Department of Music
Nurturing artistic expression, creativity, and musical excellence through performance, theory, and cultural studies.
About the Head of Department
Rev. Fr. Dr. Jude Orakwe
Rev. Fr. Dr. Jude Orakwe is the current Head of the Department of Music at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. A scholar, priest, and passionate advocate for musical excellence, he brings a wealth of experience in both sacred and contemporary music traditions.
His leadership is marked by a commitment to academic rigor, performance artistry, and holistic student development. Under his guidance, the department continues to flourish in research, creative exploration, and community outreach through music. He upholds the vision of nurturing students to become both culturally aware and professionally equipped musicians.
Department of Music
Established in the 2012/2013 academic session, our department stands today as a vibrant hub of musical excellence, cultural enrichment, and academic innovation at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.
Nestled within our serene campus, we've evolved from a foundational unit into a dynamic and respected academic entity in Nigeria's music education landscape.
History & Evolution
- Formally demerged from Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences in 2012/2013
- Proposal initiated by Mrs. Nkechi Okpala in 2012
- Officially created under Msgr. Prof. J.P.C. Nzomiwu, first Dean of Faculty of Arts
- One of five founding departments in the new faculty
- Initial intake of 24 students (16 graduated in first class of 2015/2016)
- Eight graduating sets with B.A. Music degrees to date
Founding Faculty:
Dr. Mrs. Nkechi Okpala
Proposal Initiator
Prof. C.E. Mbanugo
Founding Member
Dr. Mrs. Stella Nwobu
Founding Member
Growth & Achievements
- Steady growth in faculty strength and student enrollment
- Alumni contributing in government, private sector, and performance
- 2022: First first-class graduate milestone
- Pioneer graduate now serving as Graduate Assistant
- 2015 & 2021: Full NUC Accreditation achieved
- 2019: 3rd place at Campus Classicals Competition
- Annual Noon Music Concert Series (2021-Present)
- Featured in convocations, lectures, and Christmas Carol Festivals
Introduced the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols - now a COOU annual hallmark event.
Leadership Through the Years
Prof. Chukwuemeka Mbanugo
First Head of Department
2012–2018
Dr. Stella Nwobu
Second Head of Department
2018–2024
Fr. Dr. Jude Orakwe
Current Head of Department
2024–Present
Vision & Mission
Vision
To be a first-class centre of musical studies, performance, and research, pursuing academic excellence across all spheres of music learning through cultural, social, and entrepreneurial lenses.
Mission
To provide opportunities for academic and professional development through a blend of theoretical and practical schooling in musical arts, creating socially responsible and professionally equipped graduates.
Philosophy & Core Values
Rooted in humanistic and artistic foundations, we view music as a transformational tool that shapes identity, culture, intellect, and emotional well-being.
Our curriculum embraces the Pythagorean philosophy that music unveils cosmic and scientific truths, integrating it as a universal language for personal and societal development.
Academic Programmes
B.A. Music
Bachelor of Arts in Music
PGD Music
Postgraduate Diploma in Music
M.A. Music
Master of Arts in Music
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- UTME with five O'Level credits including English Language (max two sittings)
- Direct Entry: NCE or OND in Music (starts from 200-level)
Postgraduate Admission
- Bachelor's degree in Music or related discipline
- HND or higher qualifications in Music from recognized institutions
Enriching Experiences
- Studio recording & production access
- Industrial Training placements
- Academic excursions to music companies
- Cultural center visits
- Music outreach programs
- Interdisciplinary collaborations
Looking Ahead
- Hosting Grand Music Festivals
- Engaging in international music fairs
- Creating professional studio projects
- Organizing ecumenical musical outreaches
Where Rhythm Meets Reason
The Department of Music at COOU stands tall as a beacon of creativity, discipline, and scholarly achievement. As we continue to evolve, our unwavering commitment remains to nurture musical talent and produce graduates who will transform the world through the universal power of music.