Division of Communication and Fine Arts
Studies in Communication, Music & Theatre, Worship Arts, Art & Illustration, Digital Cinema, Graphic Design, and Photography

Agee, Andrus, Armstrong, Dromi, Edwards, Goehner, Gregor, Holland, Martin, Peer, Pohle, Smith, Snediker, Whitley, Wubbena (chair)
The Division of Communication and Fine Arts is comprised of the Departments of Communication, Music & Theatre, and Visual Arts. Bachelor's degrees are offered in Art and Illustration, Communication, Digital Cinema, General Music, Graphic Design, Applied Music, Music Education, Photography, and Worship Arts. Minors are offered in all areas, as well as Theatre.
The mission of the Division of Communication and Fine Arts is to teach, nurture, and model excellence and integrity in creativity, scholarship, spiritual formation, and professional development.
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION
(SYMBOL: COM)
The mission of the Department of Communication is to produce tomorrow's industry professionals, civic leaders, and lifelong learners who are dedicated to serving and making a difference in a domestic and global context. The department encourages ways of communicating that are rooted in an acceptance and appreciation of others.
Student Learning Outcomes:
The Department of Communication has identified the following seven student learning outcomes:
1. Students will be able to think clearly, critically, and creatively in response to communication problems.
2. Students will express ideas in oral, written, and mediated messages that are coherent, persuasive, and ethical.
3. Students will demonstrate the communication skills necessary to engage in personal, professional, civic, and social relationships.
4. Students will adapt oral, visual, written, and mediated messages to diverse audiences across multiple platforms.
5. Students will analyze and evaluate verbal and nonverbal messages in differing social, political, and cultural contexts
in order to assess their effectiveness.
6. Students will use current technology related to the communication field.
7. Students will work productively in groups and teams on a range of communication projects.
The Department of Communication celebrates the centrality of communication in human life as well as our students' potential to positively influence society through the effective practice of communication across many contexts and through multiple media.
Varying contexts require different communication methods and styles. Department core courses teach human and mediated communication in a variety of contexts and effectively combine theory with practice. Students are encouraged to pursue their own communication calling as they seek to impact an increasingly diverse and global society.
Communication majors are well-prepared for effective work in media industries, business, non-profit organizations and ministries that require excellent communication. Strong written, interpersonal, oral, and media production skills are crucial for successful communication professionals. Creative Christian leadership is emphasized to prepare students for careers in both faith-based and secular communication fields. Local, national, and international internship and mission trip opportunities allow participating students to further develop a global perspective.
Additionally, students in the Department of Communication are actively engaged in the John Brown University community through co-curricular activities. JBU Communication students produce the award-winning student newspaper, The Threefold Advocate, Eagle Break and The Nesher. Students work with online radio station MyPositiveEdge.com, and at KLRC 90.9 FM, JBU's professional radio station. Golden Eagle Television Productions offers students the opportunity to produce live video coverage of JBU home basketball games. The department also sponsors speech and debate competition through its award-winning forensics team.
Emphasis Options
Majors may shape their program with an advisor or choose to concentrate their study within one of the following areas of emphasis:
The Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement Emphasis offers students a chance to learn writing, information gathering and reporting, formatting, editing, anchoring, and producing for both traditional digital and media platforms. Among the tools that students use to report live are some of the latest technologies, such as Twitter© and Skype©. Students also study critical issues faced in today's complex communications environment. "Hands-on" experience is emphasized in the digital journalism curriculum.
The Public Relations Emphasis provides students with instruction in the principles, processes, skills, and management of public relations programs designed to attain or maintain inter-organizational or social accord. Students learn both the basic skills of writing, graphics, and oral presentation, as well as the managerial functions of planning, research, campaign development, and evaluation. The program prepares students with a solid ethical foundation, an awareness of diversity and multiculturalism, and an understanding of the use of social media for strategic engagement with an organization's many audiences or publics.
The Media Production Emphasis teaches students the production skills and industry knowledge necessary to impact society through the development of compelling media programming. This emphasis empowers students to become successful cultural leaders in the burgeoning business of creating and distributing media content. Essential industry courses expand beyond production to teach programming strategies, law, sales, and entrepreneurship.
