Courses

One of the best ways to discover a degree program is to check out the course listings. By simply clicking on the course titles below, you can get a preview of the classes you will attend as a student at Indiana Wesleyan University.

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Music Major Core*

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MUS-101 Applied Study - Level I (majors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music at the freshman level; requires a private lesson fee. Meets one hour each week.
MUS-201 Applied Study- Level II (majors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music at sophomore level of study requires private lesson fee. Meets one hour each week.
MUS-301 Applied Study-Level III (majors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music at junior level of study, requires private lesson fee. Meets one hour each week.
MUS-442 Senior Recital - Music Majors2 Hours
- Students enroll in this course for the final semester of applied study in preparation for the required recital. Two hour lesson per week for one semester.
MUS-160 Introduction to Music Theory2 Hours
- A study of the basic fundamentals of music: major and minor scales, key signatures, triads, and introduction to functional harmony. Open to non-music majors as well as majors. Offered every semester. Prerequisite: The ability to read notes.
MUS-162 Music Theory I3 Hours
- Review of scales, intervals and triads. Elementary harmony is studied by writing and analysis of diatonic triads in four-part harmony, figured bass, cadences, non-harmonic tones, voice-leading, dominant seventh chords, and harmonic progression. Prerequisite: MUS-160 or permission of instructor.
MUS-164 Ear Training I2 Hours
- Includes the singing of all intervals and scales, melodic and interval dictation. Identification of major and minor triads. Rhythmic exercises. Sight-singing in a limited vocal range. To be taken concurrently with Music Theory I.
MUS-261 Music Theory II3 Hours
- The study of harmony is continued through four-part writing and analysis of music literature. Chordal vocabulary is increased with dominant and non-dominant seventh chords as well as secondary and leading-tone chords. Procedures of modulations, realization of figured bass, and transposing for various instruments. Prerequisite: MUS-162, to be taken concurrently with MUS-263.
MUS-263 Ear Training II2 Hours
- Interval, melodic, two and four-part, and rhythmic dictation. Recognition of bass and soprano factors as well as triad function in four-part dictation . Rhythmic exercises including subdivision level. Sight-singing with modal inflections and in tenor and alto clef. To be taken concurrently with Music Theory II, MUS-261.
MUS-264 Music Theory III3 Hours
- Four-part writing and analysis involving tertian sonorities (9th, 11th, and 13th chords) and chromatic harmony (borrowed, Neapolitan, augmented sixth, altered dominant, and chromatic mediant chords). Introduction to analysis techniques for Twentieth Century music. Prerequisite: MUS-261, to be taken concurrently with MUS-266.
MUS-265 Form and Analysis2 Hours
- Analytical skills are developed further by studying typical musical forms of the Eighteenth and Nineteenth centuries, such as binary, ternary, variation, fugue, sonata-allegro, and rondo. Prerequisite: MUS-264.
MUS-266 Ear Training III1 Hours
- Dictation of modulating exercises, intervals, modes, and rhythm. Recognition of more functions of four-part harmony. Identification of cadences and major, minor, augmented, and diminished triads. Rhythmic exercises of difficult nature. Sight-singing with modulating passages and of an extensive range. To be taken concurrently with Music Theory III, MUS-264.
MUS-274 Computer Applications for Music Educator2 Hours
- The purpose of this course is to develop the students' skills in the integration and incorporation of a variety of computer-assisted teaching and learning tools into their music curricula. These skills include MIDI Notation Software as well as Sequencing Software. They will examine and evaluate multimedia and compter-assisted-instructor lessons. The Internet will be examined as a tool for music instruction including the creation of a music education web site. Students will evaluate music hardware and software to judge its appropriateness for particular educational applications, different learning styles, and different grade levels. Students will also use software that can enhance communication to parents as well as organize their future classrooms. Prerequisites: MUS-261, MUS-263, MUS-165 or equivalency, and EDU-250.
MUS-285 Beginning Conducting2 Hours
- An introductory survey in basic conducting techniques applicable to both choral and instrumental music. The focus of this course will be on the mastery of standard beat patterns as well as communication of cues, tempo, dynamics, mood, and other musical nuances. Techniques will be applied and evaluated through in-class conducting. Other related topics will include score study, rehearsal techniques, baton grip, and selection of choral and instrumental literature.
MUS-286 Advanced Conducting2 Hours
- A course devoted to the study and application of advanced techniques in choral and instrumental conducting. The course will focus on that which is technically challenging for the conductor or that which requires an alternative conducting gesture. Literature chosen for in-class application and evaluation will include chant (non-metric), recitative, and other excerpts from works that utilize combined vocal and instrumental forces, and multimetric and polymetric music. Related topics will include core preparation and study, nontraditional notation, performance practice in various stylistic periods, rehearsal planning for large vocal and orchestral works, recruiting and administrative duties involved in a choral or instrumental music program. Prerequisite: MUS-285.
MUS-300 Arranging1 Hours
- An introduction to orchestration, transcription, and arranging. Emphasis on the acquisition and development of the practical skills necessary to adapt and arrange music for a variety of uses and mediums. Prerequisites: MUS-162, MUS-261, and MUS-264.
MUS-371 Music History and Literature I3 Hours
- A survey of the history of music through the work of the great composers. The course covers the evolution of style and form to about 1750.
MUS-372 Music History and Literature II3 Hours
- A survey of the history of music through the work of the great composers, past and present. The course covers the evolution of style and form from 1750 into the Twentieth Century.
MUS-383 Elementary Music Methods for Music Education Majors2 Hours
- This course is designed to present an introduction to the general music program in the elementary schools. Its purpose is to sharpen musical skills and sensitivity, create and teach lessons based on specific concepts at appropriate grade levels, and develop insights into current music education approaches and methodology (Orff, Kodaly, Dalcroze, etc.). Performance skills in soprano recorder, autoharp, and guitar will also be included.
MUS-383P Elementary Music Practicum1 Hours
- This course provides a practicum experience for K-12 music education majors in elementary-level classrooms in public or private schools. Students will observe/assist an experienced elementary music teacher who will serve as the cooperating teacher for the practicum. Students will teach a minimum of three lessons in the elementary classroom, and will be observed and evaluated by both IWU Music Education faculty and Education Division faculty. Graded as a Credit/No Credit class. Co-requisite: MUS-383. Permission of the Music Education faculty and Division of Education to take this course in conjunction with EDU-382C.
MUS-490 Senior Seminar2 Hours
- Advanced studies and research in a selected topic that is chosen by the student and approved by the music education faculty member. For upper-class majors. By permission of the instructor. Requires independent study fee.
MUS-200 Recital Attendance0 Hours
- For music majors and minors only. Requires students to attend a specified number of musical events. Music majors must complete the course for 7 semesters and minors for 4 semesters to qualify for graduation. Offered every semester. Graded on a CR/NC basis.

