Teaching students about music is deeper than just sharing the enjoyment of listening, singing, or playing music. This important subject develops coordination, language, memorization, and so much more. And as an educator with a master’s degree in music education, you’ll be ready to help support students on their journey through music.
The Benefits of a Master’s Degree in Music Education
For music teachers and community musicians, a master’s degree in music education can mean the difference between a rewarding career and a limited horizon. With budget cuts, many schools are forced to give up their music programs, narrowing the field of available opportunities for music teachers. But with a master’s degree in music education, you’ll be competitive, potentially securing music educator positions that would otherwise be out of reach. In addition to supporting your career prospects, your master’s degree in music education will allow you to deepen your understanding of music pedagogy, develop new leadership skills, and learn how to connect with students of all ages.
Course Requirements You Can Expect from a Master’s in Music Education
Master’s degree programs in music education typically cater to working teachers, with coursework in music theory and research woven with practical performance and classroom applications. You may also have the opportunity to choose a music specialization, such as piano, composition, musicology, or technology. Often master’s in music education degree programs include courses such as:
- Music Education Research
- Community Music
- Advanced Studies in Teaching Music
- Music Analysis
- Musical Technology
- Music Education Curriculum Development
- Music History
Master’s Degrees in Music Education Programs Available Online
Music teachers are some of the most passionate educators in the world. Choose an online program that is as enthusiastic about music education as you are. Programs to consider include:
- Boston University offers an online master of music in music education that includes a curriculum project, courses in education research and music theory, and electives in subjects such as orchestration and American music. Students can also opt to attend courses on campus during the summer session.
- The University of Florida’s online master of music in music education is designed for active teaching professionals. The program combines an exploration of world music with the roles of technology, assessment and instructional design in music education.
Career Opportunities with a Master’s in Music Education
Graduates with a master’s in music education often work in K-12 settings as music educators, typically music teachers. But other opportunities are available, including music education administration, private school teaching, and community college instruction. In addition to traditional classroom opportunities, music educators with an advanced degree may work as church choir directors, orchestra conductors, or private music instructors. Music teachers often work with organizations including:
- Colleges and universities
- Professional schools
- Junior colleges
- Technical and trade schools
- Performing arts companies
Music teachers typically earn a median annual salary of $62,830, but educators working in higher education will typically earn more, with a mean of $72,610 at colleges and universities, and $74,020 at junior colleges.