The Media Communication Emphasis provides students with the opportunity to become excellent communicators who can speak, write, and use media in a highly effective manner. Outstanding communication skills prepare students to work in a wide variety of contexts such as business, media, ministry, and non-profit organizations. Generalists choose courses from the three department emphases (in consultation with an advisor) to build a program that best suits their goals in the communication field. Communication majors also choose department co-curricular activities according to their interests.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Communication
1. University Core Curriculum - 55 hours
2. Communication Department Core - 18 hours
COM 1173 Faith, Media, and Calling
COM 2123 News Writing and Reporting
COM 2433 Diversity and Media Issues
COM 4293 Media Law and Digital Ethics
COM 4443 Communication Internship
3. Emphases Options:
A. Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement Emphasis - 37 hours
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 2163 Communication Technologies
COM 2353 Public Relations Writing and Technology
COM 3153 Specialized Media Production
COM 4433 Interpersonal Communication
Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement Practicum Electives - 4 hours
COM 2111/12 Practicum in Journalism
COM 3111/12 Advanced Practicum in Journalism
COM 4211/12 Online News Bureau Practicum
Nine hours from the following:
ART 1403 Introduction to Imaging
COM 3703 Leadership and Media Management
COM 4363 Political Communication
B. Public Relations Emphasis - 37 hours
COM 2343 News Editing for Public Relations
COM 2353 Public Relations Writing and Technology
COM 3653 Specialized Media Production for Public Relations
COM 4433 Interpersonal Communication
COM 4453 Public Relations Planning
MKT 4123 Integrated Marketing Communications
Public Relations Practicum Electives - 4 hours
COM 2111/12 Practicum in Journalism (Advertising)
Six hours from the following:
C. Media Production Emphasis - 37 hours
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 1233 Podcasting and Online Audio Production
COM 2163 Communication Technologies
COM 3153 Specialized Media Production
COM 3703 Leadership and Media Management
COM 4182 Sports/News Broadcasting
COM 4243 Script Writing Workshop
COM 4333 Advanced Video/Audio Production
COM 4343 Media Programming and Promotion
Radio Practicum - 3 hours
COM 1101 Beginning Radio Practicum
COM 2101 Intermediate Radio Practicum
COM 3101 Advanced Radio Practicum
Media Production Practicum Electives - 2 hours
COM 1131 Beginning Media Production Performance Practicum
COM 2111/12 Practicum in Journalism
COM 2131 Intermediate Media Production Performance Practicum
COM 3121 Video/Audio Sports Practicum
COM 3321 Independent Video Production
COM 3141 Media Production Program Assistant
COM 3151 KLRC Program Assistant
COM 3421 Advanced Media Production Practicum
Six hours from the following:
COM 4363 Political Communication
COM 4413 Selected Topics in Media Production
D. Media Communication Emphasis - 37 hours
Students in the Media Communication Emphasis take courses in all three areas of the Communication Department: Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement, Media Production, and Public Relations. With the guidance of their advisor, students will create a study plan that consists of 37 hours in Communication.
1. Emphases Requirements - 27 hours (9 or more hours in each of the following), as advised
A. Digital Journalism and Civic Engagement courses
B. Media Production courses
C. Public Relations courses
2. COM electives - 6 hours, as advised
3. Practicum - 4 hours (minimum), as advised
At least 15 hours must be upper-division course work.
4. Minor field or electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours.
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
View 4-Year Plan - Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement
View 4-Year Plan - Public Relations
View 4-Year Plan - Media Production
View 4-Year Plan - Media Communication
Requirements for minor in Digital Journalism & Civic Engagement
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 2123 News Writing and Reporting
One of the following:
COM 3153 Specialized Media Production
COM 3653 Specialized Media Production for Public Relations
One of the following:
COM 2111/12 Practicum in Journalism (3 practicum hours)
COM 3703 Leadership and Media Management
COM 4363 Political Communication
Requirements for minor in Public Relations
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
COM 1173 Faith, Media, and Calling
COM 2123 News Writing and Reporting
COM 2353 Public Relations Writing and Technology
COM 4433 Interpersonal Communication
One of the following:
COM 3153 Specialized Media Production
COM 3653 Specialized Media Production for Public Relations
One of the following:
COM 3703 Leadership and Media Management
COM 4363 Political Communication
Requirements for minor in Sports Media
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 1233 Podcasting and Online Audio Production
COM 2123 News Writing and Reporting
COM 2163 Communication Technologies
COM 4182 Sports/News Broadcasting
COM 4243 Script Writing Workshop
Four hours in two or more of the following:
COM 1101 Beginning Radio Practicum
COM 2101 Intermediate Radio Practicum
COM 3101 Advanced Radio Practicum
COM 3151 KLRC Program Assistant
COM 3321 Independent Video Production
COM 3421 Advanced Media Production Practicum
COM 4333 Advanced Video/Audio Production
At least one hour must be upper-division course work.
Requirements for minor in Radio and Public Media
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
COM 1101 Beginning Radio Practicum
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 1233 Podcasting and Online Audio Production
COM 2163 Communication Technologies
COM 4333 Advanced Video/Audio Production
COM 4363 Political Communication
Five hours in at least three of the following:
COM 1131 Beginning Media Production Performance Practicum
COM 2131 Intermediate Media Production Performance Practicum
COM 3321 Independent Video Production
COM 3421 Advanced Media Production Practicum
Requirements for minor in Communication and Forensics
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
COM 1153 Introduction to Video and Audio Production
COM 2121 Beginning Forensics Practicum
COM 2123 News Writing and Reporting
COM 4243 Script Writing Workshop
One of the following:
COM 4363 Political Communication
Three hours from the following:
COM 3161/62 Intermediate Forensics Practicum
Two hours from the following:
COM 4161, 62 Advanced Forensics Practicum
DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC AND THEATRE
(SYMBOL: MUS)
The mission of the John Brown University Department of Music and Theatre is to facilitate growth toward musical and theatrical excellence as a means of glorifying God.
Student Learning Outcomes:
The student learning outcomes of the music and theatre department are directly tied to education of the head, heart, and hand:
I. HEAD: Demonstrate theoretical, historical, and technological competencies.
II. HEART: Develop Christ-like character through personal spiritual disciplines and community accountability.
III. HAND: Practice intellectual competencies and Christian character through excellence in performance and vocation.
All bachelor degree programs within the Department of Music and Theatre are designed to produce the following student learning outcomes in all graduating students:
1. Students will perform literature specific to emphasis and field of study, demonstrating stylistic insight, technical proficiency, musical artistry and a scholarly thought process.
2. Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of the pre-performance aspects of music through written and aural mediums, based on fundamental theoretical principles.
3. Students will describe and explain the historical development of music, identifying historical styles and performance practices, musical forms, repertoire of different media, and the lives and contributions of outstanding musicians.
