Bachelor of Arts in Music: Commercial Music Emphasis (B.A.)
Combine your passion for music with industry expertise to help get your music into the marketplace.
At Colorado Christian University, you can combine your passion for music with your education by earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music with an emphasis in Commercial Music. This program is designed to help musicians gain the essential skills needed to thrive and remain competitive in an ever-changing music marketplace. Commercial Music program courses include songwriting, music production, and entrepreneurship, offering hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in the music industry.
Areas of study include contemporary music theory practice and performance, the knowledge and understanding of how to create a contemporary ensemble, and the fundamentals of the music industry, including music production.
Students will also explore key industry topics confronting modern musicians, addressing marketing, legal, and ethical considerations, financial management, and other critical artistic issues. By combining a passion for music with industry expertise and CCU’s core music curriculum, graduates will be prepared to confidently lead with faith and excellence in the field.
Commercial Music at CCU
Colorado Christian University is one of the few Christian universities offering a degree in Commercial Music. This program provides a strong foundation in music within a Christ-centered atmosphere, preparing you for success in a dynamic and ever-evolving industry by aligning your passions and talents with professional opportunities. As a commercial music student, you will receive a comprehensive educational experience that includes foundational music training along with industry-specific skills in business and technology, supported by personal connections with faculty.
While you will gain top-tier technical skills and real-world experience in the field of music, CCU goes beyond simply mastering the basic art form and industry essentials – music is seen as an expression of worship, a tool to point people to Jesus, and a vital part of Christian life. Our experienced faculty and staff, all active music professionals, are dedicated to helping you grow both spiritually and professionally, equipping you to use your musical talents to glorify Christ.
Auditioning for the School of Music
Prospective students who are planning to major or minor in music or theatre are required to audition for participation in most ensembles and for consideration for School of Music scholarships.
What Can You Do With a Commercial Music Degree?
- Commercial Music Arts – Performing Artist
- Marketing Specialist
- Social Media Engagement
- Artist Representative
- Music Director
Interesting Courses You Might Take
- Music Business
- Performance Proficiency
- Sight Singing and Ear Training
- Contemporary Music Theory
- Digital Audio Workstation
- Audio Engineering
Commercial Music Curriculum
The Commercial Music emphasis offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for various careers in the music industry. The inclusion of music technology underscores its importance in developing modern skills for audio production, composition, and music business. Courses cover a wide range of topics, from performance and theory to music business and production, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
Students will have the opportunity to work with industry-standard software and equipment, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for success in today's digital music landscape. The program also emphasizes the importance of networking and professional development, providing students with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive field.
Graduates of the Commercial Music program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors of the music industry, including performance, production, and business. The program's comprehensive approach ensures that students are prepared for the diverse opportunities available in this ever-evolving industry.
Course Catalog
About the School of Music
The School of Music equips students with the necessary skills to become expressive artists and effective communicators from a Christian perspective through the discipline of music. Our students use music and theatre to impact culture for Christ, to honor Him, and to share His love on campus and around the world. Opportunities are open to students of all majors and include national and international tours for major ensembles and an on-campus recording studio.
Become a leader in both the world and the church as you learn to combine a progressive and distinctly Christian worldview with classical, jazz, contemporary, and world music. Academic programs range from Music Performance, Music Education, and Music Composition to Worship Arts, Theatre, and Dance. You'll get personal attention from exceptional, creative, and caring faculty who are themselves active performers and clinicians who desire to not only teach, but to also mentor students.
Colorado Christian University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). NASM establishes national standards for undergraduate degrees and other credentials for music and music-related disciplines, and provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other music-related endeavors.