Music Education
Program Description
Students in OU's Music Education program learn through hands-on experiences, including student teaching, the fundamentals needed to teach music. The program's dynamic curriculum develops the reflective teacher by linking applied research with practice through a variety of experiences.
Students also work with nationally recognized School of Music faculty members who prepare students to teach, perform, and research music. OU's music faculty includes performing artists and scholars offering instruction in all instruments, voice, piano, piano pedagogy, music education, technology, musicology, theory, and composition. Many of the music education faculty have worked in elementary through high school music programs and have been nationally and internationally published.
So, what's my degree?
A music education student graduates with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. Students can then choose to pursue Master of Music Education or Doctor of Philosophy in music education degrees.
Do my interests fit?
Music dducation students typically have interests in:
- Music
- Sharing music with others
- Piano
- Music Theory, Musicology, and Ethnomusicology
- Teaching
High school preparation should include music performance and ensemble participation; these are essential to success in this degree field. Prior experience in piano and music theory are also invaluable to success as a music education student.
How can I get involved?
Ensembles and Choirs
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Sigma Alpha Iota
Music Educators National Association
Kappa Kappa Psi & Tau Beta Sigma
Music Teachers National Association
Graduate Music Student Association
What courses will I take?
Music education courses include:
- Musical Structures I-V
- Aural Skills I-IV
- Music in Culture
- Introduction to Music Education
- Introduction to Teaching Techniques in Music
- Instrumental Music Ed Methods I-III
- Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence
Wait, I can have a minor?
Music education students may want to explore minors in:
How can I study abroad?
- The University of Oklahoma has a fantastic study abroad program. Music majors usually take advantage of summer programs to earn general education credit.
- Whether you want to take electives, lower-division courses, or major requirements, be sure to check out what education abroad opportunities are available to you through the College of International Studies.
- Opportunities are also available to perform abroad with ensembles and choirs.
What kind of career could I pursue?
Public school districts
Private schools
Colleges and universities
Self-employed
How much will I make?
Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree.
Program Accreditation
The University of Oklahoma School of Music is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Contact Us
School of Music
Phone: (405) 325-2081
Email: elizabeth.nunley@ou.edu
Website: music.ou.edu
