10 Best Online Master’s of Music Education Degree Programs

A master’s in music education program is a graduate-level degree that integrates research components with various courses that provide students the opportunity to analyze, create, and share their own music education practices. Students typically complete a portfolio and undertake in-depth action research on a topic of their choosing, in addition to completing didactic coursework.

A master’s in music education degree program provides training designed for musicians who work in the field of education. This includes:

School and independent music educators
Creative education leaders and facilitators
Animateurs
Ensemble/choir directors and coaches
Professional musicians like symphonic players

Online students who enroll and study full-time typically complete a master’s in music education degree in two years. But since each program has different required credit hours and coursework, the average time-to-degree may change.

Some students work while pursuing their degrees, which could lengthen the time it takes them to complete the degree. Conversely, the amount of time it takes to graduate can be shortened by enrolling in accelerated classes.

A master’s degree typically costs $62,650. If students enroll with an out-of-state status or attend private schools, their tuition costs will likely increase substantially.

A master’s degree earned online, however, may be a less expensive option. Since there are fewer administrative expenses at an online school, tuition fees can be cheaper.

Keep reading and explore the best online music education master’s and what to expect during and after earning them.

Overview of Online Master’s in Music Education Degrees

Master’s in music education degrees are offered in four-year universities across the nation. As online education becomes more prevalent in colleges and universities in the United States, there’s an increasing number of schools offering online master’s in music degrees.

Like the traditional brick-and-mortar master’s in music education degrees, online master in music degree programs require students to complete 30-33 credit hours of coursework. The average completion time of a master in music education online is two years if students enroll full-time. Part-time students take longer, up to three and a half years.

You can often select a concentration, such as conducting, special education, or music technology.

While admission requirements for music programs vary from program to program, prospective students must hold a bachelor’s degree, preferably in music, to qualify for a master’s program in music education. Courses in online music education degrees are created with working professionals in mind, which is why most of them conduct classes in asynchronous learning formats.

There are numerous career options for those with an online master’s in music education. Find out what else you can do with this versatile degree.

Best Online Master’s of Music Education Programs

Methodology:

We want to ensure that you won’t be spending a dime on online music schools that cannot guarantee a good return on investment. The following online Master’s in Music Education degree programs offer various theoretical approaches but are all designed to prepare students for careers as future music educators.

The schools on the list are offered online at reasonable costs to ensure flexibility and the best value. However, it is important to note that some coursework may require a combination of in-person and online courses.

All of the music education programs are provided by regionally accredited universities, demonstrating that they adhere to the highest education standards. They are also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), an organization recognizing quality in music-related degree programs.

Career Outlook for Students with Music Degree

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Music

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $11,720
Avg. Expenses*: $17,446
Avg. Starting Salary*: $30,521
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $38,499
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 8 years
Job Growth: 1.06%
Number of Jobs: 1,245,800
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Musicians and Singers	1.21%	No data
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	3.14%	$71,919
Music Directors and Composers	1.16%	$64,602
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	1.03%	$61,619

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%	Median	Top 10%
$39,963	$68,572	$119,420

Promising Job Markets

State	Cost of Living	Avg. Salary
#2 New York	5% higher than average	$100,503
#3 Georgia	13% higher than average	$80,380
#4 Missouri	16% higher than average	$75,328
#5 Texas	10% higher than average	$77,160
#6 Vermont	13% higher than average	$95,829
#7 Louisiana	9% higher than average	$75,105
#8 Rhode Island	20% higher than average	$98,736
#9 Connecticut	18% higher than average	$94,112
#10 California	26% higher than average	$96,141
#11 Ohio	14% higher than average	$65,792
#12 Colorado	3% higher than average	$77,708
#13 Mississippi	18% higher than average	$60,986
#14 Pennsylvania	5% higher than average	$70,264
#15 Iowa	9% higher than average	$66,764
#16 Kentucky	14% higher than average	$62,916
#17 Indiana	11% higher than average	$64,981
#18 Delaware	2% higher than average	$74,160
#19 New Jersey	13% higher than average	$81,383
#20 Oklahoma	13% higher than average	$62,002
#21 Tennessee	14% higher than average	$61,071
#22 Arkansas	16% higher than average	$59,331
#23 Minnesota	4% higher than average	$66,704
#24 Illinois	7% higher than average	$64,620
#25 South Carolina	8% higher than average	$63,696
#26 Idaho	7% higher than average	$64,036
#27 North Carolina	11% higher than average	$60,673
#28 Nebraska	6% higher than average	$62,743
#29 Michigan	15% higher than average	$56,638
#30 New Hampshire	13% higher than average	$74,695
#31 Florida	6% higher than average	$61,972
#32 Oregon	11% higher than average	$72,502
#33 West Virginia	11% higher than average	$58,066
#34 Wyoming	2% higher than average	$63,898
#35 New Mexico	7% higher than average	$60,049
#36 Alabama	13% higher than average	$55,706
#37 South Dakota	7% higher than average	$59,508
#38 Kansas	9% higher than average	$58,226
#39 Nevada	5% higher than average	$66,604
#40 Alaska	23% higher than average	$77,725
#41 Utah	4% higher than average	$60,552
#42 Montana	3% higher than average	$60,824
#43 Wisconsin	7% higher than average	$57,763
#44 Massachusetts	24% higher than average	$76,021
#45 North Dakota	average	$61,423
#46 Arizona	5% higher than average	$57,872
#47 Virginia	5% higher than average	$57,072
#48 Washington	7% higher than average	$63,086
#49 Maine	9% higher than average	$63,645
#50 Maryland	18% higher than average	$64,095
#51 District of Columbia	49% higher than average	$76,302
#52 Hawaii	40% higher than average	$57,833