4. Students will demonstrate a working knowledge and application of technology and software used in various musical platforms and professions.
5. Students will develop an understanding of key principles, terms and theories in the sub-fields of music and education; and/or demonstrate mastery of these principles on national standardized tests.
6. Students will develop a personal philosophy of the arts, thinking through the integration of art and faith, the role of the arts in modern society, and the pedagogical responsibilities that come with being an educated artist.
7. Students will use the professional skills learned to serve the community of JBU and beyond.
For those wishing to follow careers in music and/or worship arts, courses are offered leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Music Education. These curricula provide a well-rounded education for those wishing to enter the music profession as artists, teachers, conductors, church worship leaders and tech support, and musicians in other fields. In addition, the degrees in general music with various specific concentrations are designed for the student who anticipates graduate work in business, counseling/psychology, seminary, ethnomusicology, ethnodoxology, or other (minor related) field. These concentrations also provide guided course work in a specific area that can serve as sufficient supplemental education for numerous career options upon graduation.
All programs in music are closely aligned with work in Bible, liberal arts, and technological departments, also providing students majoring outside the Department of Music and Theatre the opportunity to study music as a minor or as an elective.
Admission Requirements for the Music Major/Minor
In addition to satisfying the university's general requirements for admission, all applicants must audition for admission to the Music Program. During the audition, each candidate must demonstrate musical ability and potential, including a good sense of rhythm and the ability to sing in tune. Applicants are strongly advised to develop familiarity with both bass and treble clef before university study.
1. Vocal major/minor audition:
a. Performance of two prepared songs. Suggested works include songs by classical composers (in a foreign language, if possible) and songs from operettas or Broadway musicals. For Worship Arts majors, one of the two selections may be a praise and worship song.
b. Demonstration of skills at the keyboard or other instrument, as applicable. (Lack of piano skills will not preclude admittance to a music degree program. However, all majors must demonstrate specific piano skills before degree completion. Appropriate classes or private study will be required of all students based on keyboard proficiency.)
c. Sight-reading a short excerpt.
2. Piano or Organ major/minor audition:
a. Performance of two prepared selections from traditional literature, representing contrasting style periods. For Worship Arts majors, one of the prepared selections may be an arrangement of a praise and worship song or traditional hymn.
b. Prepare four major and four harmonic minor scales.
c. Sight-reading a short excerpt.
3. Instrumental major/minor audition:
a. Performance of two contrasting selections demonstrating lyrical playing and technical proficiency. Repertoire may include studies, etudes and sonata or concerto literature, classical in nature. Repertoire should be comparable to that of state solo and ensemble competitions.
b. Playing of major scales through four sharps and four flats demonstrating the full range of the instrument.
c. Sight-reading a short excerpt.
Note: Bass players, guitar players, and set drummers may send a recording consisting of a demonstration of playing in contemporary styles and improvising. Recorded excerpts from ensembles such as jazz bands, combos, and worship teams may be included to demonstrate abilities in ensemble playing.
Students entering during the fall semester should complete the auditions by April 1. Audition forms are available online at www.jbu.edu/music.
An on-campus audition is preferable both for the student and for the faculty, but in cases where travel to Siloam Springs presents an insurmountable hardship, a recording incorporating the specified audition requirements will suffice. Students accepted on the basis of a recorded audition will need to complete the remainder of the process during Freshman Orientation prior to registration. They may be asked to present part of their audition at that time.
Students are advised to complete all aspects of the audition as early in the high school senior year as possible. Those with deficiencies will be so advised, so that they may begin to work in the necessary area(s) before entering the university. Upon entrance, those who have not met the departmental standards may be granted permission by the music faculty to declare a provisional major until such deficiencies are eliminated. Prerequisite work in the major applied area is designated as MUS 09_1 or MUS 0891 and does not count toward the major, the minor, or graduation hours. Once the deficiencies are removed, a student enrolls for degree credit in the applied field (MUS 19x1, 19x2, 1891 or 1892). Students entering with deficiencies in the major applied area typically require nine or ten semesters, rather than the standard eight, to finish the baccalaureate degree. B.Mus.Ed. is a nine-semester degree: eight semesters of course work and the ninth semester spent in an internship. It is possible to complete the degree in eight semesters only if a student transfers in approved hours.
Transfer students are required to audition for admittance into the music program (see Admission Requirements for the Major/Minor). Skills in the areas of theory, musicianship, piano/voice and the applied concentration will be assessed at the time of the audition. Repeating previous course work may be required.
Applied Music Scholarships
The awarding of a music scholarship is based primarily on performance ability as determined in the audition for admission described above, or on ability demonstrated in ongoing applied instruction. After receiving a scholarship, the student must earn a GPA of 2.0 each semester, a 3.0 GPA in the major applied area, and a 2.5 cumulative GPA to retain the scholarship. Scholarships are reviewed annually and may be adjusted higher or lower based upon the merit of the recipient's academic and applied work.
A student majoring in a music program may expect to retain a scholarship for eight semesters providing the above criteria are met. An exception is made for a student in the music education program who is completing the internship during a ninth semester. If a student fails to meet any portion of the applied scholarship requirements, that student will be placed on probation, but will retain the applied music scholarship for the following semester. At the end of the probationary period, the progress of the student will be reassessed. At such time, the applied music scholarship will either be continued or discontinued.
Applied music scholarships are not available for students minoring in the music program. Ensemble scholarships may be available to all students.
