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Is it better to study music at a university or at a community college after high school?

I am a music performance major and will be graduating with my associate's degree when graduating from high school. I would only have to focus on taking music classes. Is there a difference between music classes in college and university? What would you recommend? #music #college-major #music-education #college

Thank you comment icon The biggest difference is the cost and opportunities. Community colleges cost less but may have less opportunities. Universities have more opportunities and costs more.Both colleges will allow you to learn your craft, but you may have more connects and offers at university. I would recommend that you research the universities course work in your concentration and learn about the instructors.If you are able to afford university, I would highly suggest you apply. Call financial aid departments and see if you qualify for scholarships. Personal advice: Do not be afraid of attending a new school. Linda
Thank you comment icon I largely agree with the comment above. I would keep in mind the value of resources and networking that you would likely gain at institutions that have a strong focus in music. Scholarships can also dramatically reduce the cost of some institutions in comparison to others. It is very important for you to check out how your associates degree credits will transfer to differing schools - some schools may accept more or less of these credits than others (or transfer them to areas you do not really need them to be transferred to for the degree you are pursuing) - which would also impact cost. Most importantly, I think you need to decide what you want from your college/university in terms of experience there and cost of education post scholarships and transfer credits. Sabina

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Bridget’s Answer

It depends on what you’re looking for! Universities generally have more resources and more established programs, so you may have more opportunity for performance or more diverse classes and more established professors. But the cost can be prohibitive, so if that’s a major priority a community college may suit you better. If you’re going to be a performance major, I recommend looking for studio teachers you would want to study from while in college. That relationship is so important, so I’d say star there and let that help your decision. Good luck!!

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Elizabeth’s Answer

Hi Bridget! It's all about the teacher. I cannot stress this enough. You can go to the greatest school, but if you don't get a great teacher, it won't matter what school you are at. On the other hand, you can go to a "lesser" school and get a great teacher! So my best advice to you would be to do your research on what school has the best teacher for what you want to pursue. Attend a recital where one of his/her students is performing. Meet with the student afterwards and ask him/her directly about the teacher, his/her methods, style of teaching, personality, etc. Not every great teacher is for every student. It has to be a good match. You need to respect him/her, but the reverse is true, too! Your teacher needs to respect you! So yes, going to a good school is good. But finding the best teacher for you is best. Good luck!

Elizabeth recommends the following next steps:

I list the steps for you to take in my answer here above. :)
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Veronica’s Answer

As a graduate from a community college, starting off in a community college sounds like a good idea if you want to save some money.

Veronica recommends the following next steps:

Research a community college's music program
Research available financial aid
Research community college that offer music programs
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