The Music Program has a faculty of incredibly talented musical artists recognized throughout the nation and abroad for their expertise in chamber music, vocal and choral music, percussion, piano, clarinet and saxophone, and much more. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), Music at SOU provides students with individual attention and provides excellent instruction in small classes and private lessons. Music faculty foster a student-centered environment where students perform, conduct creative activity, pursue research and scholarship, and experience teaching opportunities. The curriculum encompasses an integrated course of study designed to teach the varied skills necessary for a professional career in music, and to develop the student’s understanding and appreciation for the art of music. The Music building is the home of SOU's Music Recital Hall, which has been called one of the best concert halls in the Pacific Northwest and used by professional musicians students locally and from throughout the world.

The Theatre Arts program is unique on the West Coast because it is focused entirely on undergraduate students. As a result, students experience close working relationships with faculty who are specialists in every aspect of theatrical study. The process of gaining theatrical skills and building portfolios comes from hands-on experience staging productions in two theatres every term. Theatre majors reap the benefits of the University's close proximity to the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF). The Theatre Arts program employs OSF actors, directors, and designers as guest artists and adjunct faculty, so students work directly with professionals in their field. In addition, qualified students can get their foot in the door through a variety of internships at local theatres. Designated a Center of Excellence in the Fine and Performing Arts by the Oregon University System (OUS), Southern Oregon University is the longest-standing OUS institution to offer the preprofessional Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in theatre.