With a an applied performance: composition degree, you’ll master music songwriting and composition, preparing for a diverse musical career.
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They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in applied performance with a composition emphasis, you’ll develop the skills for a successful musical career. You’ll refine your music songwriting skills to produce beautiful works of sound, exploring compositions for single instruments, chamber groups, choirs, and orchestral works.
Musical proficiency
Master advanced music theory and composition techniques.
Foundational knowledge
Develop a deep understanding of music history and literature, grounding your compositions in a strong historical context.
Conducting skills
Learn the art of conducting, mastering techniques to lead various ensembles with confidence and precision.
Expand your instrumental pedagogy
Refine your teaching skills across several instrumental types, preparing you to educate the next generation of musicians.
Strong collaboration skills
Expand your collaborative and communication skills with other musicians, honing your interpersonal and production skills.
Creative problem-solving
Exercise creative problem-solving to overcome challenges in musical composition and performance settings.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, study abroad, apply what you’ve learned, and gain. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Lessons and collaboration
Receive personalized, one-on-one guidance as you hone your technical skills and collaborate on performances and research with supportive professors.
Numerous performance opportunities
You’ll have access to unique and prestigious performance opportunities, scholarships, competitions, and immersive experiences. And you’ll regularly perform in competitions and several Bethel events like Festival of Christmas, Classics in the Great Hall, and Jazz in the Great Hall in Bethel’s Benson Great Hall, a premier venue in the Twin Cities.
Participate in music tours
Participate in music ensembles that travel across the United States and abroad. Previous locations have included Singapore, Malaysia, Poland, Sweden, France, and more.
Real-world impact
What can I do with an applied performance degree?
Applied performance with a composition emphasis is one of the most versatile majors. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in almost any field. Graduates of our composition major pursue diverse career paths.
Professional composing
Use your skills to create original works across various genres and for diverse ensembles.
Music education
Shape the next generation of musicians by sharing your expertise as a music instructor, in schools music academics, community programs, and more.
Private studio teaching
Offer personalized instruction and mentorship to individuals passionate about music.
Music direction
Direct musical ensembles, orchestras, or choirs in a range of settings like churches, theaters, and community organizations.
Performance
Showcase your compositions on stage and in prestigious venues as a performer, as a solo artist, or as part of an ensemble.
Graduate school
You’ll be prepared to continue refining you musical abilities in top graduate programs.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside supportive professors who are there for you as helpful resources. You’ll receive their guidance for graduate auditions, job applications, leadership roles, and assistant positions.
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
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