43-52 credit hours

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MUS-125 Diction for Singers 12 Hours
- A comprehensive study of the rules for proper diction in the singing of English, Italian, and Latin vocal literature with practical exercises in a comparative approach for American Singers. Languages will be studied using the specific symbols of the International Phonetic Alphabet.
MUS-245 Piano Pedagogy I2 Hours
- The focus of the class will be on the study of current elementary methods and literature for teaching piano. The course will provide a general foundation for the knowledge and experience needed for teaching beginning piano.
MUS-246 Piano Pedagogy II2 Hours
- The focus of the class will be on the study of techniques and literature for the teaching of intermediate/early advanced piano students. The study will also include setting up a private studio. It will provide a general foundation for the knowledge and experience needed for piano teaching at the intermediate level. Both private studio and group piano settings will be experienced and observed through practical teaching projects.
MUS-365 Vocal Pedagogy2 Hours
- A comprehensive course covering the instruction skills necessary for vocal studio practice. Topics include vocal anatomy, diagnostic skills and philosophies and methods of teaching correct vocal production. This class includes a brief overview of private studio business practices. Prerequisites: MUS-120. Offered Fall.
MUS-366 Song Literature2 Hours
- Designed for the upper class voice major to introduce significant song composers and to perform representative selections from their works. Students will become acquainted with composer styles, art songs, opera and oratorio excerpts, and song cycles through listening and performance. Prerequisite: MUS-120 and at least three semesters of applied vocal studies. Offered Spring.
MUS-363 Instrumental Methods2 Hours
- A comprehensive investigation of the instrumental music program. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the band and orchestra program including literature, teaching techniques, marching band, orchestra, concert band, jazz band, chamber music, and school, community, and parent support.

