Music Education
About Us
The Music Education program at the University of Louisville equips aspiring music educators with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed for success in teaching. Combining rigorous coursework in music theory, history, and performance with extensive pedagogical training, the program prepares students to teach music to diverse student populations across a variety of P-12 educational settings. Guided by dedicated faculty, the program emphasizes strong musicianship, leadership development, and adaptability, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to foster a lifelong love of music in their students. The program includes a strong emphasis on field experience placements in local P-12 schools and related agencies, providing students with opportunities to hone their teaching skills in practical settings.
Academics
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
The Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree at the University of Louisville is a professional degree designed for students aiming to develop the knowledge, skills, and experiences need to qualify for initial teacher certification for P-12 music teaching in Kentucky. With tracks in four areas of emphasis - strings, vocal, keyboard, and brass/woodwinds/percussion - the program provides a comprehensive core of music and pedagogical training to prepare students for diverse instructional settings and student needs. Graduates will be qualified for initial teacher certification in Kentucky, and the program meets licensure or certification requirements for 45 other states. Most BME graduates secure K-12 teaching positions within three months of graduation, while others pursue graduate school or advanced music studies, equipped with strong musicianship and leadership skills.
Learn more about degree requirements and classes.
Bachelor of Music in Music Education - Pre-Certification
The Bachelor of Music in Music Education (Pre-Certification) degree is designed for students intending to enroll in the Master of Arts in Teaching program (MAT). This degree, paired with the MAT, allows students to graduate with both an undergraduate and graduate degree in five years. The requirements of the BME (Pre-Certification) degree mirror those of the traditional BME, with the exception of the culminating undergraduate experience. Rather than student teach at the end of the degree, students complete an independent capstone project. Therefore, this degree alone does not qualify graduates for initial teacher certification.
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Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Music Education is a graduate program designed for individuals seeking to earn both teaching certification and a master's degree. Geared toward those who already hold an undergraduate degree in music, the MAT program offers an intensive curriculum that combines advanced coursework in music education, research methods, and pedagogical studies with hands-on clinical experiences in local P-12 music classrooms. Students in the program work closely with experienced faculty and mentor teachers, gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as innovative, reflective music educators. This degree requires two semesters of student teaching, one each in an elementary and secondary placement. Graduates are qualified for initial teacher certification in Kentucky and are well-equipped to lead diverse, inclusive music programs in K-12 schools.
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Note: The MAT is offered through a partnership between the School of Music and the College of Education and Human Development. Music scholarships awarded for undergraduate studies are not extended for this degree.
Master of Music in Music Education
The Master of Music in Music Education is an advanced degree program tailored for current music educators seeking to deepen their expertise and expand their impact in the field, as well as for those wishing to continue music education studies at the doctoral level. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes coursework in music pedagogy, research methods, and complimentary studies in music history and theory. Designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals with in-person evening classes, the MME emphasizes both academic rigor and practical application, enabling students to refine their teaching practices and lead innovative music programs in their schools and communities. Students who are enrolled in the program with full-time status may qualify for graduate assistantships or other financial support.
Learn more about degree requirements and classes.
