Overview of Program
The Master of Music in Music Education degree is a 30-credit graduate program designed specifically for current school ensemble directors who want to continue working while obtaining their degree. Teachers will utilize their classrooms as experimental laboratories while they master best practices, broaden their pedagogy, and grow as artists themselves. Students will meet for three-week on-campus sessions in June, then complete their coursework online throughout the school year.
Mission
In support of the mission of the music department, the Master of Music Education trains secondary music education teachers to be more effective in their teaching.
Goals
- Increase abilities to direct ensembles in secondary schools.
- Increase understanding of music through analysis, and performance, including historical and societal implications.
- Increase classroom management skills as they relate to music.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students entering the master’s program will be expected to have achieved the prerequisite NASM and SUU undergraduate learning outcomes, and the additional learning outcomes below:
Performance and Musicianship
- expanded skills in conducting
- expanded skills in rehearsal techniques
History and Theory
- knowledge of music history on par with graduate-level national standards
- knowledge of music theory on par with graduate-level national standards
- knowledge of ensemble literature on par with graduate-level national standards
Teaching
- the ability to develop innovative curriculum
- innovative teaching methodologies
Admission and Graduation Requirements
Prospective students will need to be currently employed as a music teacher in a school setting. Because the practicum assignments require students to try techniques with their own classes as the lab setting, the requirement of having a teaching position is of the utmost importance. Students will be admitted into the program for summer session to facilitate timely completion of the degree.
Admission Materials
When applying for the program, prospective students will need to provide:
- Successful admission to Graduate School at SUU;
- Bachelor’s degree in Music w/Certification (transcripts to demonstrate);
- Proof of current teaching position (three [3] letters of recommendation, at least one [1] from administration); and
- Resume and written statement of purpose.
Application Assessment
Applicants will be reviewed and approved for admission by the Music Education Committee.
Program Information
- Graduate students must complete their program within six (6) years of matriculation.
- All courses must be passed with a “C-” (1.7) or better to be counted in the program.
- Students must earn a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 to graduate.
- The Master of Music Education is designed for music educators currently employed in secondary music programs. It allows educators to keep their current positions and earn this degree in three (3) summer sessions and four (4) semesters of online courses.
Program Requirements