General Requirements for Music Degrees
1. Demonstrated potential. Each candidate must select a primary performance medium (voice, piano, organ, or instrument), meet yearly requirements as set by the music faculty, and fulfill all stated degree requirements. The B.A. with an emphasis in Voice, Piano, or Organ requires that students demonstrate adequate potential in performance before being allowed to pursue this degree program. Official admittance occurs at the end of the second semester of the sophomore year, only upon recommendation of the faculty, after the student has passed the Upper Division Applied Admittance Exam. Students desiring to pursue the performance degree must enroll each term in two-credit applied lessons in the major area.
2. Ensemble participation requirements. Each major is required to participate satisfactorily in at least one ensemble per semester at JBU. (The faculty will grant exceptions to B.Mus.Ed. students during the semester of their internship or to students taking fewer than six hours.) Up to four hours of Accompanying Practicum (after meeting the specified prerequisites) may count as ensemble credit for those whose major instrument is piano. Students may choose music theatre, choral, or instrumental groups. Qualified non-majors are encouraged to participate.
3. Recital attendance. Satisfactory completion of MUS 1000 Recital Attendance is required every semester majors are full-time students at JBU. Students in B.Mus.Ed. are exempted the semester of their internship. Two semesters are required of minors.
4. Recital participation. All majors enrolled in applied lessons are required to perform in a departmental recital in their area of concentration once during the first year of study and at least once each semester thereafter, or at the discretion of the teacher.
5. Jury exams. Counterparts to final exams in lecture courses, juries are scheduled at the end of each semester of applied study. Jury grades assigned by the adjudicators have an impact on the applied course grade, although the final grade is assigned at the discretion of the instructor.
6. Piano Proficiency. Incoming students will be assessed in the area of piano skills, and placed in an appropriate level piano course. A Piano Proficiency Exam will be administered at the end of Class Piano IV or after the first semester of Applied Piano, whichever occurs first. All music majors, regardless of degree, must pass each section of the Piano Proficiency Exam. Students who do not pass the Piano Proficiency will be required to either: (1) repeat Class Piano IV; or (2) enroll in remedial Applied Piano MUS 0991 and pass the proficiency before proceeding to Applied Piano for credit. Students who do not pass all sections of the Piano Proficiency Exam will not be awarded a music degree.
The Piano Proficiency Exam is given in seven sections, as follows:
(1) Sight-read a 4-part hymn/chorale;
(2) Sight-read a solo piece of early-intermediate level;
(3) Play all major scales 4 octaves in eighth notes at a minimum tempo of MM=120 per quarter note, hands together;
(4) Play I-IV-I-V65-I chord progression in all keys, major and minor, at a minimum tempo of MM=100 (one chord per beat);
(5) Harmonize a melody at sight;
(6) Play prepared accompaniment of early intermediate level with soloist;
(7) Perform a solo piece of early intermediate level (score may be used).
Qualified non-keyboard majors may enroll in piano and organ lessons with an upper-division number (3000+) only after taking four semesters of keyboard and passing the Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam.
7. Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam. The Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam is taken by all majors. The exam is taken instead of the jury at the end of the fourth semester of degree credit in the major applied performance medium, and it is twice the length of a usual jury.
The student must pass the "a" part of the exam in the respective applied area (see below) before earning upper-division credit in applied music; if the student does not pass the "a" requirement, the next semester of study is taken for additional lower-division credit.
A student who does not pass the other parts of the exam in the respective applied area may earn upper-division credit in the applied area for the next semester, but will re-take those other parts of the exam at the end of the next semester of study. If the student fails a second time, subsequent applied study will be for lower-division credit until the student passes all remaining parts of the exam.
The same policy applies to transfer students. They must pass the "a" part of the exam in the respective applied area in order to register for upper-division credit for the next semester. If they fail any other parts of the exam not passed on the first attempt, they must re-take those parts of the exam at the end of that semester in order to continue to earn upper-division credit. Otherwise, subsequent applied study will be for lower-division credit until they pass all remaining parts of the exam.
Voice expectations:
a. perform four songs or arias (arias count for two songs) from current repertoire by memory in three languages (English, Italian, and German), of varying styles, and demonstrating developing musicality and expressiveness; and
b. demonstrate sight-reading proficiency using techniques learned in musicianship classes. The difficulty of the music selection corresponds with the amount of completed coursework specific to each degree program.
Piano expectations:
a. play advanced literature from three of the following style periods: (1) Baroque (Bach WTC or comparable-more difficult than Two-part Inventions); (2) Classical (Beethoven or Mozart sonata or comparable literature); (3) Romantic (Chopin, Brahms); and (4) Impressionistic/20th century (Debussy, Prokofieff). At least one piece or movement is to be completely memorized. The performance of these requirements should be stylistically convincing, and the performer should display a developing sense of musicality and expressiveness;
b. play major, harmonic, and melodic minor scales for four octaves in sixteenth notes at a minimum tempo of MM=120 per quarter note, hands together;
c. play major and minor arpeggios in all inversions for four octaves in sixteenth notes at a minimum tempo of MM=100 per quarter note, hands together;
d. play major and minor cadences (I-IV-I64-V7-I) with right hand in all inversions and left hand in octaves; and
e. sight-read (1) a hymn having three or more sharps or flats in the key signature with intermediate rhythmic complexity and (2) a vocal accompaniment of an early-intermediate level.
