Although many people enjoy listening to music, others are fascinated by everything that goes into the complicated rhythms that craft songs and compositions. The latter may turn their music enthusiasm into a career as a music teacher or professional composer.
An online master’s in music education teaches music theory, leadership, conducting and trends to develop advanced music skills, especially as they apply to teaching environments. Students pursuing these music degrees are often music teachers wishing to enhance their skills in advanced areas of music, like music psychology or arranging.
Current teachers can also benefit from the flexibility of an online program, allowing them to work while completing their degree. Discover the 10 best online master’s in music education programs below.
Our Methodology
- Best Online Master’s in Music Education Degree Options
- Should You Enroll in an Online Master’s in Music Education Program?
- Accreditation for an Online Master’s in Music Education
- How To Find the Right Online Master’s in Music Education Program for You
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Master’s in Music Education
Best Online Master’s in Music Education Degree Options
Should You Enroll in an Online Master’s in Music Education Program?
Pursuing an online master of music education offers flexibility to learners who work during the day. Asynchronous online programs let students review materials and complete assignments conveniently with their busy schedules.
Still, some online music education programs require in-person components, like conducting workshops or ensemble performances. Students should contact an advisor before enrolling in a program to learn about potential on-campus elements.
However, the online learning environment can be challenging for students who learn best through face-to-face instruction and peer collaboration. Successful online learners are self-disciplined and can independently complete work with minimal instructor involvement.
Accreditation for an Online Master’s in Music Education
If you plan to pursue teaching licensure after completing a master’s in music education, you should look for a school with institutional accreditation. This type of accreditation ensures schools meet quality standards for academics, faculty and student outcomes.
Some graduate-level music education programs or departments may receive programmatic accreditation, indicating they meet industry standards for teaching preparation. Many states require institutional or programmatic accreditation for teaching preparation programs leading to licensure.
The National Association of Schools of Music and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation are common accrediting bodies for master’s in music education programs. Meanwhile, institutional accreditation for graduate programs comes from one of the following organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA):
- Higher Learning Commission
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- New England Commission of Higher Education
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- WASC Senior College and University Commission
You can find school or program accreditation information by searching the CHEA directory.
How To Find the Right Online Master’s in Music Education Program for You
Consider Your Future Goals
To determine what features you want in a master of music education program, think about your goals after graduation. For example, if you’re a current music teacher, you won’t need a program leading to licensure. Instead, you might pursue a degree designed for current teachers to concentrate in a new teaching discipline, like ensembles.
Graduate-level music education programs, like that from East Carolina University, may offer a thesis option. This is a good choice if you plan to enroll in a doctoral program. If not, choose a program with a capstone instead.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
According to National Center for Education Statistics data, public schools charged graduate students an average of $12,394 for the 2020-21 school year, while the average tuition for private schools was $26,621.
To compare, online master’s in music education programs in our ranking cost between $290 and $997 per credit, or $4,350 to $14,955 per year for a full-time, 30-credit program.
Although several online schools on our list cost less than $500 per credit, you can reduce your financial commitment through financial aid. Fill out the FAFSA online to see if you qualify for scholarships, grants and loans.
Additionally, some schools, like Illinois State University, offer assistantships for students in music education programs to develop skills alongside credentialed faculty and earn money toward their degree.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Master’s in Music Education
What are the benefits of a masters in music education?
A master’s in music education can advance music educators’ careers or lead future music teachers closer to licensure. These programs develop skills in music technology, theory and teaching, all enhancing music classrooms of various ages and skill levels.
What can you do with a master's in music?
A master’s in music can lead to music teaching roles in public or private, K-12 and higher learning classrooms. Graduates may direct marching bands or performance ensembles within schools or become directors or composers for professional choirs.
What is the difference between MM and MA?
A master of arts curriculum, or MA, usually incorporates research and writing into a music education through a thesis. On the other hand, a master of music, or MM, emphasizes music’s theory and practical application.