At Case Western Reserve University, you don’t have to choose between the lab and the practice room. Many undergraduate students pursue a double major (two majors under one degree), dual degree (two distinct diplomas), or secondary major, combining music with another academic passion while taking advantage of CWRU’s strengths in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary study.
CWRU fosters a collaborative environment where ideas intersect—from music cognition and sound technology to biomedical engineering and arts-based research. Initiatives across the university, including those supported by the Baker-Nord Institute for the Humanities, create opportunities for students to connect the arts, humanities, and sciences in meaningful ways. Whether in rehearsal, the classroom, or the research lab, students work closely with faculty mentors who encourage exploration across disciplines.
Pathways to Combine Music with Other Fields
Double Major
Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Music may add a second major in anothdr field within the College of Arts and Sciences. This option allows students to complete two majors under one degree. While no additional credits are required beyond the BA degree itself, some students may need extra coursework to complete both sets of requirements.
Dual Degree
Students may also pursue a BA in Music alongside a second degree program, such as a BS in Engineering or BS in Business Management. This option requires completing all degree requirements for both programs, along with additional credits beyond either degree alone. With careful planning, many students can complete a dual degree within four years.
Secondary Major
Students pursuing a primary BS degree in another field may choose music as a secondary major. This pathway allows students to complete the core music curriculum while focusing primarily on another discipline. The primary degree and secondary music major will both be noted on the diploma and transcript.
Recent Combined Degrees
Music students at CWRU combine their studies with a wide range of programs, including:
| School / Division | Programs / Fields |
|---|---|
| College of Arts and Sciences | Anthropology, English, Experimental Humanities, History, International Studies, Mathematics, Modern Languages and Literatures, Psychology, Physics, Political Science, Religious Studies, Sociology, Theatre |
| Case School of Engineering | Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
| Weatherhead School of Management | Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Finance, Marketing, Organizational Development |
| Health-Related Programs | Pre-Health, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Neuroscience, Nutrition, Cognitive Science |