Music education builds more than just an appreciation for the arts: Studies show that proper music education can enhance language capabilities, improve memory, and develop better study habits. For music lovers interested in teaching, a music education degree offers the fastest career path for a music teacher or educator in K-12 schools.
Along with rewarding work, music education offers competitive salary levels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that music directors and composers earn an annual median salary of $51,670, while art, drama, and music teachers earn an annual median wage of $69,530.
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Master's in Music Education: Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with a music education degree?
A music education degree prepares graduates for careers including middle or high school music teacher, band director, music director, and community college instructor.
Is a music education degree worth it?
A music education degree offers varied career opportunities and enables graduates to earn a living related to music, making the degree a practical choice for many musicians.
Are music teachers in demand?
The BLS projects jobs for middle and high school teachers to increase 4% from 2019-2029, keeping pace with the national average.
Can you get a music degree online?
Many colleges offer online music education degrees. Although, candidates may need to complete teaching and other experiential learning opportunities in person at K-12 schools.
Why Get a Degree in Music Education?
A music education degree helps build advanced knowledge in music pedagogy, preparing graduates to teach music and lead school bands at the K-12 level. While not required to teach at K-12 schools, a master's degree in music education can help teachers stand out for more competitive jobs with higher salary potential.
Many colleges offer online music education degrees, which give students the flexibility to maintain their current career while pursuing an advanced education. These programs commonly combine online courses with in-person teaching and other experiential learning opportunities. Online programs may also offer more affordable tuition rates.
How Much Does a Music Education Degree Cost?
As with any graduate program, the cost of a music education degree varies among schools and programs. However, the average U.S. student pays around $30,000-$40,000 for a master's degree. Tuition rates at private colleges generally run much higher than public colleges, but some schools offer online learners discounted tuition rates. Public schools may also offer a reduced in-state tuition rate to online students regardless of residency.
An online music education degree can help learners avoid common expenses associated with college. Online learners may even eliminate or greatly reduce expenses like relocation, transportation, parking, and childcare. The most flexible online programs also enable students to maintain full-time employment while earning a degree, which greatly affects budgeting for higher education.
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How Much Do Music Education Majors Make?
Music education commonly prepares graduates for careers in K-12 education.The BLS reports that middle school teachers earn a $59,660 annual median salary, while high school teachers earn an annual median salary of $61,660. However, earning a master's may increase average salary levels, as many schools pay higher wages to teachers with advanced degrees. Teachers can also obtain professional certifications to increase their career prospects and salary potential.
While most music education graduates pursue careers as K-12 teachers or band directors, they may also find work as postsecondary teachers instructing music courses at community colleges. The BLS reports teachers at junior colleges earn an annual median salary between $61,430-$82,850. Other possible career paths include music director, earning an annual median salary of $51,670, and music performer or singer.
Courses in Music Education
A master's degree in music education emphasizes music history, pedagogical approaches to music education, and the use of research to inform teaching practice. Most music education degrees include a significant experiential component enabling students to apply program learning to teaching practice in a professional education environment. Many programs also include a culminating requirement such as a capstone or thesis, which requires students to research and address an issue in contemporary music education.
This list highlights three common courses found in music education degrees. While exact course titles and content may vary, these topics typically appear in music education curriculum models.
History and Philosophy of Music Education
Music education dates back to ancient Greece, and this course encourages students to examine the historical role and function of music in general education practice. Students receive an overview of the history of music education, exploring the philosophical and pedagogical foundations that inform the field.Music Education Research
Research plays an important role in the development, practice, and assessment of music education programs. This course introduces students to research methods and strategies for assessing research literature. Students can also explore research design techniques and methods in application to action research studies, capstone projects, or thesis projects.Psychology and Sociology in Music Education
This course highlights the social and psychological principles of human interactions with music and music education. Students explore various modes of interaction with music, including performance, composition, listening, and teaching. The course may also explore broad psychological and sociological concepts related to classroom teaching, such as group dynamics.
Certifications and Licensure for Music Education
Professional licensure and certifications demonstrate widely applicable proficiencies and competencies in the music education field. Many positions require these credentials, particularly for teaching. Other certifications help music educators pursue more advanced positions or earn higher salary levels. This list highlights two popular certifications along with a certificate for music education professionals.
Serving music teachers nationwide, MTNA offers certification credentials for teaching performance in areas including piano, violin, flute, and voice. Certification applicants teaching at the K-12 level submit a series of five projects related to their teaching philosophy, education assessment skills, teaching practice, studio ethics, and teaching environment.
All U.S states require teachers to hold state certification to teach music at public K-12 schools. Certification requirements vary among states, but all teachers must hold at least a bachelor's degree. Many states offer a general K-12 music education credential, though some require specific certifications to teach vocal or instrumental music.
The Boston Conservatory at Berklee offers a specialized graduate certificate in music education and autism, training music teachers to work with special needs students. The certificate focuses on teaching strategies with a background in autism and special needs-related studies.
Scholarships for Music Education
Scholarships offer financial support for college that never requires repayment, making them one of the most popular financial aid options. Some scholarships serve applicants pursuing a specific career path, while others serve students of specific backgrounds. This list highlights three popular scholarships for online music education degree candidates.
