Minor In Music
The Mary Pappert School of Music offers a Minor in Music to any Duquesne student, regardless of major. The program consists of 15 credits, 7 of which are prescribed coursework and the remaining 8 designated for music electives.
Program Admission
A demonstration of musical ability is required for entry into the program. Audition dates and requirements are posted online at duq.edu/MusicAdmissions. If you have any questions, or you would like to schedule an audition, email us at musicadmissions@duq.edu.
Program Requirements
All music minors will be required to enroll in the following music coursework:
- Ensembles (2 credits)
Duquesne's ensembles provide the finest university-level performing experiences available. As a member, students perform on campus, as well as at some of the best venues for music in the city.
- Applied Lessons (2 credits)
Applied lessons consist of individual instruction on a specific instrument. Lessons typically take place weekly. Time and location are arranged individually between the student and the instructor.
- Foundational Music (3 credits)
Students partake in a 2-credit course, Fundamentals of Music (MUSC 109) as well as Group Piano for 1 credit. As a music minor, Fundamentals of Music must be completed before taking on any courses in the elective pathways below.
In addition, a total of 8 elective credits in music are required. These can be used to focus the minor in various career pathways including, but not limited to:
- Jazz Studies
Explore the language of jazz through composition, arranging, harmony, and history courses. - Music Technology
Get hands-on access to state-of-the-art recording studios and media labs while engaging in a variety of audio/video production projects. - Performance
Continue participation in ensembles, dive deeper into performance techniques, and expand performance repertoire. - Music Theory
Choose from a variety of music theory, history, and composition/arranging courses to sharpen and hone their musicianship.
Customize Musical Outcomes
Students interested in focusing on a particular pathway will work directly with a faculty advisor to select courses to meet desired outcomes and experiences. If a student has questions at any point, they are welcome to contact the school of music to set up an advising appointment.
Staff Advisor: Jane Cubbison, cubbisonj@duq.edu I x5744
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Paul Miller, millerp3@duq.edu I x1892
Music Admissions: Tom Carsecka, musicadmissions@duq.edu I x5064
Interested in music, but not sure about a minor?
Students may register for certain classes a la carte such as MUSR 101-Audio Industry Techniques without having to complete an audition or commit to a minor in music. Students are also welcome to participate in ensembles in the same fashion (seating auditions required).
For those interested in non-credit music lessons and courses, visit duq.edu/MusicForAdults to learn more about City Music Center of Duquesne University, the community outreach division of the Mary Pappert School of Music.
Want to change majors?
Those interested in switching to a major in music should schedule a time to meet with the music admissions and advisement team to review options. Email musicadmissions@duq.edu or call 412-396-5064 to schedule an appointment.