With a degree in applied performance: vocal, you’ll become equipped with the technical vocal knowledge and skills to prepare for a thriving career as a professional musician or educator.
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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: vocal, you’ll develop the skills for a successful musical career. You’ll work with other amazing musicians as you refine your musical skills to prepare for your career.
Advanced vocal performance skills
You’ll develop mastery across diverse vocal styles, honing techniques for classical, contemporary, and experimental genres.
Vocal pedagogy
Acquire skills in vocal instruction, conducting, and teaching methods, preparing you to mentor and guide aspiring vocalists.
Foundational knowledge
Develop a deep understanding of music history and literature, grounding your compositions in a strong historical context.
Strong collaboration
You’ll collaborate with others in vocal performances including opera scenes and musical theater productions.
Creative problem-solving
Exercise creative problem-solving to overcome challenges in musical composition and performance settings.
Conducting skills
Learn the art of conducting, mastering techniques to lead various ensembles with confidence and precision.
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.
Performance opportunities
You’ll perform regularly in our Benson Great Hall, a premier venue in the Twin Cities metro. And our annual Concerto-Aria performance competition recital gives you the spotlight to perform your gift for others and win monetary prizes.
Collaboration and mentorship
In private lessons, you’ll benefit from one-on-one mentorship and guidance from accomplished faculty members who are invested in your musical development.
Participation 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?
With a degree in applied performance: vocal from Bethel, you’ll be equipped for a variety of rewarding career paths, including:
Professional vocalist
Pursue roles as a solo artist, ensemble member, or accompanist across diverse musical environments.
Music education
Guide aspiring musicians through private voice instruction, leadership in school music programs, or teaching roles at colleges/universities.
Studio instruction
Establish a thriving voice studio, offering personalized lessons and coaching services.
Collaborative musician
Collaborate with vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and actors in live performances and studio recordings.
Music direction
Lead musical ensembles in various settings such as churches, theaters, and community organizations.
Composition
Craft original compositions, arrangements, and musical scores for a variety of projects and purposes.
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 faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success. Professors are accessible between classes, and you’ll often find fellow students gathered or studying nearby.
Merrin Guice Gill
Associate Professor of Music, Department Chair and Director of Choral Activities
Kevin Shull
Adjunct Instructor of Music, Director of the Handbell Ensemble and Manager of Music Organizations
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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