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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MUS-102P Applied Study Perfor-Level 12 Hours
- This course provides individual instruction in the performance techniques and literature of the instruments and voice. Emphasis is placed on the development of a sound technical foundation, familiarity with the performance approaches and the study of the instrument's vast literature. Upon successful completion, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in technical skills and repertoire through performance. An additional fee per semester is required.
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-180 Humanities Fine Arts3 Hours
- An integrated study of history and appreciation of art and music in Western culture from ancient times to present. (Part of the Humanities Core Curriculum.)
MUS-202P Applied Study Perfor- Level 22 Hours
- This course provides individual instruction in the performance techniques and literature of the instruments and voice. Emphasis is placed on the development of a sound technical foundation, familiarity with the performance approaches and the study of the instrument's vast literature. Upon successful completion, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in technical skills and repertoire through performance. An additional fee per semester is required.
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-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-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-275 Introduction to Computer Applications in Music1 Hours
- Students will be introduced to topics in MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface), notation, MIDI controllers, and Internet music resources for PC-compatible computers. Prerequisite: MUS-162 or equivalent.
MUS-302P Applied Study Perfor Level 32 Hours
- This course provides individual instruction in the performance techniques and literature of the instruments and voice. Emphasis is placed on the development of a sound technical foundation, familiarity with the performance approaches and the study of the instrument's vast literature. Upon successful completion, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in technical skills and repertoire through performance. An additional fee per semester is required.

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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-402P Applied Study Perfor-Level 42 Hours
- This course provides individual instruction in the performance techniques and literature of the instruments and voice. Emphasis is placed on the development of a sound technical foundation, familiarity with the performance approaches and the study of the instrument's vast literature. Upon successful completion, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in technical skills and repertoire through performance. An additional fee per semester is required.
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-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.

46 credit hours

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MUS-105 Class Piano Level I2 Hours
- This course is designed for students with no previous piano instruction. Development of two-hand coordination, five-finger patterns, playing two independent lines simultaneously, all major tetrachords, five major scales in two octaves (hands separately), triad playing, I, IV, V chords, ensemble, transposition, pedaling and sight reading.
MUS-119 Keyboard Skills I1 Hours
- Designed for Piano majors to increase functional skills on keyboard such as harmonization with a variety of accompaniment styles, reading of four-part vocal and instrumental scores, transposition of easy contrapuntal pieces at sight, hymn playing with adaptations, art-song accompaniments with concentration on style, balance, etc., sight-reading (about grade three), patriotic songs and improvisation.
MUS-165 Class Piano Level II2 Hours
- This course includes two and three-part textures, I, IV, V, V7 chords in root position and inversions for progressions and harmonization, elementary accompaniment styles, seven major scales (hands together), seven minor scales (hands separately), arpeggios, alto and tenor clef score reading, and sight reading. Prerequisite: MUS-105 or equivalent; MUS-162 (Theory I) prior to or during same semester.
MUS-205 Class Piano Level III2 Hours
- Greater independence of hands in intermediate repertoire using three- and four-part textures, more challenging rhythms, secondary chords (ii, iii, vi) used for harmonization, four-part hymn transposition, transposition of instruments in score-reading, major scales to four sharps and four flats, parallel minor scales (all hands together), arpeggios, sight reading. Prerequisite: MUS-165 or equivalent; MUS-261 (Theory II) prior to or during same semester.
MUS-268 Counterpoint2 Hours
- Beginning students will work with first- through fifth-species counterpoint in two and three voices with a cantus firmus. Work will include exercises in canon and invertible counterpoint.
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-305 Class Piano Level IV2 Hours
- This course is for more advanced level of competency in keyboard playing and includes technical studies (2 octave scales and arpeggios in all keys, hands together), late intermediate repertoire, harmonization using secondary dominant with stylized accompaniment, 3-4 part vocal score reading, art song accompaniment, selected patriotic songs, and 4 part texture transposition to neighboring keys. Prerequisite: MUS-205 or equivalent; MUS-264 (Theory III) prior to or during same semester.
MUS-318 Orchestration2 Hours
- Study of the characteristics of orchestra and other instruments and techniques for scoring for these instruments in various combinations. Prerequisite: MUS-261.

15 credit hours

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MUS-182 Piano Ensemble0-1 Hours
- The course is designed to familiarize pianists with the wide variety of literature available for piano ensemble playing, from piano duet to works for multiple pianos.
MUS-192 University Chorale0-1 Hours
- The University Chorale is a mixed choral ensemble of approximately 80-85 voices. Repertoire consists of sacred classics, hymns, spirituals and contemporary compositions, in addition to major choral/orchestral works. The Chorale represents the University in concert at various community and university events. Admittance is by audition and approval of the director. This ensemble meets four times each week. The course meets the large ensemble requirement for those individuals whose major is in the area of voice. Participants enrolled in first semester are expected to enroll the second semester.
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-194 Chamber Singers0-1 Hours
- Chamber Singers is a mixed ensemble of approximately 18-20 voices. Repertoire consists of chamber music from all periods of Western Music History along with contemporary compositions. The Chamber Singers represent the University in concert at various community and university events. Admittance is by audition and approval of the director. This ensemble meets two times each week. Participants enrolled in the first semester are expected to enroll the second semester.
MUS-196 Wind Ensemble0-1 Hours
- Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and other large 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 four times a week. Participants enrolled in the first semester are expected to enroll the second semester.
MUS-198 Orchestra0-1 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. Participants enrolled in the first semester are expected to enroll the second semester.

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MUS-173 Handbell Ensemble0-1 Hours
- This course will offer students an opportunity to develop their musicianship, music reading and performance skills through the study of handbell literature.
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-175 Chapel Ensemble0-1 Hours
- This course will provide an opportunity for singers and instrumentalists to adequately train and rehearse in preparation to lead worship for IWU Chapel. Students will form various ensembles-in agreement with their area of expertise-and from such ensembles worship music for all Chapels will be provided. This is a mandatory class for all students willing to participate in IWU Chapel Worship Teams. Can earn 1 hour credit (may be repeated for 0 hr credit).
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-178 Saxophone Quartet0-1 Hours
- The saxophone 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-179 Woodwind Quintet0-1 Hours
- The woodwind 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-183 IWU Jazz Combo0-1 Hours
- The IWU Jazz Combo provides the opportunity to explore the jazz medium in greater detail. The term "jazz combo" is used to describe almost any group of instruments smaller than ten pieces, which would include a rhythm section (drums, bass, piano), and at least 2 soloists. This ensemble's greatest emphasis will be in the area of improvisation and it will practice a variety of tunes drawn from the following categories: Bebop, modal, standards, ballads, rhythm and blues, blues, Latin, contemporary, and sacred. As Christian musicians, it is imperative that we strive to serve God in our music. This style is an opportunity to praise God and serve Him in a wonderful and different way.
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-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.

7 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.

4 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-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-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.

9 credit hours

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