2 credit hours

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MUS-280 Choral Techniques2 Hours
- This course will be divided into three modules. Module one: basic understanding of vocal production and pedagogy. Special emphasis on the development of the voice from a young age through adulthood. Module two: choral techniques pertaining to development of good choral tone and musicianship. Emphasis on rehearsal techniques and choral sound. Module three: literature for various levels and styles; efficient organization and operation of a choral ensemble.
MUS-282 String Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the technique of playing string instruments. Violin, viola, cello, and string bass are equally emphasized.
MUS-283 Percussion Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing all percussion instruments. Emphasis is placed on tympani, snare drum, and mallet instruments.
MUS-281 Woodwind Techniques2 Hours
- This course is for the music major, who may or may not have prior knowledge or experience on a woodwind instrument. The opportunity to gain knowledge and experience on a wind instrument is considered essential in the teacher education process. For the applied or church music major, this course will provide foundational knowledge and performance skills for purposes of basic performing, teaching, or arranging. This course is designed to commence at the beginning performance/skill level, and will progress to a basic intermediate level.
MUS-284 Brass Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing brass instruments. The trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, and tuba are equally emphasized.

8 credit hours

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MUS-114 Class Voice1 Hours
- A study of basic vocal technique, including breathing, resonant tone production, note reading, and fundamental vocabulary for singers; aims at developing healthy vocal habits. This course is open to voice electives and non-majors.
MUS-193 University Singers0-1 Hours
- University Chorale, University Singers, and Chamber Singers are offered as large vocal ensembles. These organizations assist in various school and community programs and represent the university in concert. Admittance is by audition and approval of the director. Meets two times a week. Participants enrolled in the first semester are expected to enroll the second semester.
MUS-281 Woodwind Techniques2 Hours
- This course is for the music major, who may or may not have prior knowledge or experience on a woodwind instrument. The opportunity to gain knowledge and experience on a wind instrument is considered essential in the teacher education process. For the applied or church music major, this course will provide foundational knowledge and performance skills for purposes of basic performing, teaching, or arranging. This course is designed to commence at the beginning performance/skill level, and will progress to a basic intermediate level.
MUS-282 String Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the technique of playing string instruments. Violin, viola, cello, and string bass are equally emphasized.
MUS-283 Percussion Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing all percussion instruments. Emphasis is placed on tympani, snare drum, and mallet instruments.
MUS-284 Brass Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing brass instruments. The trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, and tuba are equally emphasized.
MUS-363 Instrumental Methods2 Hours
- A comprehensive investigation of the instrumental music program. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the band and orchestra program including literature, teaching techniques, marching band, orchestra, concert band, jazz band, chamber music, and school, community, and parent support.

