Students who wish to pursue the Performance Certificate must demonstrate eligibility for three-credit lessons at their audition.  Students who wish to study composition must also submit original compositions for evaluation by the composition faculty.

At the conclusion of the fourth semester of study, students in the Bachelor of Arts Performance Certificate degree will prepare a jury for the appropriate applied faculty, who, in consultation with the academic adviser, will determine whether the student is permitted to continue towards the Performance Certificate.  In questionable cases, the adviser is permitted to recommend that the decision be delayed for a maximum of one additional semester, in order to evaluate further the student's progress; this recommendation is subject to the approval of the Department Chair.  Students who do not pass the jury may continue in the Bachelor of Arts in Music program (with the understanding that choosing another major may lengthen the amount of time to complete the degree).

Students in the Bachelor of Arts Performance Certificate program will perform a final recital, typically in the final semester of study.

All Bachelor of Arts students must complete a minimum of four semesters of private instruction in a performance area at either one or three semester hours of credit per semester, depending on the student’s interest and qualifications.  All students must also complete a minimum of four semesters of any music performing organization, such as University Symphony Orchestra, University Chorus, or Wind Ensemble. Students will select the appropriate ensemble in consultation with the music adviser. All ensembles require the student to pass an audition before being permitted to register.  Students who wish to pursue the Bachelor of Arts Performance Certificate must take eight semesters of applied lessons at three semester hours, and eight semesters of performing organization.

All students are required to study piano, as keyboard skills are crucial for gaining a full understanding of musical concepts. Beginners will normally take Class Piano I and II, though more advanced students may audition for private instruction; in this case, the piano lessons may count toward both private instruction and piano requirements, and the two prerequisite credit hours of Class Piano will be waived.

In addition to four additional semesters of applied study, four additional semesters of major ensemble participation, and a recital, the BA in Music with Performance Certificate has 18 credits of music electives so that students can study in courses related to their instrument.  If a student is planning to pursue this degree they should consult with their advisor on which courses would be most appropriate.