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Music Education

EKU students teach an orchestra class for elementary studentsThe Music Education program at EKU enjoys a tradition of excellence. Graduates hold positions teaching music in P-12 settings, higher education, private studios, and community organizations.

Music education majors have numerous outlets to engage in teaching music prior to their student teaching experience. These experiences give EKU graduates a competitive edge in the job market, while also allowing them opportunities for professional networking within their field of study.

Examples of Our Hands-On Curriculum

  • Engagement in the Clinical Educator program. In this program, pre-service undergraduate teachers are placed with partnering local P-12 schools where EKU students observe, tutor and instruct young musicians on a weekly basis
  • Opportunities to engage with the implementation of large scale educational events such as the EKU Middle School Honors Band, and the EKU High School Honors Band
  • Experiences with EKU partnerships, including:   Foster Music Camp, Model Laboratory School, & Foster Academy of Musical Excellence (F.A.M.E.)

Degree Programs

Online Master’s Degree

Our online master’s degree in music education offers a unique and engaging learning approach that supports preK-12 music curriculum and allows you to combine your passion for music with best practices for innovative music education.

Reasons to Choose EKU for Your Online Degree

EKU is a regionally-accredited university that has received numerous honors, is ranked among the nation’s best colleges, and has been educating students for more than a century.

What Sets Our Online Degree Program Apart?

Providing a personalized learning experience and a focus on best practices, EKU’s curriculum blends aspects of both academic and professional preparation. Course topics integrate specialized coursework in music education, with additional graduate level coursework in music history and music theory. In addition, the program utilizes a flexible elective offering, allowing students the opportunity to reach their career goals and focus on their musical interests.

  • 8-week terms
  • Personalized graduation plan
  • Study anytime, from anywhere
  • Accredited by The National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
  • Study with nationally recognized, award-winning faculty, guest artists and clinicians
  • Personalized and flexible learning experience culminating with a capstone project (no thesis requirement)
  • Ranked by U.S. News and World Report among the best universities offering online degrees

Total Online Curriculum Requirements: 32 Hours

Online Master of Music Core (12 hours)

  • Music Literature
    MUS 775: Symphonic Music Literature (or)
    MUS 756: Choral Music Literature
  • Music History
    MUS 872: Seminar in Music History
  • Music Theory 
    MUS 884 or 887: Analytical Techniques I
  • Project, Recital, or Thesis 
    MUS 896, 897 or 899: Special Project in Music

Online Music Education Option Requirements (10 hours)

  • MUS 712 or 750: Teaching Techniques
  • MUS 878: Foundations of Music
  • MUS 885: Psychology of Music
  • MUS 898: Research in Music and Music Education

Online Electives  (10 hours)

  • MUS 710:  Special Topics in Music (topics will vary)
  • MUS 786:  Workshop in Instrumental Music
  • Advisor approved electives from related areas

Elective credits must include at least 4 credits of applied music courses.

Online Exit Requirements

  • GRD 857i: M.M. Music Written Comprehensive Exam OR GRD 858i: M.M. Music Oral Comprehensive Exam

Online Degree Contact Information

Please contact Dr. Tim Wiggins if you are interested in learning more about our online Master of Music in Music Education degree program.

National Association for Music Education Collegiate

Membership in the National Association for Music Education Collegiate is focused on future music educators succeeding in their schools and careers. Learn more on their website.

School of Music


521 Lancaster Avenue
Foster 101
Richmond, KY 40475
Phone: 859-622-3266
Email: music@eku.edu

Connect with Music @ EKU