The Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in music provides an alternative to the professional degree—the Bachelor of Music. The General Education requirement is similar to that specified for all other liberal arts programs.

Musicians may play musical instruments, sing, write musical compositions or conduct groups in vocal or instrumental performances. To gain admittance into the music program at Illinois State one must have extensive background in music and must complete an audition. The main focus of the program lies in three main areas. They are: Music Education, Music Therapy, and Performance. Majoring in music provides students with a sense of aesthetics and an understanding of human expression valuable to many employers.