Worship Arts Piano expectations:
a. play advanced literature from two of the following style periods: (1) Baroque (Bach WTC or comparable - more difficult than Two-part Interventions); (2) Classical (Beethoven or Mozart sonata or comparable literature); (3) Romantic (Chopin, Brahms); and (4) Impressionistic/20th century (Debussy, Prokofieff). At least one piece or movement is to be completely memorized. The performance of these requirements should be stylistically convincing, and the performer should display a developing sense of musicality and expressiveness;
b. play major, harmonic, and melodic minor scales for four octaves in sixteenth notes at a minimum tempo of MM=100 per quarter note, hands together;
c. play major and minor arpeggios in all inversions for four octaves in sixteenth notes at a minimum tempo of MM=80 per quarter note, hands together;
d. play major and minor cadences (I-IV-I64-V7-I) with right hand in all inversions and left hand in octaves; and
e. sight-read (1) a hymn having three or more sharps or flats in the key signature with intermediate rhythmic complexity; (2) a vocal accompaniment of an early-intermediate level; and (3) a contemporary worship song written on a lead sheet.
Organ expectations:
a. play one work from each of these style periods: (1) Baroque, (2) Romantic, and (3) 20th century. The performance of these requirements should be stylistically convincing and the performer should display a developing sense of musicality and expressiveness;
b. play an introduction and two stanzas of a hymn. The stanzas must be played in a contrasting manner, as appropriate for the text;
c. play a hymn transposed up or down a half-step and whole step; and
d. sight-read (1) a hymn having three or more sharps or flats in the key signature with intermediate rhythmic complexity and (2) a simple work in trio texture.
Each candidate for the B.A. degree with an emphasis in organ is also required to earn the Service Playing Certificate (SPC) of the American Guild of Organists before entering upper-division work.
Instrumental expectations:
a. perform literature from three stylistic periods. The performances should be stylistically convincing and the performer should display a developing sense of musicality and expressiveness.
b. play scales and other technical exercises as appropriate.
c. demonstrate sight-reading proficiency, as determined by the instructor.
8. Recital or Presentation.
A candidate for the B.A. degree in Applied Music (specialization in Organ, Piano, or Voice) is required to present a half recital during the junior year (MUS 3900) and a full recital during the senior year (MUS 4900). These recitals may not take place during consecutive semesters.
A candidate for the B.A. or B.S. degree in General Music has the choice between a half recital during the senior year (MUS 4900) or a Senior Presentation (MUS 4910). Four hours of upper-division credit in the applied concentration is necessary in order to perform a senior recital.
A candidate for the B.Mus.Ed. degree is required to perform a half recital during the senior year (MUS 4900).
A candidate for the B.S. degree in Worship Arts is required to design and execute a corporate worship service (Senior Presentation in Worship Arts MUS 4920).
Recitalists are required to enroll in applied lessons during the semester the recital is scheduled. Similarly, those choosing the Senior Presentation or the Senior Presentation in Worship Arts must enroll in MUS 4191 Senior Presentation Preparation for faculty mentoring.
9. Major Field Test in Music. All majors (except those majoring in Worship Arts) are required to take the Major Field Test in Music as a condition of graduation after completing MUS 4113 and 3223. If one of these courses is taken in the last semester of study, the Major Field Test should be taken as late in the semester as practical.
10. Certification for Organists. All candidates for the B.A. with emphasis in Organ must take the examination for the Colleague Certificate of the American Guild of Organists (CAGO) no later than the beginning of the last semester of study.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Applied Music (specialization in Organ, Piano, or Voice)
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by MUS 1203 in the program requirements.
2. Courses Specified by the Department - 28 hours
MUS 1203 Liberal Arts Foundations for the Musician
MUS 4103* Music Arranging with MIDI
MUS 4113 Harmonic Form and Analysis
3. One of the following Specializations - 31 hours
Voice
MUS 1931/41, 2931/41 Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
MUS 1980/3980 Studio Class in Voice (each semester of Applied Voice*)
MUS 1981* Applied Voice: 8 hours
MUS 3981* Applied Voice: 8 hours
Music Theatre - 6 hours from
MUS 1731/3731 Music and Theatre Scenes
MUS 1732/3732 Music Theatre Production
Choral Ensemble: a minimum of two semesters (see Ensemble participation requirements)
MUS 1991* Applied Piano: 8 hours
MUS 3991* Applied Piano: 8 hours
MUS 1990/3990 Studio Class in Piano (each semester of Applied Piano)
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
MUS 3601 Music Practicum: Accompanying
Ensemble participation: 6 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
MUS 1971* Applied Organ: 8 hours
MUS 3971* Applied Organ: 8 hours
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 1990/3990 Studio Class in Piano (each semester of Applied Organ*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
MUS 3611 Music Practicum: Church Organist
MUS 4273 Organ Literature and Pedagogy
Ensemble participation: 6 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
4. Foreign Language - 12 hours
For Voice majors:
For Piano, Organ, or Instrumental majors:
Twelve hours of LS-1000, LS-2000 level courses; or six hours of LS-2000 level courses
Completion of an intermediate language course meets the Global Studies requirement of the Core Curriculum
5. Electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
*See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in General Music
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by MUS 1203 in the program requirements.
