Exploratory Studies in Fine Arts - Music
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for students who love music and want to explore careers in performance, composition, or music production before committing to a major. It is ideal for aspiring musicians, music educators, or those interested in the music business.
Program Overview
Explore music performance, composition, production, and education in this flexible program. Perfect for students who love music but need time to decide on their ideal career path. For students drawn to performance, composition, or music production, Exploratory Studies in Music provides an introduction to different career paths in the music industry. Through coursework in music theory, history, and applied performance, students gain foundational knowledge while working with experienced faculty and musicians. Whether interested in instrumental or vocal performance, music education, or composition, this track allows students to refine their skills and identify the right major within the field of music.
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What You'll Learn
Not sure what to major in? That’s okay—Exploratory Studies can help.
Our Exploratory Studies programs are designed for incoming freshmen who are still deciding on a major but want to make steady progress toward graduation. As an Exploratory Studies student, you’ll receive personalized academic advising and career support while taking courses that fulfill UK Core requirements and count toward any degree. It’s a smart way to explore your interests without losing time.
Each Exploratory Studies option is tied to a broad academic area, allowing you to try out courses in fields that interest you while gaining insight into potential majors. You’ll work one-on-one with an academic advisor and connect with career counselors at the Stuckert Career Center to explore your strengths, take assessments, and develop a plan that aligns your interests with future goals. You’ll also have opportunities to attend major and career fairs, participate in internships, and explore real-world experiences that help guide your path forward.
Ultimately, these tracks help students to declare a major and achieve a timely graduation in a field that aligns with their future career aspirations.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026

Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.

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Join the Creative Arts Living Learning Program
Live with and learn from other creative-minded students at UK! Plus, gain access to dedicated practice spaces and studios right where you live.

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