The fourth edition of “Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians and Writers” highlights the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Department of Music, one of only two in the state to receive the designation.

The guide is aimed at college-bound creative students to provide information and resources for programs that fit their needs.

Author Elaina Loveland said she researched programs from across the country and ultimately selected more than 250 art, drama, dance, music, and creative writing programs in arts conservatories and liberal arts colleges and universities to recommend to potential students.

Loveland is also the author of “Creative Careers: Paths for Aspiring Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians and Writers.”

Essays that discuss every aspect of the college music major from how to select a program, applying for scholarships, and sample curricula are included, along with such information as geographic location and number of faculty.

UALR offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in several music-related concentrations, including applied music, music history, music theory, and music education (vocal emphasis).

There is an audition requirement and scholarships available, as highlighted in the guidebook.

The guidebook also highlights department activities including opera workshops, concert choirs, a gospel chorale, community orchestra, wind, percussion and guitar ensembles, jazz combos, and many more.