Shippensburg University was founded in 1871, and is a member of     Pennsylvania's     State     System of Higher Education. It is a comprehensive,     regional university of     approximately 6,600 students offering graduate and undergraduate degree programs in     the College of Arts and Sciences, the John     L. Grove College of Business, the College of     Education and Human Services,     and the School of Graduate Studies. The university has     360 faculty, 86 percent hold doctorates or terminal degrees.

    The university is conveniently located in the Cumberland Valley of south central Pennsylvania, approximately three hours from Philadelphia, two hours from Washington, D. C., and one hour from Harrisburg. The beautiful 200-acre campus blends traditional and modern architecture, providing students with a comfortable and progressive environment. The emphasis on academic excellence has helped graduates to be recruited by businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions. Small classes and a friendly campus make it easy to make friends, get involved, and receive the most from your university education. U. S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" consistently ranks Shippensburg University among the best regional public universities in the North.

Since music pervades society, the Department of Music seeks to increase students' awareness of the musical world and influence their cultural lives through critical listening and active participation in music making. The music department offers a full range of courses including music theory and music history/literature as well as performing ensembles for every interest. Ensembles include concert choir, Cumbelaires, Madrigal singers, concert band, jazz ensemble, Red Raider Marching Band, brass and woodwind chamber ensembles, and the University-Community Orchestra. Each year, nearly 300 students and faculty members perform for local audiences as well as throughout the United States and abroad. Students representing virtually all degree programs take time out of their busy schedules to participate in Shippensburg's music ensembles for the sheer enjoyment of making music.