2. Courses Specified by this Department - 29 hours
MUS 1203 Liberal Arts Foundations for the Musician
MUS 4103* Music Arranging with MIDI
MUS 4113 Harmonic Form and Analysis
Capstone Option A or B:
A. MUS 39_1* or 3981* Applied Lessons
MUS 4900* Senior Recital (half recital)
B. MUS 4191* Senior Presentation Preparation
3. One of the following Emphases - 12 or 13 hours
Voice
MUS 1981* Applied Voice: 4 hours
MUS 1980 Studio Class in Voice: 4 semesters
MUS 1931/41, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Piano
MUS 1991* Applied Piano: 4 hours
MUS 1990 Studio Class in Piano: 4 semesters
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Organ
MUS 1971* Applied Organ: 4 hours
MUS 1990 Studio Class in Piano: 4 semesters
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Instrumental Music (as applied instructors are available)
MUS 1891* Applied Instrument: 4 hours
MUS 1890 Instrumental Music Studio Class: 4 semesters (as needed and available)
MUS 1931/41, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice (or 1 hour of Applied Voice*)
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
3a. Successful completion of the Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam in the applied concentration
Any additional hours in applied area will count as music electives. Any hours taken after passing the Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam will be taken at the 3000-level for upper-division credit. Four hours of upper-division credit is a requirement for performing a senior recital.
4. Choose a minimum of one additional upper-division hour in music if concentrating in voice or instrumental music
5. Concentration Option - 21 hours
Students may choose a concentration as listed below in Business, Family and Human Services, Intercultural Studies, or Worship Arts. Students who do not select one of these options will fulfill their non-major requirements with electives.
A. Business
ATG 2173 Principles of Financial Accounting
ATG 2183 Managerial Accounting
FIN 3003 Principles of Finance
MKT 2143 Principles of Marketing
An additional 3 hours of upper-division course work from the College of Business
B. Education
ED 2143 Learning Theories & Developmental Psychology
ED 2713 Differentiated Learning
MUS 3101* Survey of Instruments
MUS 3313 Public School Music Methods: K-6
MUS 4573 Public School Music Methods: 7-12
MUS 1__1/3__1* Two hours in an applied area
MUS 1__0/3__0* Two hours in studio class, as appropriate or available
One of the following:
MUS 1731 Music & Theatre Scenes
MUS 1732 Music Theatre Production
C. Family and Human Services
FAM 2123 Introduction to Family Science
FAM 3133 Marriage and Family Living
PSY 2233 Theories of Counseling
PSY 2243 Introduction to Therapeutic Interviewing
D. Intercultural Studies
BBL 3583 Perspectives on the World Christian Movement
CMN 2263 Discipleship and Evangelism
ICS 2113 Intercultural Communication
ICS 2123 Cultural Anthropology
ICS 3243 Principles and Philosophy of Community Development
One of the following:
RPH 3323 Philosophy of the Christian Faith
One of the following:
RPH 3533 Introduction to Islam
RPH 3543 Introduction to Hinduism/Buddhism
E. Vocal Pedagogy
LS 1__3 Six hours in Elementary French or German
MUS 1881* Applied Piano as an Elective - 2 hours
MUS 3131 Commercial Voice Techniques
MUS 3620 Music Practicum: Community Arts Academy Student Instructor
MUS 3980 Studio Class in Voice - 4 hours
MUS 3981* Applied Voice - 4 hours
F. Worship Arts
MUS 2503 Worship Arts I: Orientation
MUS 2513 Worship Arts II: Materials and Methods
MUS 3232 Contemporary Worship Music in Theory and Practice
MUS 3501 Writing for the Church
One of the following:
One of the following:
MUS 3323 Children's Music Ministry Methods
6. Electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
View 4-Year Plan - Piano-Organ
View 4-Year Plan - Instrumental
*See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Education (B.Mus.Ed.) degree with major in Music, K-12 Certification
1. University Core Curriculum - 46 hours
The Arts elective is covered by MUS 1203 and the Social Science elective is covered by ED 2143 in the program requirements. The Philosophy elective is not required for this program.
2. Other Required Courses - 3 hours
Approved First Aid/CPR Course (age appropriate) before Internship
3. Professional Education - 25 hours
ED 2143 Learning Theories and Development Psychology
ED 2713 Differentiated Learning
ED 3113 Framework for Teaching - Secondary Education
4. Music Teaching Field - 46-47 hours
MUS 1203 Liberal Arts Foundations for the Musician
MUS 3101* Survey of Instruments
MUS 3313 Public School Music Methods, K-6
MUS 4103* Music Arranging with MIDI
MUS 4113 Harmonic Form and Analysis
MUS 4573 Public School Music Methods, 7-12
MUS 4900 Senior Recital (half recital)
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
One of the following:
MUS 1731 Music and Theatre Scenes
MUS 1732 Music Theatre Production
5. One of the following Emphases - 11 hours
Voice:
Applied Voice Option A or B:
A. MUS 1981* Applied Voice: 4 hours
MUS 3981* Applied Voice: 3 hours
MUS 1980/3980 Studio Class in Voice (each semester of Applied Voice)
MUS 1931/41*, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
B. MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice: 1 hour
MUS 1981* Applied Voice: 3 hours
MUS 3981* Applied Voice: 3 hours
MUS 1980/3980 Studio Class in Voice (each semester of Applied Voice)
MUS 1931/41*, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
Piano:
MUS 1991* Applied Piano: 4 hours
MUS 3991* Applied Piano: 2 hours
MUS 1990/3990 Studio Class in Piano (each semester of Applied Piano)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
Organ:
MUS 1971* Applied Organ: 4 hours
MUS 3971* Applied Organ: 3 hours
MUS 1990/3990 Studio Class in Piano (each semester of Applied Organ)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
*See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Worship Arts
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by MUS 1203 in the program requirements.
