Develop the skills you need to direct music training in a variety of settings and apply advanced teaching theories and strategies to music education.
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Program Details
Next Start Date: 1/15/2025
Course Length: 8 Weeks
Estimated Length: 2 Years
Master of Music – Music Education Overview
The Master of Music in Music Education from Campbellsville University will empower you and allow you to explore advanced teaching theories, music education strategies, specialized instruction and the communicative nature of music. The program was designed by experienced music and education faculty members. Upon graduation, you will understand music as a communicative art, its value to others and how to offer instruction in musical skills.
The master’s in music education online program provides an examination and analysis of the musical styles throughout all eras, as well as composers and how music will be studied and discussed within the classroom. You’ll explore music through the Baroque and Classical periods, the 19th century and after 1900. You will examine the historical and philosophical foundations of music education and the various methodologies utilized in music education today. Additionally, the program covers music technology, the psychology of music, contemporary issues in music education and global perspectives related to music education and learning.
You will also be able to choose between a thesis track and a capstone project track. The capstone project courses include an action-based research project that may involve case studies, program evaluations or leadership projects.
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Our online music education degree program is also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The fully online degree offers the flexibility and convenience of being able to complete coursework when it best fits your schedule. In addition, the program’s faculty members have real-world experience in the field of music education.
“As a three-time graduate from Campbellsville University, having been both a traditional and online student, I can say the fully-online program was good and life-changing. I would highly recommend CU Online for anyone wanting to find their calling in life.”
– Joe Milazzo
Course Map
The online Master of Music in Music Education degree is primarily intended for certified music educators having a Rank III teaching certificate, who are required, if teaching in the State of Kentucky, to attain the Master’s level (Rank II) certification. The degree can also assist non-certified musicians who have a bachelor’s degree to prepare for further studies in doctoral programs and college-level teaching. This degree does not certify individuals for public school teaching in the elementary or secondary schools unless Rank III certification was previously earned.
The music education degree online program takes about two years to complete and includes 32 credit hours. You will choose two music eras to study, as well as a thesis track or capstone project track. Students must choose between either the Thesis Track or Capstone Project Track.
- MUS 502: Analytical Techniques I
- MUS 544: Methods of Research in Music
- MUS 602: Analytical Techniques II
Choose two from the following:
- MUS 516: Medieval Music
- MUS 517: Renaissance Music
- MUS 519: Music in the Baroque Period
- MUS 520: Music in the Classical Period
- MUS 521: Music in the 19th Century
- MUS 522: Music Since 1900
Take all of the following courses:
- MUS 508: Music Technology
- MUS 509: Music Entrepreneurship
- MUS 573: Foundations of Music Education
- MUS 574: Music Teaching and Learning: A Global Perspective
- MUS 640: Psychology of Music
- MUS 649: Contemporary Issues in Music Education
Choose one of the following tracks:
Thesis Track
- MUS 641: Thesis I
- MUS 642: Thesis II
Research Project Track
- MUS 673: Capstone Project I: Music Education
- MUS 674: Capstone Project II: Music Education
Admissions Requirements
In order to apply to Campbellsville University’s accredited master’s music education online program, prospective students must submit or complete the following:
- Complete the online application
- All official college transcripts from each college or university previously attended and currently attended, with a complete record of all courses attempted from each college or university attended, confirming a minimum 2.75 GPA
- Bachelor’s degree in music or permission from the Graduate Music Admissions Committee (a music education teaching certificate is not required)
- Two letters of recommendation, including one from an individual who can speak to the applicant’s academic and/or professional capabilities or potential
- Essay discussing the applicant’s interest in and commitment to graduate study
- Must pass an entrance examination in music theory, music history and literature and take appropriate steps to remediate any deficiencies.
- Submit teacher licensure exam scores (if applicable) and a copy of the teaching certificate (if applicable).
- Kentucky residents planning to complete his or her Rank II certification must submit passing PRAXIS scores, a copy of teaching certificate and a disposition form (provided by the School of Education)
*Some additional requirements will be requested upon acceptance into the program.
Costs & Financial Aid
The music education degree online costs $432 per credit hour. In order to help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
Students wishing to transfer their credits from an associate degree can easily do so through Campbellsville University’s Transfer Scholarship.
Campbellsville University is a military-friendly school and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Music Education
As a graduate of our master’s in music education online program, you can become a music teacher. Music teachers earn a median salary of $40,943 per year, according to PayScale. Wages may vary depending on the experience, location and the institution.
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the wellrounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Yes, you can. CU honors your educational journey with a generous transfer credit policy that empowers you to make the most of your earned credits. Upon your admission to Campbellsville University, we'll complete a transfer credit evaluation to find out how many of your credits will apply toward your degree. For more information, visit our transfer students page.
- Yes. Your first step is to complete the FAFSA form, and then we will determine your eligibility for any financial aid. Our school code is 001959. Visit our financial aid page to learn more about your options, which include scholarships and grants.
- You can apply to our 100% online degree programs through the online application form. Remember to submit official copies of your high school and/or college transcripts, along with any other required documentation that is specific to your degree program. You can visit the admissions process page to learn more about what to expect throughout the process.