Music Education, BM
Program Details
- Location
- Akron Campus
- Level
- undergraduate
- Degree/Program Type
- Bachelor of Music / major
- Format
- In-person
- Course Info
- Music Education, Vocal & Keyboard, BM
- Music Education, Instrumental Band, BM
- Music Education, Instrumental String, BM
- College
- Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
- School/Department
- School of Performing Arts
Program Contact
- Christine Russell
-
Associate Professor
330-972-2785
Overview
Prepare to lead the next generation of musicians. The Bachelor of Music in Music Education is a professional degree that leads to initial teaching licensure in Ohio for grades K–12. Choose from three licensure tracks—Vocal & Keyboard, Instrumental Band, or Instrumental String—and build a strong foundation in music theory, history, keyboard skills, and ensemble performance. Through a series of sequential teaching methods courses and field experiences, you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and classroom experience needed to launch your career as a music educator.
Admissions Requirements
Meet admission requirements for undergraduates
To be accepted as a music major, both freshmen and transfer students must successfully complete an audition on their major applied instrument, complete the Undergraduate Placement Examination in Music Theory, and be evaluated in keyboard skills.
Students who major in music education must pass a departmental barrier exam typically attempted at the end of the second year of study.
Students must also meet admission requirements for the School of Education and be able to pass required criminal background checks to fulfill observation and field experience components of the degree.
Click here for more audition information.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the music education program are prepared to become licensed K–12 music teachers in public and private schools. Many go on to lead vocal, instrumental, or general music programs at the elementary, middle, or high school level. Others pursue graduate study or work in community arts organizations, music camps, or church music programs. This degree also builds valuable skills in leadership, communication, and creativity—skills that serve you in and beyond the classroom.
Let UA Bring Out the Music in You
The University of Akron has a wide variety of opportunities to pursue a career in music. Come let us help you find the music inside of you.
Choose Your Licensure Track
Each licensure area blends core music training with specialized teaching methods to prepare you for success in the classroom.
Develop your voice as both a musician and an educator through a program that combines vocal and keyboard training with coursework in theory, history, and teaching methods. You'll gain experience through private lessons, ensemble performances, and hands-on classroom practice, including a full semester of student teaching. Graduates are prepared to teach general music, choir, or keyboard in elementary and secondary schools, lead school or community choirs, or pursue roles in church music, private instruction, or graduate study.
Related Programs:
Faculty Profiles:
- Dr. Kateri Miller
- Dr. Christine Russell
- Dr. Mayumi Kikuchi
- Dr. TJ Harper
This degree prepares you to teach instrumental music in schools while building a strong foundation in musicianship and leadership. Through immersive coursework, ensemble performance, and a full semester of student teaching, you’ll gain the confidence and credentials to lead bands, teach general music, and inspire students at every level. Graduates pursue careers as middle or high school band directors, studio instructors, marching band leaders, community arts educators, and freelance performers.
Related Programs:
Faculty Profiles:
- Dr. Christine Russell
- Dr. Kateri Miller
- Dr. Galen Karriker
Prepare to lead and inspire the next generation of string musicians through a degree that blends music theory, history, and performance with specialized training in string teaching methods. You'll gain hands-on experience through applied lessons, ensemble participation, and a full semester of student teaching—culminating in initial state licensure. Graduates go on to teach K–12 orchestra, lead string ensembles, offer private instruction, and contribute to music education in schools, community programs, and beyond.
Related Programs:
Faculty Profiles:
- Dr. Christine Russell
- Dr. Kateri Miller
- Dr. Marlene Moses
The UA Advantage
We recognize your drive for success. At UA, our facilities, technology, and active student engagement create an inspiring and supportive environment for learning.
Connected to Classrooms Across Ohio
Our graduates are teaching music in schools across the state. With a strong alumni network and statewide reputation, you'll join a community that opens doors to job opportunities in K–12 music education.
Ohio Music Education Association
Specialized Technology and Instruments
Learn and perform in dedicated music studios, a tech-equipped lab, 3,000-seat E.J. Thomas Hall, and the intimate Guzzetta Recital Hall, where our Steinway Spirio, one of the world’s most advanced pianos, lets students perform, record, and playback with stunning precision.
Spirio Concert Piano at UA
Performance Opportunities
From jazz combos to full orchestras, our ensembles give you the stage time to grow as a musician.
School of Performing Arts Ensembles
Real-World Experience
Perform, compose, and collaborate beyond the classroom through masterclasses, recitals, productions, and public performances.
School of Performing Arts CalendarMeet Our Faculty
Learn from experienced educators and musicians who are dedicated to preparing the next generation of school music teachers.
