Distinguished Majors Program

The Distinguished Major Program allows outstanding music majors to work on large-scale projects during their last two semesters at the University. The project may consist of a thesis, a composition, or the performance of a full recital; a project that combines these components is also possible.

Majors normally apply to the program during their sixth semester. After a preliminary discussion with the DUP, a student arranges supervision by a main advisor and two other committee members, and submits a proposal to the DUP and Department Chair. Each spring, the DUP announces detailed application procedures and a deadline.

Work on the Distinguished Major project normally takes place through three credits of independent work in the last two semesters at the University. These credits do not count toward music major requirements. A student working on a thesis or composition normally takes MUSI 493-494, at three credits each. A student preparing a recital normally takes honors-level private performance lessons, MUPF 493-494, at two credits each, as well as an academic independent study pertinent to the recital program, MUSI 493-494, at one or more credits each.

Projects are due by the last day of classes in the second semester of work; a student's committee may set an earlier date of completion. The committee evaluates the completed project and submits a report to the full-time faculty. Students completing projects may receive the B.A. with Distinction, High Distinction, or Highest Distinction in Music, provided the cumulative GPA at graduation is 3.4 or above (a CLAS rule).

Any level of distinction is an unusual honor, showing strong Department admiration for a student's work. The Department awards Highest Distinction only rarely. A completed project that is less than excellent will receive no distinction.