Effective Fall 2025, DGS will become the Division of Exploratory Studies. Same mission; new name.

Computer Science & Music

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science option in Computer Science and Music (CS+Music) is a program for undergraduate students who plan to pursue a career in music technology, as well as students that want to push the state-of-the-art in music composition and explore new avenues of expression.

Courses That Introduce the Major:
  • CS 124 - Intro to Computer Science 1
  • CS 128 - Intro to Computer Science 2 
  • MUS 101 - Music Theory and Practice I
  • MUS 107 - Musicianship I
  • MUS 110 - Introduction to Art Music: International Perspective

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period. 

Possible Career Opportunities:

This degree will prepare students for advanced study at the graduate level for many existing programs on music and audio technology, as well as equip them with the proper skills to successfully join and lead a vibrant workforce community centered around the creation and distribution of entertainment media through constantly evolving technological platforms.

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  • Ability to keep audience's interests
  • Ability to read and write music
  • Ability to use various sound equipment
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Basic reading, writing, editing skills
  • Communication skills
  • Creativity
  • Entertaining skills
  • Good stage presence
  • Humbleness
  • Observation skills
  • Performance techniques
  • Physical stamina
  • Self-discipline
  • Singing/instrumental talents
  • Teaching abilities
  • Versatility
  • Architectural Acoustic Monitor
  • Artist & Repertoire (A&R)
  • Church Music Director
  • Community Development
  • Composer/Arranger
  • Conductor
  • Copyright Specialist
  • Disc Jockey
  • Engineer/Mixer
  • Instrument Service Specialist
  • Film Music Editor
  • Music Software Programmer
  • Music Store Manager
  • Music Stringer
  • Music Teacher
  • Music Therapist
  • Manufacturers Representative
  • Music Attorney
  • Music Copyist
  • Music Critic
  • Music Promoter
  • Music Reporter
  • Musician
  • Orchestra Librarian
  • Piano Tuner
  • Publicist
  • Recording Technician
  • Singer
  • Studio Musician
  • Synthesizer Specialist
  • Tour Manager
  • Voice Teacher
Enhancing Your Academic Experience:
  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • Illinois Student Association of Music Scholars (ISAMS): enhance the academic experience, scholarship and community of students in musicology (historical and ethnographic) and related fields of music scholarship, including music theory, music education, and composition through fostering community interaction and dialogue, providing scholarly support and critical dialogue, offering professional development and organizational support.
    • iRobotics: focuses on competing in CARD and other robotics competitions, as well as spreading the word of science and technology to the community.
    • Women in Computer Science: offers a comfortable environment for everybody who studies and does research in computer science.
Further Information:

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science and Music. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse into the world of Computer Science and Music. These organizations include Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, Association for Computing Machinery, Association for Women in Computing, IEEE Computer Society, American Federation of Musicians and The American Musical Instruments Society.