Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music Education
The Bachelor of Arts in Music Education leads to licensure in the state of West Virginia and easily transfers to other states. Graduates of the Music Education degree program have 100% job placement rate as Band Directors, Choir Directors, and General Music Teachers in K-12 and private schools.
Be Impossible
to Ignore
Our Music Education graduates are award-winning educators who lead students of all ages to become lifelong learners of music.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
Total Credits: 125
Outcome: Certified and Licensed to teach Choral, Instrumental, and/or General Music in K-12 and/or Private Schools
Format: On campus experiential learning, professional education curriculum, year long residency
Program
Overview
Music Education is a priority in K-12 schools. Our graduates become educators with the musical and organizational skills to effectively lead K-12 students in ensembles, classrooms, competitions, and concerts.
Who This
Program Is For
Aspiring Band Directors, Choir Directors, and General Music Teachers
Our students learn the skills necessary to be successful music teachers. The program is designed to train students as educators, musicians, and leaders.
What
You’ll Learn
The Music Education major includes core musicianship study, specialized instrumental and vocal courses, private lesson and ensemble experiences, and professional music education coursework.
Musicianship
Music Theory and Ear Training courses develop skills necessary to teach music at all levels.
Music Technology
Technology literacy is essential in the age of digital audio and artificial intelligence.
Performance
Students study music performance and participate in vocal and instrumental ensembles.
Piano Proficiency
All music education majors complete a sequence of piano courses to develop essential skills.
Professional Education
Students work towards certification via courses from the College of Education and Human Performance alongside courses in instrumental methods, vocal methods, elementary school music methods, and middle and high school methods.
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum combines core music coursework, performance studies, professional music and education coursework, and student teaching and observation.
Program Structure
- Music Core
- Music Support Courses
- Professional Education Courses
- Student Teaching
- General Studies
Required Prerequisites Include:
- Musicianship, Music Theory, and Ear Training courses must be passed with a minimum grade of C in order to progress to the next course in the sequence
- Private Lessons progress through Levels
Career &
Outcomes
The Music Education program is designed to produce graduates who are certified to teach music in a public or private K-12 school.
- Elementary, Middle, High School Music Teacher
- Band or Choir Director
- General Music Teacher
- Professor of Music Education in higher education (graduate degree(s) required)
Our graduates get jobs. We have a 100% employment rate within two years of graduation.
Admission
Requirements
Admission to the Music Program is integrated with the Scholarships we offer. To get started, please fill out the Online Application for Music Scholarships (OAMS).
Requirements
- University admission
- OAMS
Application Deadline Recommendation
Ideally, students will complete the OAMS process during the Spring semester for admission the following Fall. However, students can begin the process at any time and the faculty will work to make the experience easy to navigate and complete.
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid &
Affordability
Tuition and fees vary based on in-state and out-of-state residency. Most program costs are included in tuition; however, additional expenses may include clinical supplies, uniforms, and examination fees.
Financial support options may include:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional and program-specific scholarships
- Academic and financial advising to help plan and manage educational costs
West Liberty University is committed to helping students understand their investment and explore available financial support options.
Steps To
Enrollment
Step 1:
Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2:
OAMS
Dr. Matthew Harder, Chair
Department of Music & Theatre
West Liberty University
mharder@westliberty.edu
304-336-8296
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.