Information on Master of Arts (MA) Degree Program in Music
Majors Overview July 25, 2015This article talks about Master of Arts (M.A.) degree programs in Music Education and their educational requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master of Arts (M.A.) Programs in Music Education
Teachers seeking leadership and research positions in school settings would benefit by enrolling into Master of Arts (M.A.) in Music Education programs. Experienced educators with initial licensure and an interest in career advancement would especially benefit. Didactic education is augmented by completion of independent research in music education and seminars, in addition to an internship and a thesis.
Workshops are sometimes attended to develop a grasp of students’ learning and school environments. In most programs, teachers are required to build a portfolio of work serving to reflect their progress over the duration of the program and identify future goals. An emphasis or concentration in music therapy is available in some programs.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold initial teacher certification and have prior teaching experience, in addition to submitting Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores and completing a vocal or instrument audition.
Coursework
Knowledge in music theory is among the coursework whereby scholars learn about ways of enriching the lives of their students. Music theories and philosophies learned in undergraduate training are commonly expanded on, and teachers are encouraged to build a sense of autonomy in classroom settings. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Educational Leadership
•Curriculum assessment
•Music education history
•Music Literature
•Instructional methodology
Career Choices
Program graduates armed with musical proficiency and leadership, classroom management, and assessment skills can seek careers in music and education. They can seek available job positions such as:
•Music therapist
•Music educator
•Musician
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a job growth of 12% has been predicted for all kindergarten and elementary school teachers, including music teachers. During the same period, high school teachers are expected to see a 6% job growth (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2013, secondary teachers brought in an average annual wage of $58,260. Elementary teachers earned an average wage of $56,320 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates could pursue continuing education by enrolling into doctoral studies in music education or a related field. Schools offer doctoral programs in concentrations such as composition, music therapy, performing arts and theater. Research and criticism in the field wield a heavy influence on doctorate programs in music education. A doctoral degree will enable graduates to seek university-level teaching careers. They may also pursue other career options such as conducting, private training, music therapy, or composing, depending on the scholastic area of focus.
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