undergraduate degree program
VanderCook is the only independent American college dedicated solely to music education. VCM graduates inspire a passion for music and learning in their students. If you’re a musician who wants to teach, there’s nowhere better to learn the craft.
About the Program:
- VanderCook’s practical curriculum emphasizes great musicianship and great teaching.
- You can join a small, supportive community with one focus – music education.
- You will learn to play and teach over 17 different instruments. Students sing, play piano, conduct and arrange music.
- Students perform with the Symphonic Band, Philharmonic Orchestra, Concert Choir, chamber ensembles, and as soloists.
- You will be eligible for K-12 teacher certification in all U.S. states upon graduation.
A Small Campus in a Big City
VanderCook is located on the campus of the Illinois Institute of Technology, combining a small school community with big school facilities, including IIT’s dormitories, Galvin Library, gymnasium, and McCormick Student Center.
Experience Chicago. From VanderCook, a short elevated train ride takes you to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and other world-class musical venues.
VanderCook is a safe campus. In over four years there have been no reportable crimes or misdemeanors at VanderCook or involving VCM students or faculty on the IIT campus.
Outstanding and Award-Winning Faculty
- You receive the benefit of our faculty’s in-depth, diverse experience as musicians with the world-class operas, orchestras, and ensembles of Chicago.
- All classes and lessons are taught by faculty – not by teaching assistants.
- VanderCook has a 6:1 student to teacher ratio, ensuring you’ll get individual attention