Summer Music Education Master's Degree
Program components
The School of Music at Western Michigan University offers a unique and practical program which allows the working music educator an opportunity to complete all course work for a master's degree through summer study.
Summer scholarships
Elsie Kohlenstein Watson Endowed Scholarships are available to support in-service music educators in their pursuit of graduate studies in music education. Scholarships are available to degree and non-degree seeking students enrolled in six credits of coursework (including one workshop) in summer session I and summer session II, in the WMU School of Music. Application deadline is April 1.
Music education core
These courses develop the understanding of issues in music education, research, philosophy and other broad topics which cross all areas of professional education.
Musical foundations
Courses in music theory, history and applied music are offered each summer to develop and refine individual musical skills and understanding.
Instructional development
Application of theory into practice occurs in this part of the program. Short courses and workshops in general, choral and instrumental music (including conducting) are offered each summer. The materials, courses and workshops provide graduate students a chance to discover new teaching techniques and innovative ideas in their area of interest.
Electives
These approved courses allow the graduate student a chance for personal development by providing an opportunity to explore other areas of education.
Program requirements
The Master of Music in Music Education degree program is designed to enhance the candidate's teaching, performing, research and creative abilities in music. The graduate advisor in the School of Music works closely with each candidate in planning and implementing a degree program which will accommodate the candidate's professional needs and interests and, at the same time, will realize the full value and depth of the University's graduate offerings.
The candidate's needs are determined by an evaluation of the results of preliminary examinations and a review of the first six to 10 semester hours of course work. After this evaluation and review, the graduate advisor provides information to the candidate regarding probable success in the degree program and possible time limitations that may apply to the candidate's completion of degree requirements.
Admission requirements
A Bachelor of Music degree with a major in music education and a teaching certificate is required for admission.
Entrance requirements
Proficiency examinations in theory and history.
Required courses
MUS 6110 Introduction to Research in Music (3 hours)
MUS 6420 Philosophy and History of Music Education (2 hours)
MUS 6500 Seminar in Music Education (4 hours)
Electives in Music Education (6 hours)
Additional studies in theory, history, applied music or composition, plus electives to complete the 30 semester hour minimum requirement.
Culminating project
A culminating project or other options will be determined in consultation with the graduate advisor.
General information
Enrollment in a graduate program at Western Michigan University is contingent upon admission to the university and the School of Music. Online applications may be completed at the graduate admissions website.
For information about graduate studies in music at WMU contact the graduate advisor at music-grad@wmich.edu.