9-11 credit hours

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MUS-174 Women's Chorus0-1 Hours
- Indiana Wesleyan University Women's Chorus is an auditioned SSAA choir, comprised of music majors and also includes students from other disciplines. This chorus assists in various campus and community programs and represents the university in concert. Admission is by audition and approval of the director. Participants who are enrolled in the first semester are expected to enroll again for the second semester. Rehearsals take place twice a week. This ensemble may meet the requirement for large ensemble credit only for those who are Music Education majors with an emphasis in applied strings.
MUS-177 Clarinet Quartet0-1 Hours
- The clarinet quartet is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-181 Guitar Ensemble0-1 Hours
- The IWU Guitar Ensemble is a musical ensemble designed to familiarize the student with music of different styles and eras and the proper execution of that music. Included in the course will be emphasis on ensemble playing skills--balance, blend, intonation, tone, etc. Concerts will be performed by the group.
MUS-184 World Music Ensemble0-1 Hours
- Music of various cultures will be studied and performed, concentrating on (but not limited to) music of African, Latin American, Caribbean, and Japanese styles. Instrumentation for this ensemble includes authentic drums and non-pitched instruments as well as xylophones and metallophones. Prerequisite: permission of the Music Division.
MUS-185 Flute Ensemble0-1 Hours
- The flute ensemble is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-186 String Quartet0-1 Hours
- The string quartet is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-187 Trombone Ensemble0-1 Hours
- The Trombone Ensemble is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-188 Woodwind Ensemble0-1 Hours
- The woodwind ensemble is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-189 Honors Brass Quintet0-1 Hours
- The honors brass quintet is an auditioned ensemble that provides chamber music as well as a variety of musical styles from classical, hymn arrangements, and lighter selections.
MUS-195 Percussion Ensemble0-1 Hours
- Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and other instrumental ensembles are offered. These organizations assist in various school and community programs and represent the university in concert. Admittance is by audition and approval of the director. Meets two times a week.
MUS-197 Jazz Ensemble0-1 Hours
- Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and other instrumental ensembles are offered. These organizations assist in various school and community programs and represent the university in concert. Admittance is by audition and approval of the director. Meets two times a week.

0-1 credit hours

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MUS-111 Applied Study - (music Minors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music for the music minor at the first semester of study, requires private lesson fee. Meets one-half hour each week.
MUS-112 Applied Study - (music Minors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music for the music minor at the second semester of study, requires private lesson fee. Meets one-half hour each week.
MUS-211 Applied Study - (music Minors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music for the music minor at the third semester of study, requires private lesson fee. Meets one-half hour each week. Prerequisites: MUS-111 and MUS-112.
MUS-212 Applied Study - (music Minors)1 Hours
- Study of applied music for the music minor at the fourth semester of study, requires private lesson fee. Meets one-half hour each week. Prerequisites: MUS-111, MUS-112, and MUS-211.
MUS-280 Choral Techniques2 Hours
- This course will be divided into three modules. Module one: basic understanding of vocal production and pedagogy. Special emphasis on the development of the voice from a young age through adulthood. Module two: choral techniques pertaining to development of good choral tone and musicianship. Emphasis on rehearsal techniques and choral sound. Module three: literature for various levels and styles; efficient organization and operation of a choral ensemble.
MUS-281 Woodwind Techniques2 Hours
- This course is for the music major, who may or may not have prior knowledge or experience on a woodwind instrument. The opportunity to gain knowledge and experience on a wind instrument is considered essential in the teacher education process. For the applied or church music major, this course will provide foundational knowledge and performance skills for purposes of basic performing, teaching, or arranging. This course is designed to commence at the beginning performance/skill level, and will progress to a basic intermediate level.
MUS-282 String Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the technique of playing string instruments. Violin, viola, cello, and string bass are equally emphasized.
MUS-283 Percussion Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing all percussion instruments. Emphasis is placed on tympani, snare drum, and mallet instruments.
MUS-284 Brass Techniques2 Hours
- An introduction to the techniques of playing brass instruments. The trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, and tuba are equally emphasized.
MUS-363 Instrumental Methods2 Hours
- A comprehensive investigation of the instrumental music program. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the band and orchestra program including literature, teaching techniques, marching band, orchestra, concert band, jazz band, chamber music, and school, community, and parent support.

