College music programs in Alabama are commonly housed within the fine arts program within a college or university. It makes sense that the bigger music schools in Alabama offer more opportunities to students, but you can also find select programs within smaller schools if you know where to look.

You will find a variety of music programs within the many Alabama music schools. Try to narrow your focus a bit before starting the search within all the university music programs in Alabama.

1. Investigate a college music program in Alabama with an eye toward a variety of programs of study to leave yourself with options.

2. Pursue a performing career with the background you get from a performance-focused school of music.

3. Focus on commercial music, recording and entertainment by delving deep into the details of a music business degree.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the Alabama music program that strikes the right chord with you

Large state entities generally offer diversified graduate and undergraduate programs. The schools may offer degrees in such areas as performance, education, composition, theory and therapy. Students can focus on voice, as well as specific instruments, or a particular type of music.

I recommend: Alabama State University's (ASU) music program is within the College of Visual and Performing Arts. ASU's music department offers a choice between professional training in music education and broad-based liberal arts training with a strong focus in performance. The University of Alabama School of Music requires that most prospective students audition before the faculty prior to admission.

Investigate smaller Alabama college and university music programs with a unique focus

Every music college has a focus. One music college or university may do more with music business, recording technology or music therapy. Larger universities allow students many performance opportunities while offering choices within a balanced curriculum. Both the University of Mobile and Samford University challenge students to weigh different points of view while supporting and nurturing students in a Christian setting.

I recommend: Samford University recently introduced a degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy, to its already full menu of music programs. The University of Mobile's Center for Performing Arts Department of Music offers its students numerous performance opportunities as they hone their musical craft.

Consider the overall culture and environment of each music school in Alabama

The music field is large, and there are many Alabama college music programs out there. Diversity of experience will go a long way to satisfying any employer's expectations. Multicultural opportunities will strengthen your musical experience and your resume. Seek out the program that fits your personal and professional needs.

I recommend: The University of South Alabama and its Department of Music is dedicated to offering a wide spectrum of experiences to its students and the surrounding Gulf Coast community. Education Reference offers a listing of Alabama music colleges with locations and brief descriptions of music programs offered.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Keep an open mind as you research the various Alabama university music programs. You might find a program you never imagined existed and that fits better than what you initially had in mind.