Discover Music – Undecided

Interested in music, but unsure of the best path forward? Compose your own musical journey and explore multiple areas of interest through the Discover Music program! Work one-on-one with your Student Success Coach to map out your path to graduation while playing in ensembles and making music.

Explore Your Interests

Creative people often have a variety of skills and areas of interest that can make committing to a particular program or major quite challenging. As a student in the Discover Music program, you’ll have access to staff and faculty advisors who will help you connect your education to the outcomes you desire. Discover Music can help you…

  • Explore multiple areas of interest within music such as Composition, Jazz, Production & Recording, Performance, or Therapy before declaring a particular major in Music.
  • Earn a music degree and a secondary major in another area of study such as Communications, Digital Media, International Relations, or Theater Arts.
  • Keep your options open without falling behind. If you decide to pursue another major outside of music, your coursework will still count toward degree completion in another major and/or a minor in music.

REQUEST INFO          APPLY

When you apply, select the “Discover” option as an area of interest overall or as a major option within music. Learn more about other opportunities to Discover at Duquesne.

Program Information

Whether you consider yourself undecided, undeclared or exploring possible majors, we'll help you find a Music career path that is right for you in our Discover Music program.

Degree

Bachelor's

School

Mary Pappert School of Music

Discover Music FAQs

We've addressed some common questions about this program in this section. If you are not finding the answers you are looking for please connect with us today!

musicadmissions@duq.edu
No, a formal audition is not required. However, we still want to see a demonstration of your musical talents and ability. We want to know why music is important to you and what role music plays in your life.
We ask that you submit a "Music Demo". The demo is a word document containing hyperlinked music media and can include examples of original songs or compositions, performances (solo and ensemble), recordings and productions, and much more. Your Music Demo will be reviewed by faculty evaluators before issuing an admission decision.
Sample Music Demo
Faculty evaluators will make course recommendations based on the content and feedback provided on your Music Demo. You will work with your Student Success Coach to map out a curricular pathway that aligns with your desired outcomes. This may include music courses to help develop skills or provide critical experiences.
You can choose to pursue a BA in Music, BA with Music Technology Concentration, or a BS in Music Therapy (accelerated) and still graduate within a 4-year timeline. Students can also elect to pursue a secondary major from within the College of Liberal Arts or change programs entirely and just keep music as a minor area of study.
The Discover Music pathway affords each student a 1-year timeline (fall and spring semester) before declaring a major. Students that wish to pursue a major within the school of music will submit a capstone project to music faculty for admission consideration. You can also declare a major from within the College of Liberal Arts and just keep music as a minor area of study.
Students enrolled in the "Discover Music - Undecided" pathway will receive the Academic Award from the Univeristy, but will not be immediately eligible for additional music scholarships. If you decide to declare a major within the school of music, you will need to submit a formal audition portfolio in order to pass a capstone. Once the capstone is passed, you will unlock the Audition and Enhancement Awards.

Contact

Connect with us and get answers to questions about your Music Demo, degree outcomes, or other flexible options within the program.

Thomas Carsecka

Assistant Dean of Music Admissions and Community Programs

Thomas Carsecka

Jane Cubbison

Student Success Coach

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Our Bridges Curriculum

Along with your music courses, you will also take Duquesne's Bridges Common Learning Experience curriculum. Bridges connects your college experiences and ensures you'll never have to narrow your ambitions. Our curriculum builds connections between all majors and interests, so you can confidently explore what’s right for you.

As a music student, courses can double and even triple count towards degree requirements, which means you have more opportunity to double major or pick up multiple minors! No need to commit to just one passion.

Know Your Options

Join one of our major ensembles or participate in chamber music! Making music together is at the heart of community-building at the Mary Pappert School of Music. Regardless of choosing a major, all Duquesne students are welcome to participate in our bands, choirs, and orchestras. View Options

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Helping You Reach Your Bigger Goals

More about Bridges