Music Education Scholarships
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Dr. Robert Hawkins Memorial Scholarship |
$2,000 |
The John Philip Sousa Foundation offers this scholarship to students pursuing a degree in instrumental/band music education and planning to become band directors after graduation. |
Great Value Colleges Music Scholarship for Black Students |
$5,000 |
Great Value Colleges offers this scholarship to Black students pursuing music programs at the undergraduate or graduate level. Applicants must submit a short written or video essay. |
Against the Grain Artistic Scholarships |
$1,000 |
Against the Grain Productions offers this scholarship to Asian or Pacific Islander students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in the arts (including music). |
Online Master's in Music Education Programs 2022
#1 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Along with in-person options, the school delivers master's programs for online learners.
The online master's degree in music education is one of the best online music education degrees. Learners currently employed in the music education field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
Enrollees pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
University of Florida Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 92%
Students Receiving Loans: 22%
Total Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Master's Programs: 126
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University educates distance learners through accessible, high-quality online graduate programs. In addition to educating students at its campus, the public institution enrolls students in 67 online programs. Degree-seekers at the school choose from master's programs in many fields, including an MS in music education. Students can pursue the online music education program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier.
During the music education master's program, distance learners take graduate-level classes. Students can select field-specific electives and complete practical learning experiences to prepare for industry roles. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete. Prospective applicants should reach out to the program to learn more about admission standards and deadlines.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $8,912 for in-state students and $21,393 for out-of-state learners. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. A total of 90% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners can enroll at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to pursue a master's in music education. While many of the institution's students pursue their degree on campus, 10,282 enrollees attend online classes. Online programs' scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
The master of music in music education program's rigorous curriculum helps degree-seekers develop transferable career skills while gaining advanced knowledge in music education. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select courses based on their professional goals. Learners in the online program develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. After earning the master's degree, graduates often secure advanced music education roles. The institution offers career services to help students and alumni succeed in the workforce.
Graduate-level learners can access support services including career advising, online tutoring, and financial aid counseling. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. They may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at East Carolina University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including music education. Of the public institution's students, 13,890 attend classes in an online format, while others study in person at the Greenville campus. Learners can choose online learning to access flexible scheduling options that make earning a degree easier.
The master of music program offers a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-focused skills and knowledge. Students can customize the curriculum through experiential learning opportunities and electives. Learners in the flexible online program gain specialized knowledge relevant to the industry. Graduates of the music education program often land competitive roles in their field. Master's students can use the institution's career services to develop a plan for achieving their professional goals after graduation.
In addition to online support services and career advising, the school offers financial aid counseling. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
Georgia College and State University
- Milledgeville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Milledgeville, Georgia College and State University is a public school. The music education program offers a rigorous, accredited curriculum taught by experts. Prospective students can use entrance scores to bolster their application. Distance learners work with advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff at the school. The online programs maintain a high academic standard by connecting students and faculty in virtual learning environments.
According to the school, 96% of learners receive financial aid and 42% take out loans. While completing their master's program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to impress employers.
Georgia College and State University at a Glance:
Enrolled Online Learners: 2,007
Online Master's Options: 18
Tuition for Graduate Students: $5,292 in-state; $18,846 out-of-state
Average Aid Per Learner: $7,671
Average Price After Aid: $20,823
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from Texas Tech University. In addition to on-campus options, the school offers master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
Degree-seekers interested in music education can enroll in the online master of music program. After earning the master's degree in music education, graduates can launch a new career in the field. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
Texas Tech University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 78%
Students Receiving Loans: 42%
Total Master's Programs: 83
Total Online Master's Programs: 83
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
University of Northern Iowa
- Cedar Falls, IA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A master's degree from the University of Northern Iowa can lead to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. This school offers online and on-campus master's degree options. Students often save on transportation, childcare, and related expenses by choosing an online program. The master's in music education curriculum consists of video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
Graduate students often use financial aid, including scholarships and loans, to cover their costs. All applicants submit school transcripts.
University of Northern Iowa at a Glance:
Enrolled Online Students: 2,732
Online Master's Degrees: 14
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $9,159 in-state; $21,375 out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,848
Average Price With Financial Aid: $15,760
The University of Northern Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
Northern State University
- Aberdeen, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Northern State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The public institution delivers an online master's degree in music education. After earning the master's in music education, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises.
Master's students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues and prepare to enter the music education field. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to oversee teams in music education settings.
The school also prioritizes affordability. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible.
Northern State University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 8
Total Online Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 1,958
Graduate Tuition In-State: $5,939
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $11,088
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Southern Utah University offers an e-learning music education program. The school reports that 2,724 students take online classes. The institution's online offerings include a master of music education. The accredited program provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for music education careers. The institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from instructors.
Students can learn more about online support services at the school's website. The institution charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. Students can expect a graduation rate of 50% at the school.
Southern Utah University Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,951
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 9
Graduate Tuition: $7,574/year in-state; $23,784/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,951
Average Net Price: $14,879
The school holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Online Master’s In Music Education Programs
University at Buffalo
- Buffalo, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University at Buffalo enrolls students in an online music education program. The institution, located in New York, reports that 6,605 students take online classes. Online learners can earn their master's in music education at the college. The accredited curriculum ensures that students receive a rigorous education employers value. The degree emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills for music education careers. The institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. Students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for graduate students on a budget. The college has a graduation rate of 75% for its programs.
University at Buffalo at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 7,874
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 4
Graduate Tuition: $11,310/year in-state; $23,100/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,560
Average Net Price: $17,264
The University at Buffalo holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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