2. Courses specified by this Department - 18 hours
MUS 1203 Liberal Arts Foundations for the Musician
MUS 4103* Music Arranging with MIDI
3. One of the following Emphases - 13 hours
Voice
MUS 1981* Applied Voice: 4 hours
MUS 1980 Studio Class in Voice: 4 semesters
MUS 1931/41, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
MUS 3131 Introduction to Commercial Voice Techniques
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Piano
MUS 1991* Applied Piano: 4 hours
MUS 1990 Studio Class in Piano: 4 semesters
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
One additional applied hour in either Voice, Piano, or Instrument*
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Organ
MUS 1971* Applied Organ: 4 hours
MUS 1990 Studio Class in Piano: 4 semesters
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice and 1 hour of Applied Voice (or 2 hours of Applied Voice*)
MUS 3151 Functional Keyboard Skills I
MUS 3161 Functional Keyboard Skills II
One additional applied hour in either Voice, Piano, or Instrument*
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Instrumental Music (as applied instructors are available)
MUS 1891* Applied Instrument: 4 hours
MUS 1890 Studio Class in Instrumental Music: 4 semesters (as needed and available)
MUS 1931/41, 2931/41* Class Piano I-IV (see other options in Piano Proficiency)
MUS 1951 Class Lessons in Voice (or 1 hour of Applied Voice*)
Ensemble participation: 4 hours (see Ensemble participation requirements)
3a. Successful completion of the Upper-Division Applied Admittance Exam in the applied emphasis
4. Worship Arts Core - 34-35 hours
BBL 3363 History of the Christian Church I
BBL 3373 History of the Christian Church II
MUS 2503 Worship Arts I: Orientation
MUS 2513 Worship Arts II: Materials and Methods
MUS 3101 Survey of Instruments
MUS 3232 Contemporary Worship Music in Theory and Practice
MUS 3323 Children's Music Ministry Methods
MUS 3501 Writing for the Church
MUS 36_1 Music Practicum (as advised)
MUS 4191* Senior Presentation Preparation
MUS 4550 Internship in Worship Arts
MUS 4920* Senior Presentation in Worship Arts
One of the following:
MUS 1731 Music and Theatre Scenes
MUS 1732 Music Theatre Production
One of the following:
5. Electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
View 4-Year Plan - Piano-Organ
View 4-Year Plan - Instrumental
*See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for minor in Music
The student must successfully complete a total of 18 semester hours comprising work in the classroom, ensemble participation, and private instruction in applied music (either private or class)-voice, piano, organ, or other approved instrument.
Required Courses - 12 hours
MUS 1000 Recital Attendance: 2 semesters
MUS 1203 Liberal Arts Foundations for the Musician
Applied Music Instruction*: 4 hours (either private or class)
Ensemble participation: 1 hour (see Ensemble participation requirements)
Six hours from the following:
MUS 3101 Survey of Instruments
MUS 3323 Children's Music Ministry Methods
MUS 4273 Organ Literature and Pedagogy
Please note required prerequisites for each course as specified in the course descriptions.
* See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for minor in Worship Arts
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
MUS 1000 Recital Attendance: 2 semesters
MUS 2503 Worship Arts I: Orientation
MUS 2513 Worship Arts II: Materials and Methods
MUS 3101 Survey of Instruments
MUS 3501 Writing for the Church
Choose one option:
A. Voice or Piano:
Piano Instruction-2 hours from MUS 1931*/41*/91* (Class or Applied)
Vocal Instruction-2 hours from MUS 1951/81* (Class or Applied)
One additional hour in either Voice, Piano, or Instrument*
B. Instrument:
Instrument Instruction-2 hours from MUS 1891* (Applied)
Piano Instruction-2 hours from MUS 1931*/41*/91* (Class or Applied)
Vocal Instruction-1 hour from MUS 1951/81* (Class or Applied)
* See Music Fee Schedule
Requirements for minor in Theatre
The student must complete a minimum of 18 hours.
Required courses - 9 hours
THE 4483 Selected Topics in Theatre Studies
Nine hours from the following:
THE 1112 Freshman Theatre Workshop
THE 2121/22 Practicum in Theatre Production
THE 3113 Theatre Workshop (may be repeated for credit)
MUS 1731, 3731 Music and Theatre Scenes (may be repeated for credit)
MUS 1732, 3732 Music Theatre Production (may be repeated for credit)
DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL ARTS
(SYMBOL: ART)
The mission of the John Brown University Department of Visual Arts is to equip students with the intellectual and practical abilities required of a visual communication professional. These abilities are equally conceptual and technical.
This is a field that involves the Head, Heart, and Hand. The Department of Visual Arts strives to give students an equal emphasis on concept and technique with an overarching set of values that integrates it all.
In each of our majors the ability to think creatively and solve problems in innovative ways is a critical skill to develop. Visual artists must be thinkers, not simply decorators. On the other hand, successful careers are not possible for students who have great ideas but have not learned the critical techniques for making those ideas reality. Visual artists must also have skills in their chosen media.
Student Learning Outcomes:
While specific skill sets vary from one media to the next, there are four common student learning outcomes:
1. Students will demonstrate the ability to generate creative, innovative, problem-solving ideas.
2. Students will demonstrate the ability to practice their media at a high level.
3. Students will understand the professional practices in their field.
4. Students will prepare a body of work that demonstrates their ability to think and create.
The Department of Visual Arts offers the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with majors in Art and Illustration, Digital Cinema, Graphic Design, and Photography and minors are available in all four areas.
