Music Education Starts Here...
Admissions
2024-2025 Visit Days
Make plans now to visit the VanderCook College of Music campus where you will participate in rehearsals and classes, meet our faculty and staff, complete your audition and more!
* Tuesday, November 19, 2024: VanderGiving & Faculty Recital/VanderCook Visit Day, Senior Day
* Tuesday, February 4, 2025: VanderCook Visit & Audition Day, Senior Day
Tuesday, March 4, 2025: VanderCook Visit & Audition Day, Senior Day
Friday, April 11, 2025: VanderCook Junior Visit Day
* Students applying for the VanderCook Scholars Program should plan to attend one of these sessions.
Explore VanderCook
Earning your degree in music is a rewarding experience. With an expert faculty and beautiful campus, you won’t find a more enjoyable place than VanderCook to achieve your goals.
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Music Education (BMEd)
The BMEd degree program is a comprehensive course of study designed to prepare candiditates to become well-versed music educators. Learn moreBachelor of Music in Performance and Pedagogy (BMped)
The BMped degree is designed to prepare candidates for a wide range of career paths including both performing and teaching. Learn moreBachelor of Music Education Pre-Certification (BMpc)
The BMpc degree is available to students seeking to complete their degree through VanderCook’s comprehensive curriculum without earning entitlement to receive teacher licensure. Learn moreGraduate Programs
Master of Music Education (MMEd)
Designed for working music teachers looking to earn their graduate degree in Music Education. Learn More
Master of Music Education and Certification (MCert)
The MCert is intended for those who wish to earn their Master of Music Education while completing the requirements for Illinois teaching licensure. Learn More
Teacher Certification Entitlement Program (TCEP)
Available for those who currently have undergraduate music degrees and wish to earn licensure to teach through the teacher licensure program. Learn More
Music Education Center of America (MECA) Continuing Education
The MECA program offers graduate-level courses designed to sharpen teaching skills and strategies in specific musical content areas. Learn More
How do I pay for college and when should I apply?
VanderCook College of Music works tirelessly to keep tuition costs lower than other schools, however, it can still be difficult to fund your education. 100% of our undergraduate students receive institution aid. Over 90% are awarded financial assistance. Contact our financial aid office to develop a plan that works for you. Are you ready to begin your journey at VanderCook? Apply now and follow all admissions requirements and timelines. Stay connected to VanderCook through our social media links and events calendar.
Student Resources
Performance Opportunities
You will perform over 20 times a year!
As a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, String Orchestra, Collegiate Chorale, Percussion Ensemble and Jazz Band, you will perform over 20 times a year on campus and throughout the city of Chicago.
The Midwest Clinic
VanderCook co-founded The Midwest Clinic: an international band and orchestra conference held in Chicago with more than 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. Throughout the history of The Midwest Clinic, VanderCook is the only college Symphonic Band invited to perform every year.
Chicago at Your Fingertips
Attending VanderCook gives you instant access to many of the city’s most famous and important cultural landmarks, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier and the Lyric Opera – all just minutes away from campus by bus, train or bike. All undergraduates receive a Ventra card for unlimited access to CTA trains and buses during the fall and spring semesters.