Students who study music performance learn about a variety of instruments and performance techniques. Courses may include ear training, musical organization, musicology, music theory, vocal performance, string performance, piano performance, jazz studies, accompaniment skills and rhythm playing.

Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.