All major programs require a common Visual Arts core of 15 hours and an additional 36 hours in the specialized field.
The Department of Visual Arts is housed in two state-of-the-art buildings featuring the latest equipment in two MAC labs, theatre-style classroom, painting and drawing classrooms, graphic design classrooms, photography studios, screenprinting/printmaking studio, two traditional darkrooms and digital darkroom. Visual Arts also has two busy art galleries that feature monthly exhibits, including an annual show of "Student Works."
All of the Visual Arts degrees are highly demanding of student time, energy, and talent. The goal of these multifaceted programs is to graduate industry-ready professionals who are prepared to step into positions which demand diverse proficiencies. All students participate in either an internship or senior project and prepare a portfolio to further aid them in their professional development. Our students are strongly encouraged to participate in foreign study and mission opportunities as a way to broaden their understanding of our world and to enrich their Christian worldview.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Art and Illustration
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by either ART 2153, ART 2163, ART 2233, or ART 2343 in the program requirements.
2. Visual Arts Department Core - 9 hours
One of the following:
ART 2153 European Arts and Culture
ART 2163 Irish Arts and Culture
3. Art and Illustration Core - 24 hours
ART 1403 Introduction to Imaging
4. One of the following tracks - 18 hours:
Illustration Concentration
ART 4103 Portfolio and Presentation
One of the following:
ART 3413 Comic Book and Sequential Art
ART 3443 2D Animation for Illustrators
Six hours from the following:
ART 3353 Studio Art: Selected Topics
ART 3643 Introduction to Printmaking
Fine Art Concentration
Nine hours from the following:
ART 3353 Studio Art: Selected Topics
ART 3643 Introduction to Printmaking
5. Minor field or electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
View 4-Year Plan - Illustration
Requirements for minor in Art and Illustration
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
One of the following
Six hours from the following:
ART 3353 Studio Art: Selected Topics
ART 3413 Comic Book and Sequential Art
ART 3443 2D Animation for Illustrators
ART 3643 Introduction to Printmaking
At least three hours must be upper-division course work.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Digital Cinema
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by either ART 2153, ART 2163, ART 2233, or ART 2343 in the program requirements.
2. Visual Arts Department Core - 9 hours
One of the following:
ART 2153 European Arts and Culture
ART 2163 Irish Arts and Culture
3. Digital Cinema Major - 42 hours
ART 1413 Photo 1: Introduction to Photography
ART 2103 Foundations of Digital Editing
ART 2113 Introduction to Cinema
ART 3403 Film Theory and Criticism
ART 4163 Non-Fiction Film Production
ART 4173 Narrative Film Production
ART 4420 Visual Arts Internship
ART 4973 Senior Cinema Project I
ART 4983 Senior Cinema Project II
Six hours from the following:
ART 3153 Photo 3: Digital Darkroom
ART 3583 Cinematic Audio Production
4. Minor field or electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Requirements for minor in Digital Cinema
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
ART 2103 Foundations of Digital Editing
ART 2113 Introduction to Cinema
ART 3403 Film Theory and Criticism
ART 4163 Non-fiction Film Production
ART 4173 Narrative Film Production
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Graphic Design
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by either ART 2153, ART 2163, ART 2233, or ART 2343 in the program requirements.
2. Visual Arts Department Core - 9 hours
Two of the following:
ART 2153 European Arts and Culture
ART 2163 Irish Arts and Culture
3. Graphic Design Core - 42 hours
ART 1403 Introduction to Imaging
ART 3203 History of Advertising and Design
ART 4103 Portfolio and Presentation
Nine hours from the following:
ART 3283 Graphic Design in Social Context
ART 3333 Interactive Design II
ART 3443 2D Animation for Illustrators
ART 3643 Introduction to Printmaking
4. Minor field or electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Requirements for minor in Graphic Design
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
ART 3203 History of Advertising and Design
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Photography
1. University Core Curriculum - 52 hours
The Arts elective is covered by either ART 2153, ART 2163, ART 2233, or ART 2343 in the program requirements.
2. Visual Arts Department Core - 9 hours
One of the following:
ART 2153 European Arts and Culture
ART 2163 Irish Arts and Culture
3. Photography Core - 42 hours
ART 1413 Photo 1: Introduction to Photography
ART 2413 Photo 2: Intermediate Photography
ART 2463 Photo 3: Traditional Darkroom
ART 3153 Photo 4: Digital Darkroom
ART 3473 Photo 5: Lighting for Photography
ART 3563 Photo 6: History of Photography
ART 4103 Portfolio and Presentation
ART 4183 Social Documentary Photography
ART 4353 Commercial Studio Photography
ART 4420 Visual Arts Internship
Nine hours from the following:
ART 3203 History of Advertising and Design
ART 3553 Social Documentary Photography Abroad
ART 4963 Senior Comprehensive Project
4. Minor field or electives as necessary to complete minimum total hours
Minimum total semester hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Requirements for Minor in Photography
The student must successfully complete a minimum of 21 hours.
ART 1413 Photo 1: Introduction to Photography
ART 4183 Social Documentary Photography
ART 4353 Commercial Studio Photography
Six hours from the following:
ART 2463 Photo 3: Traditional Darkroom
ART 3153 Photo 4: Digital Darkroom
ART 3473 Photo 5: Lighting for Photography
ART 3563 Photo 6: History of Photography
Available to a limited number of students with priority going to students majoring in Journalism and Public Relations.