M.S. or M.Mus. Music Education (PreK-Grade 12)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Syracuse University

Program Overview

Syracuse University's Music Education master's programs prepare musicians and practising music teachers to develop advanced teaching skills and musical expertise for educational settings from prekindergarten through Grade 12. Students combine music performance, music theory, educational psychology, curriculum development and inclusive teaching practices, with two pathways: M.S. Preparation for candidates seeking initial New York State teacher certification and M.Mus. Professional for already-certified music teachers seeking professional certification.

Curriculum Structure

M.S. Preparation: Students develop teaching foundations through graduate music education methods, psychological and sociological aspects of music, literacy across the curriculum and equitable assessment. They also study music history, advanced tonal analysis, research methods and choral or instrumental rehearsal techniques, alongside five supervised school placements.

M.Mus. Professional: Students advance their teaching and musicianship through current problems in music education, psychological and sociological aspects of music, advanced tonal analysis and graduate music history. They select specialised music education and performance electives and complete a thesis, lecture recital or comprehensive examination.

Note: The M.S. Preparation requires 47–48 credits and typically takes five semesters, including summer. The M.Mus. Professional requires 33 credits and can typically be completed in one year.

Focus Areas

Music pedagogy, instrumental music education, choral education, general music instruction, music performance, music theory, inclusive music education, curriculum development, music research, classroom assessment.

Learning Outcomes

Develop effective music teaching strategies, design music curricula, lead instrumental and choral ensembles, apply inclusive teaching methods, assess musical development, integrate technology into music education, conduct educational research, support diverse learners.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The School of Education is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). The M.S. Preparation pathway meets academic requirements for New York State initial teacher certification in Music (PreK–Grade 12), while the M.Mus. Professional pathway supports professional certification for already-certified music teachers.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Syracuse University reports a 94% career outcome rate and an average starting salary of $51,175 for School of Education graduates; these figures are school-wide, not specific to Music Education. Students benefit from access to Setnor School of Music faculty, performance ensembles, rehearsal facilities and professional music education networks.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Syracuse University, the M.S. and M.Mus. in Music Education (PreK-Grade 12) programs are designed to provide students with hands-on, practical experiences that are essential for developing effective teaching skills. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world teaching environments. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, allowing students to engage with the community and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the Music Education programs at Syracuse University:

- Performance Spaces: Students can utilize the Setnor School of Music’s performance venues, including the beautiful Crouse Hinds Concert Theater, for rehearsals and performances.
- Technology Integration: Access to music technology labs equipped with software like Finale and Sibelius, which are essential for music composition and arrangement.
- Field Experiences: Opportunities for internships and field placements in local schools, allowing students to gain practical teaching experience in diverse educational settings.
- Collaborative Projects: Engage in group projects that foster teamwork and creativity, often culminating in community performances or educational workshops.
- Research Facilities: Utilize the resources at the Syracuse University Libraries, including extensive music collections and research databases, to support academic work and projects.
- Workshops and Masterclasses: Participate in workshops and masterclasses led by visiting artists and educators, providing insights into current trends and practices in music education.
- Community Engagement: Involvement in outreach programs that connect students with local schools and community organizations, enhancing their teaching skills and community ties.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an M.S. or M.Mus. in Music Education (PreK-Grade 12) at Syracuse University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities in the field of music education. Graduates often find themselves in fulfilling roles such as music teachers, curriculum developers, and educational administrators. The skills and knowledge gained through this program prepare you to make a significant impact in the lives of students and the broader educational community.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Syracuse offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for music education students. The Music Education department also provides mentorship opportunities with experienced faculty.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from Syracuse's Music Education program have a strong employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for music educators in New York State is approximately $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Syracuse has established partnerships with local schools and music organizations, providing students with hands-on teaching experiences and internship opportunities that enhance their practical skills and professional networks.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring that your degree meets high standards of quality and is recognized nationally, which can enhance your employability.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold influential positions in various educational settings, including public and private schools, community music programs, and educational policy organizations.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your M.S. or M.Mus. in Music Education, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Music Education or a related field. This could lead to opportunities in higher education teaching, research, or administrative roles within educational institutions. Additionally, you might explore specialized certifications or endorsements that can enhance your expertise and career prospects in areas such as music therapy or educational leadership.