Music Education

The Master of Music with concentration in music education makes available for all music students the opportunity to advance their academic and professional abilities requisite for work or further study in the field of music education.

Purpose

The Master of Music with a concentration in music education is a degree that falls within the field of music, rather than the field of education. Students study research in the field of music teaching at all levels and across subject areas, e.g., composing, performing, listening. Graduates are often associated with schools, but also may work with church groups, community bands or choirs, conservatories, universities, etc. The aim is to develop professional and scholarly competence.

Certification

Teaching certification is not a prerequisite for admission to the program, and the program does not provide certification. Certification occurs at the undergraduate level. It may be possible that a student desires to pursue both certification and the master’s concurrently. In such a case, some courses required for certification may also be applicable to the master’s provided such courses are at the 400G level or above. Determinations are made on a case by case basis.

Curriculum, Thesis, Recital, or Practicum

Students of music education study research in the field of music teaching at all levels and across subject areas. The curriculum consists of at least one-third of the credits in the concentration (music education), including evaluating research in the field; one-third in other studies in music such as theory, history, applied study, conducting, etc.; and the remainder electives in supporting areas. The curriculum is in compliance with the National Association of Schools of Music and is fully accredited by NASM.

For many students the degree in music education will be the terminal degree, while others may wish to pursue doctoral studies. Consequently, the program allows students who wish to pursue the doctorate to write a master’s thesis. Other students have the option of a final project, such as developing a curriculum or practicum, which might focus on working with a band toward an adjudicated performance, or preparing a terminal recital. Specifics are established with the assistance of the coordinator for music education, a faculty advisor, and the approval of the concerned faculty.

Learn more about the degree plan and career opportunities.

For further information, contact:

Coordinator of Music Education
Office: 337-482-5220