14-18 credit hours

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EDU-130 American Education3 Hours
- An orientation course for students who expect to enter the teaching profession. Considers the history, principles, problems, and philosophy of public education in American society. Study of the desired competencies in teaching, evaluation of one's own capacities, interests, and abilities, and planning of one's professional career.
EDU-296 Secondary School Observation/ Participation1-2 Hours
- Two weeks of full-time field experience within a public/private school classroom under direction of a classroom teacher and university supervisor. Course includes college seminars which provide overview and guidelines for classroom observation strategies. May Term. A current criminal background check may be required; students are responsible for related expenses. Prerequisites: EDU-130 or permission of the School of Teacher Education. CR/NC
EDU-240 Educational Psychology3 Hours
- A study of the learning processes, methods of evaluation, and basic classroom management techniques. Special attention is devoted to students with special needs and multicultural perspectives. A current criminal background check may be required; students are responsible for related expenses. Prerequisites: EDU-130 and PSY-150.
EDU-250 Principles of Teaching3 Hours
- The general methods course for senior high/junior high/middle school majors emphasizing lesson design, mastery teaching, motivation, effective instruction, classroom management, learning styles, and multicultural diversity. A current criminal background check may be required; students are responsible for related expenses.
PSY-276 Psychology of the Exceptional Learner3 Hours
- This course will explore the needs of children who differ in cognitive-academic, social-emotional, physical-sensory characteristics. (Required for all Education majors.)
EDU-324 Literacy in Diverse Classrooms3 Hours
- This course serves to introduce pre-service teachers to the problems involved in learning from text. This course emphasizes practical strategies of reading and writing and methods of teaching from text that are particularly appropriate for use in middle schools and high schools. This course also addresses issues of student diversity and characteristics of texts for the less able reader to the gifted/talented. Emphasis is placed on the integration of various theories and strategies based on current standards, research and recommendations of IRA, NCTE, NCTM, NCSS, ASCD, etc. Prerequisite: Admission to the Teacher Education Program, or permission of the School of Teacher Education.
EDU-382 Methods of Teaching Senior High/ Junior High/Middle School Subjects3 Hours
- The separate divisions of this course are given by instructors in the various departments. General methods of teaching for secondary majors include planning, teaching techniques, models of teaching, learning theories, measurement and evaluation, motivation, classroom management and discipline, culturally different learners, and special-needs learners as applied to teaching. Variations of this class are offered for English, Mathematics, Music, Physical and Health Education, Science, Spanish, Social Studies, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, and Visual Arts Education majors. Prerequisite: Admission to the Teacher Education Program. Co-requisite: EDU-382C.
EDU-382C Methods of Teaching Senior High/Junior High/Middle School Practicum1 Hours
- The separate divisions of this course are given by instructors in the various departments. General methods of teaching for secondary majors include planning, teaching techniques, models of teaching, learning theories, measurement and evaluation, motivation, classroom management and discipline, culturally different learners, and special-needs learners as applied to teaching. Field experiences will be offered in appropriate subject areas and grade levels. Variations of this class are offered for English, Mathematics, Music, Physical and Health Education, Science, Spanish, Social Studies, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, and Visual Arts Education majors. Prerequisite: Admission to the Teacher Education Program.
EDU-490 Supervised Student Teaching in Senior/Junior High/Middle School (5-12)15 Hours
- Full-time student teaching in accredited schools under the direction of a supervising teacher and a School of Teacher Education faculty supervisor. Students may, if selected, participate in the cross-cultural Student Teaching Experience in an approved overseas school. Each student will receive two 8-week placements. Placements will be diversified according to the student's program and licensing requirements. A current criminal background check may be required; students are responsible for related expenses. Prerequisites: Admission to Student Teaching and successful completion of Stages A-C of the Teacher Education Program. CR/NC
EDU-495 Student Teaching Seminar1 Hours
- A seminar stressing a professional examination of principles of classroom instruction and management, certification, job search procedures, interviewing strategies, mock interviews, accountability, and current issues in education. Activities relate theory to practical experience. An emphasis is placed upon the individual's refinement of reflective analysis skills regarding instructional/managerial strategies. CR/NC

37 credit hours

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Courses

Preview your classes

Music Major Core*

Emphasis: Choose one of the following options

Option 1—Choral Emphasis*

Option 2—Instrumental Emphasis

Option 3—Choral, General, and Instrumental Emphasis**

Professional Education Courses