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$71,919
Music Directors and Composers	$64,602
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$61,619

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Factors To Consider in Selecting the Best Online Master’s in Music Education

A master’s in music education program that takes a thorough, all-encompassing approach prepares graduates to meet the diverse needs of their students better, whether the objective is to find new career opportunities or to improve how the next generation is instilled with a love of music.

It’s crucial to only consider programs that have received official accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music to guarantee that you receive the highest education standard possible for your career ambitions. These degree programs have excellent content quality, impressive instructor credentials, and a wide range of student resources.

Other factors you must consider include cost, location, and student support services. While didactic coursework can be done online, some graduate programs require students to travel to campus and complete experiential learning opportunities, which is why it’s necessary to apply to an online program near your area.

And as an online student, you will be getting less support than your on-campus peers; thus, you need to ensure that the graduate program offers students support services for its online students, such as tutoring and career counseling, among others.

In addition to the mentioned factors, here are some other overlooked factors that prospective students should take into account:

Research

While all master’s in music education degrees focus on research, you must ensure that the program includes the most recent evidence-based teaching techniques. Talk with an alum or the school and inquire about their opportunities to work on related research projects.

Fieldwork and classroom training

Online programs that offer extensive fieldwork and classroom training programs are not to be overlooked. Sure, you want flexibility, so you choose to learn online. However, online music education programs with fieldwork and classroom training offer a priceless learning opportunity that is not available in any other way.

The best online master’s in music education programs will develop your abilities in a secure, encouraging environment without worrying about logistical issues. Additionally, you can count on valuable, in-the-moment feedback from your classmates and professors, which will ultimately help you become a better music teacher.

Ensemble experiences

Searches for programs with residency or fieldwork components can be focused on by music teachers who want to obtain experience with live performances and ensembles. These master’s programs are also great for networking and bringing together educators so that they may spur one another on to become better teachers.

Non-music classes

Although it may seem unnecessary to some, non-music classes, such as philosophy, computer science, psychology, and art, can broaden one’s perspective and help one develop more effective teaching techniques. Fundamental knowledge of psychology, for instance, can help future music teachers better relate to their students, fostering a climate of safety and trust that enables them to flourish.

Admission Requirements for an Online Master’s in Music Education

Because the best online master in music education degrees provide the same rigorous curriculum as an on-campus program, admission requirements can still be stringent. The most common admission requirement is an undergraduate degree in music or other music-related fields.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, prospective online music students should also expect to fill out an application form and pay a non-refundable application fee. Students are also expected to submit transcripts, resumes, and letters of recommendation and pass the university’s entrance exam. More selective music schools would also require applicants to submit a music audition video and pass an interview.

Application

Although there are few exceptions, the majority of colleges have their own online application processes. As such, be sure to familiarize yourself with the website of your preferred university and understand how to start the application process properly.

The first step of applying is submitting an application form. This form will require you to write down personal information, such as name, address, contact information, etc.

Test Scores

GRE or GMAT scores are often required for graduate programs in music education. If you fulfill specific GPA requirements, some programs will eliminate this requirement.

Resume and Work Experience

When applying to colleges, work experience is a huge benefit to your chances of acceptance. It demonstrates your propensity to pursue an ambitious career. Your willingness to work at a part-time job, summer employment, internship, or even volunteer work will undoubtedly impress admissions committees.

Letters of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation is a piece of documentation, in addition to your resume/CV, that speaks about your accomplishments, character traits, and skill set. This paper is crucial for demonstrating your credibility and worthiness. Moreover, your chances of getting accepted into the college or university of your choosing is boosted with a strong letter of recommendation.

Online degrees in music education often require their applicants to submit at least two letters of recommendation from professors, employers, mentors, or other qualified professionals.

Personal Statements/Essays

Another way to prove your passion and dedication to the field is by writing a stellar personal statement/essay. This requirement allows the admissions committee to learn about you, how you think and make decisions, how your past experiences have shaped you, and how you see your future.

