The Master of Arts with Licensure (MAL) in Music Education at Case Western Reserve University is a distinctive graduate program designed for students who want to earn both a master’s degree in music education and K–12 teacher licensure.
This six-semester program combines advanced study in music teaching and learning with hands-on fieldwork and student teaching, preparing graduates for impactful careers in K–12 schools.
Why Choose the MAL at CWRU?
Where Musicianship and Scholarship Meet Practice
- Balanced Curriculum
A well-rounded program integrating philosophical, research-based, and theoretical approaches to teaching and learning music alongside practical classroom strategies and field experiences. - Dual Credential Option
Earn your master’s degree while completing all requirements for Ohio Multi-Age (K–12) licensure. - Professional Preparation
Graduate ready to teach at every level of school music, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to lead and inspire in diverse educational settings.
Admission
Applicants with strong academic records from fully accredited colleges and universities are encouraged to apply through the School of Graduate Studies.
MAL in Music Education
Applicants must have:
- An undergraduate degree in music (BA or BM)
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- Prior experience working with children
- A successful interview and vocal or instrumental audition
For more information, please refer to the Graduate Applications page.
Program Requirements
MA in Music Education
Each student works closely with a faculty advisor to design a personalized plan of study. All students complete a final written project and oral examination that begins development in the earliest coursework and continues through the program.
- Plan A: Thesis
Students conduct original research, write a thesis (6 credit units), and orally defend the thesis document to the music education faculty. - Plan B: Comprehensive Exam
Students complete a comprehensive written exam (take-home and timed portions) and oral defense by week 10 of the final semester of coursework.
MA for Licensure (MAL)
The MAL program spans six semesters and integrates graduate music education coursework with licensure requirements and student teaching. Students must complete a comprehensive oral exam (Plan B) by week 13 of the final semester of coursework, typically the semester before student teaching.
Additional requirements include:
- Piano proficiency (basic skills and pedagogy requirement)
- Passing the Ohio Assessment for Educators
- Meeting state requirements and passing a criminal background check
- Eligibility to apply for a Multi-Age License in Ohio (transferable to over 40 reciprocating states)
Find detailed program requirements, course distribution, decision points, and outcomes in the General Bulletin.
Teacher Licensure
Teacher licensure programs at Case Western Reserve University are coordinated through Teacher Education in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Students pursuing licensure in music education must follow the Teacher Education Handbook, which outlines:
- Admission and Retention Requirements
Details on GPA minimums, interviews, ePortfolio benchmarks, field experiences, and progression through Decision Points. - Program Outcomes
Aligned with Ohio’s Standards for the Teaching Profession (OSTP) and national InTASC standards, these outcomes define the competencies and expectations for teacher candidates. - Professional Conduct Expectations
Requirements for maintaining good moral character and ethical conduct in alignment with state licensure policies. - Student Teaching Requirements and Timeliness
Step-by-step guidance on applying for and for student teaching, including placement details, timelines, evaluation criteria, and required documentation. - Background Checks and Licensure Exams
Procedures for completing BCI and FBA background checks and registering for Ohio’s required licensure assessments. - ePortfolio and edTPA Information
Digital portfolio development and submission requirements.
Students are expected to consult the handbook regularly and maintain close communication with advisors and the licensure coordinator.
View the Teacher Education Handbook
Advising and Student Resources
- General Bulletin – School of Graduate Studies
University-wide academic policies, degree requirements, and course descriptions. - Graduate Music Handbook
A comprehensive guide to Department of Music policies, procedures, and deadlines. - Current Graduate Students Page
Access forms, exams, assistantships, travel, funding, and links to academic support services.