Music Education, M.M.

Admission Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).

2. Bachelor's degree in music education from an accredited institution. It must also adhere to the general guidelines for undergraduate competencies in music theory, music history, music performance, conducting, ensemble participation and music education preparation as established by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Students must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in required music courses in their undergraduate degrees.

3. Three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic background, musicianship and teaching effectiveness. This letter should provide evidence of successful teaching experience, academic ability and professionalism.

4. A resume of educational and professional achievements.

5. A scholarly writing sample of no less than 4 and no more than 15 pages using appropriate citations and sources in the area(s) of music theory, music history, music education or educational psychology.

6. Although not required, formal music teaching experience in public or private school systems is preferred.

7. Applicants may be asked to participate in a phone or on-line interview at the discretion of the music education coordinator.

8. Initial Certificate in Music.

In addition, all applicants should review the Admission to a Graduate Program section in this catalog.

Additional Admission Requirements for those Applicants Seeking New York State Professional Certification

1. New York State Initial Certification. (Those students seeking New York State Professional Certification with teaching certificates/licenses from states other than New York must apply for and be granted a New York State Initial Teaching Certificate. Requirements for obtaining a New York State Initial Teaching Certificate can be found by visiting the following link: usny.nysed.gov/teachers/)

2. A minimum of one 3-credit hour course involving students with special needs. Transcripts must be provided that document a course which entails instruction regarding the understanding and development of effective teaching strategies for students with special needs. Students without documentation of a special needs class will be required to remediate this requirement by taking EXE 100-Individuals with Special Needs, offered online. This course will not fulfill the course requirements of the Mus. M. in Music Education. Additional coursework, (currently only offered in traditional format) that fulfill this requirement and also fulfill elective credits for the Mus.M in Music Education degree, include: EDU 577 Teaching Individuals with Exceptionalities and EXE 500 Individuals with Special Needs.)

Please Note: Applications accepted for Summer admission.