How do I build a portfolio for grad school?

  Please be sure to research the graduate programs you are interested in to determine admission requirements. The Career Center can offer additional support with your portfolio.

• Where can I find internships in music?

  UCR Handshake is an excellent resource for browsing internship opportunities. The Career Center can offer additional support when looking for an internship.

• Can I become a music teacher through UCR?

  Yes—students often pair the major with the Teacher Education Program (TEP).

• Are there scholarships for Music students?

  Music majors interested in auditioning for the Marius de Brabant Performance Scholarship, which covers the cost of private lessons, should contact coordinator Ruth Charloff (ruth.charloff@ucr.edu) or the department chair. Additionally, the Department of Music annually awards scholarships to outstanding students through faculty selection.

Policies & Graduation

• What is the 216-unit limit and why does it matter?

  Students must complete their undergraduate degrees within 216 units. To exceed 216 units, students must submit a blue petition to request the Associate Dean’s approval. Please reach out to your advisor for more information.

• Can study abroad count toward the major?

  Study abroad coursework is typically counted towards your elective units. To have a course evaluated for a direct UCR equivalent, please submit the course syllabus in an articulation request to TCAS.

• What if I’m on academic probation?

  Students on academic notice have a 15 unit maximum until they return to good academic standing (2.0 and above). Please see your assigned advisor for additional support on how to navigate academic notice.

• How do I petition a course substitution?

  Course substitution is handled on a case-by-case basis. Chair approval is required.

• Who confirms my graduation progress?

  Your assigned academic advisor.