Music Education

Our coursework combines the study of philosophical, research-based, and theoretical positions of teaching and learning music with pragmatic approaches to improving music learning. You will be guided through a background of many disciplines as they relate to music, education and research. As a graduate student, you will have an academic advisor who you will meet each semester to discuss the most appropriate trajectory for advancing through the program. 

This degree requires 30 hours of coursework including: Graduate Music Education Core (12-15 credit units of research-based coursework in music education); the Graduate Music Core (9-12 credit units of music theory, musicology, applied lessons, or ensemble performance); Electives (6-9 credit units, Plan B only); and either the Plan A, Thesis (6 hours) or Plan B,  Comprehensive Exam. 

As a full-time student, you can expect to earn your degree in two years with nine credits per semester. As a part-time student, you can expect to complete this degree in five years with three credits per semester. You can also earn a Master of Arts for Licensure (MAL) Concentration. The MAL is for those with an undergraduate degree in music who wish to obtain a licensure to teach music in the public schools while simultaneously pursuing graduate study in music education. Learn more about our MAL program.

Applicants with good academic records from fully accredited universities and colleges will be considered for admission to graduate study at Case Western Reserve University. Admission must be recommended by the department or professional school of the university in which the applicant proposes to study and must be approved by the dean of graduate studies. 

Applicants for the MA in Music Education must have at least a 3.0 GPA from a completed undergraduate degree program in music education, minimum of one year of successful school music teaching experience in group settings, and evidence of strong written and spoken English skills. After initial review, applicants may be invited to campus for an interview. The MA does not require a vocal or an instrumental audition.