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Music

Closeup of men’s choir in tuxedos singing
  • Program Type
    Major, Minor
  • Degrees Offered
    B.S.
  • School
    School of Arts & Sciences
Undergraduate Programs

Develop your artistry through a challenging curriculum taught in a collaborative learning environment. Follow your interests through elective courses, independent studies, internships, and capstone projects to chart the course for your professional career.

What You’ll Learn

You'll develop your skills as a musician in the classroom, rehearsal room, and studio – building a solid foundation for your chosen career path.

Take Advantage of Performance Opportunities

Participate in large ensembles, chamber groups, community ensembles, musical theater, and special events, such as the renowned Christmas at Mary concert. In addition to performances on our Bismarck, ND campus, ensembles tour regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Be Mentored by Distinguished, Engaged Faculty

You’ll receive individualized attention and direction from faculty who combine their own performance excellence with expertise as educators.

Work with World-renowned Guest Artists

Mary’s special events, such as the annual Jazz Festival, attract musicians from around the world to work and perform with students.

Prepare for Graduate Study at Mary

Continue your musical education with Mary’s .

Become an Educator

For those interested in teaching at the high school or middle school level, you can combine your major with the music education degree in preparation for getting your teaching license. 

Program Information

Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.

Professor and Chair of Music Dr. Tom Porter and students share what it’s like to study music at Mary. 

Careers & Outcomes

Employment Trends

The music program prepares students for a variety of careers in music by offering four distinct degree options that provide our students with practical and professional training. Some of our students also choose to double major in areas such as business, English, and communications, expanding their career options.

Career Paths

  • Performer
  • Composer
  • Private Teacher
  • Arts Advocate
  • Music Journalist
  • Educator

The University of Mary music department is a close-knit family and the professors are committed to giving a well-rounded education in music. The performing opportunities they provided helped me improve as a musician and their mentorship was essential in my decision to continue my music education. I will be forever thankful for all the faculty’s help. They were always willing to talk about music or life in general. As I go on in my music career, I hope to be a mentor to others the same way they were for me.

Theresa Bickler, ’14

Featured Faculty

Lucas Bernier, DMA

Associate Professor of Music, Director of Percussion Studies

At the University of Mary, I teach all areas of percussion including applied lessons, percussion methods, percussion ensemble, and steel band. Additionally, I'm fortunate to teach a number of other courses including Orchestration and Arranging, Music Technology, The Music Professional, and Improvisation.

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Thomas Mortenson, MM

Visiting Instructor of Music, Director of the "Blue Crew" Pep Band

At the University of Mary, I teach applied low brass and direct the “Blue Crew” Pep Band. It is a pleasure to serve the students of the University of Mary through hands-on experience in the classroom and meaningful performances on the stage.

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Take Your Next Step in Music