Music is the universal language. It connects all people at a primal level, regardless of their culture, background, or primary spoken language. And music is all around us, from concert halls to computer screens, from stereos to soundtracks. The ability to get inside the music helps you speak this common language and produce important messages for others to hear.

Northeastern’s music department approaches the study of music from a global, business, multicultural, and multifaceted perspective. We offer three concentrations in the context of a broad liberal arts program. All of them give you a thorough background in the fundamentals of music, including music theory and history, but they focus on different aspects of music.

The music history and analysis concentration includes courses in Western classical music, American music, World music, music theory and ear-training. This concentration leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree.

The concentration in music technology teaches you to compose music using the newest music hardware and software, and exposes you to techniques such as MIDI sequencing, digital and analog recording, sound design, audio for video, and the latest methods for delivering music over the Internet. You can also study composition for both acoustic and electric instruments. This concentration leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. 

The music industry concentration is designed for students with an interest for the business side of the music industry. This concentration exposes students to many aspects of the industry such as entrepreneurship, marketing and promotion, artist management, the music products industry, performing arts administration, copyright law, the recording process, and studio techniques. Classes originate both in the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Business Administration. This concentration leads to a Bachelor of Science degree.

Northeastern has an array of resources available to music majors. There are several practice rooms and music-oriented computer labs on campus along with a recording studio. An extensive concert series offers a variety of performances by students, faculty, and guest artists. You also have the opportunity to participate in our active choral groups, bands, and chamber ensembles. Through an exchange program, you may attend classes at the New England Conservatory of Music.