Our program offers an education in music theory, history, performance, and pedagogy, preparing students for careers in music education, performance, composition, and related fields. With a focus on growing creativity, expression, and excellence, our curriculum combines theory with practice to cultivate versatile and passionate musicians. Gain hands-on experience through showcases, performances, and audio/video production, preparing you for diverse job opportunities in the music industry.
Music students at St. Ambrose will receive in-depth training and experience to help aspiring musicians and educators grow. Musicians work closely with faculty to craft a personalized curriculum and hands-on experiences to help each student reach their goals.
St. Ambrose marching arts program: Color guard, front ensemble, WGI Winter Guard & Indoor Percussion.
Musicians lead ensembles, gaining podium experience before student teaching, including rehearsal and concert conducting.
Internship options include Quad City Symphony, Mississippi Valley Blues Society, Keynotes Vocal Studio, and local churches.
Our music teacher education program is available for students interested in teaching music in K-12 settings.
From technique-based courses to theory, performance, and history, the St. Ambrose Music Department makes sure that each student has a versatile range of skills before graduating. Both vocal and instrumental skills will be honed, and a senior recital will provide the opportunity to showcase all that you’ve learned. Some examples of course content include:
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS103 | Applied Music | 0-2 credits |
| MUS 302 | Music Theory & Analysis IV | 3 credits |
| MUS 319 | Conducting | 3 credits |
| MUS 324 | Music Technology | 1 credits |
| MUS 325 | Music History and Literature | 3 credits |
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
| Expense | By Semester | By Year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
All faculty have firsthand experience in the field, whether it’s all music education faculty having experience working in public schools, or the fact that all faculty are involved in music making in the Quad Cities region. This love of music translates into their courses, creating a safe and exciting environment for students to explore their passions. They will push you to continue to improve as a musician and ask you to look at music from a variety of perspectives.
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
The Music Department awards more than $170,000 in annual scholarships to talented Music students who audition, and the grant is renewable every year through graduation. We encourage potential music majors and minors to audition, but we offer a significant number of Music scholarships to talented students majoring in other academic disciplines. Learn more about music scholarships.
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education.
-Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa
We offer a multitude of performing groups: marching band, symphonic band, university chorale, chamber singers, jazz combo, Bella Voce, Bee Sharp, and STAMVOJA (vocal jazz ensemble). With the number and variety of our music ensembles, you'll be sure to find your place.
Perform as a soloist, in a small ensemble, in the Quad Cities community, or even internationally. Our students regularly perform with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra for live movie showings with orchestra and chorus; in 2017, the chamber singers toured Italy and Austria, and in 2019, the symphonic band traveled to Ireland. In 2023, chamber singers and symphonic band traveled to Greece! Our SAU marching band performs at home football games, playoffs, and community events.
The Quad Cities is home to a strong performing arts community, boasting many performance venues and festivals including River Music Experience, Quad City Symphony Orchestra, Bix Jazz Music Festival, Mississippi Blues Festival, Nova Singers, the Adler Theatre, and many more.
“St. Ambrose provided me with the knowledge and real-world experiences I needed as I began my career. The frequent real-world experiences provided to me helped me develop my teaching strategies, develop my confidence as an educator, and prepared me for my career.”
-Skylar DeCamp ‘20, BA in Music Education - Vocal Endorsement
Here are the admissions requirements for our Music program.
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Bachelor of Arts in Music could achieve.
Potential job titles
Potential employment settings
Traits of a musician
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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Connect with current students and get your questions answered during this live, virtual event.
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Catch the talent of St. Ambrose University's senior music students at their upcoming recitals. Join us for unforgettable performances this fall.
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Rachael Young '23 began her journey at St. Ambrose University in January 2022, armed with an associate's degree and a wealth of life experiences.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
