M. A. in Music Education
This distinctive degree program is designed for practicing music educators seeking graduate study that combines theory and practice. Emphasis is placed on musical artistry and teaching style, together with developing students’ research skills. Students take core courses and choose one of the following concentrations:
Each concentration addresses the needs of music educators. Instructors are nationally recognized practitioners in the respective areas of concentration.
Admission deadlines:
-
April 1 for Summer Term
-
July 1 for Fall Term
-
December 1 for Spring Term
-
Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Program Structure
The Master of Arts in Music Education curriculum requires 33 semester hours and consists of three elements:
-
Core courses cover teaching and learning, foundations of music education, musicianship and ensemble, perspectives in music theory, and music education research methods;
-
A specialized field of concentration offers opportunities to develop specific skills; and
-
A master's thesis or final project allows students to conduct applied research in music education.
Core Courses
Core courses provide opportunities for students to place their specific skills within a broader musical and educational context. Areas of study include:
-
An introduction to scholarship and research methods in music education (GMUS 600);
-
An examination of conditions that affect the learning process and ways they can be mediated to influence student development (GMUS 601);
-
Asurvey of ideas, forces, philosophies, and values that have shaped American music education (GMUS 608);
-
An examination and application of traditional and contemporary music theory scholarship (GMUS 611);
-
In-depth consideration of music history, literature, and theory devoted to a particular historical period (GMUS 612);
-
Systematic study of applied musicianship skills in tonic solfa and choral ensemble (GMUS 750); and the
-
Application of music education research to final projects and thesis writing (GMUS 890).
Scheduling
The Master of Arts in Music Education degree program is designed for working music teachers who wish to pursue graduate study without interrupting their professional lives. All courses required for the degree are available during the summer term in an interlocking arrangement of day and evening courses. Field of concentration courses are offered in notations of even- and odd-numbered years. For the convenience of those teachers who live in the Twin Cities' metropolitan area, most core courses are offered also during the fall and spring semesters.
Advising
The program director serves as academic adviser for all students until course work is completed. Degree plans are prepared during the admissions interview.
Accreditation
The University of St. Thomas Music Department is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and the National Association of Schools of Music.
The University of St. Thomas is registered as a private institution with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education pursuant to sections 136A.61 to 136A.71. Registration is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions.
Pay no application fee!
_____________
What Our Students Say
My musicianship, educational philosophy, and teaching strategies were enhanced and altered at GPME. I felt encouraged, challenged, and inspired throughout the program. I found instructors exceptional, course content pertinent, and classmates professionally engaging. GPME at UST is the program for music educators who desire a powerful impact on their teaching and musicianship."
Janet Cruse, M.A. '03
Hillcrest Community School
Bloomington, Minn.