Official Transcripts

Until the institution receives an official transcript from each of your undergraduate universities, your application is incomplete. This means that even if you did not graduate from any of the institutions you attended, you must send a transcript from each one.

Key Point: Some online master’s in music programs may require a personal interview in addition to their other admission requirements.

Common Courses in an Online Master’s in Music Education Degree Program

The main goal of online master’s degree in music education program is to help students become more musically literate while simultaneously equipping them with the skills necessary to teach other people interested in music at various levels. A master’s program in music teaching might include any of the following courses:

Curriculum Design

This course covers music education curriculum development topics. Learning theories, best practices for developing curricula, and assessments specifically related to music education teaching are some of the specific themes covered.

Assessment Techniques

The significance of conducting evaluations and methods to gauge musical aptitude are covered in this course. Students learn about standardized tests to evaluate proficiency and how teachers design efficient classroom examinations.

Music Education Research

This course introduces students to various educational research methods in music, emphasizing design and analysis and critically critiquing some recent music education research projects. Students will be better equipped to comprehend music education research, identify “good” research, and know how to apply it in their classroom.

Music Psychology

Students explore the psychological theories and ideas about music and how individuals react to it. Students learn how music is interacted with by teachers, performers, composers, and listeners and the function that music serves in society.

Community Music Perspectives

This course covers several topics, including music therapy, communal music in education, the study of music from many cultures, and ethnomusicology. The social, political, cultural, and economic aspects that influence community music may be discussed. Students may also design and evaluate their own community music project as part of the course.

Concentration Options in an Online Master’s in Music Education Degree Program

Students majoring in music education must often select a concentration within their field of study at many universities. These are some of the most popular concentrations for master’s in music education students, though they may differ by college:

Early Childhood Music

One of the most common music education concentrations is early childhood music. This concentration is open to students interested in teaching music to young students. Students may study conducting, pedagogical theory, and particular teaching methods for instructing the smallest music enthusiasts.

Music Technology

Students in this concentration study the technologies that can be utilized to create or teach music. Music theory, music research, and educational philosophies are all covered in the course material.

Conducting

The specifics of conducting an orchestra, choir, or band in a school setting are covered in this specialization. Advanced directing techniques, curriculum building, rehearsal procedures, and score preparation are all included in the course material.

Performance

This concentration looks at the psychology and background of musical performance. Students learn about recital research, performance philosophies, and current performance education trends.

Special Education

The special education concentration is one of the rarest concentrations offered. The topics covered in this specialization include using music in special education classrooms to assist pupils in overcoming their particular challenges.

What To Expect After Earning a Master of Music Education

Upon earning your master’s degree in music education, you will have advanced in skills, such as strong research, writing, teaching, critical thinking, assessment, and evaluation, that you can use in teaching and non-teaching music careers. These skills will help you qualify for senior positions with greater compensation.

Graduates of an online master in music education degree can work in public or private schools, postsecondary institutions, as a choir or group director, or in private instruction. Salary ranges vary depending on the region and the field of study.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for postsecondary art, theater, and music teachers is $ 77,280. The BLS predicts that the job outlook for teachers in primary and secondary schools will be “good to excellent” until at least 2031. The BLS estimates that the job growth rate for teaching professionals will be 7% overall.

Following are some career possibilities for graduates of a master’s degree in music education:

Elementary School Music Teachers

Music educators in elementary schools use their expertise to teach children how to play an instrument or appreciate music. Equipped with a music degree, these teachers construct age-appropriate lesson plans for young students, create and evaluate student assignments, and work one-on-one with children to provide them with additional support as needed.

Average Annual Salary: $61,350

High School Music Teachers

High school music teachers give lessons on how to play an instrument and perform in front of an audience or instruct pupils on various musical subjects, like music theory. Creating a lesson plan, evaluating students’ abilities, offering advice to help them grow, and developing classroom rules are part of being a high school music teacher.

Average Annual Salary: $61,820

Music Curriculum Developers

Music curriculum developers enhance the educational opportunities provided in a school system. They assess what is being taught in the classroom and make necessary revisions. These experts examine data to determine how children perform on exams, assess and suggest teaching aids, and educate other instructors to help them be more effective in the classroom.

Average Annual Salary: $62,430

Music Directors and Composers

Managing a band’s performance and recording operations falls within the purview of music directors and composers. Leading rehearsals in preparation for a performance in front of an audience or a studio, choosing the musical arrangements that will be played, staying current with music in many genres, and writing unique songs are only a few of their responsibilities.

Average Annual Salary:$49,130

Music Ministry Directors

Large and small churches rely on music ministry directors to select the music performed during services and provide guidance to choirs and musicians. Job duties may include auditioning performers, leading rehearsals, and planning music for special events such as holiday services.

Average Annual Salary: $50,544

Student Submitted Questions About Online Master’s of Music Education Programs

Why is music education important in classrooms?

There are several reasons why music education is important in classrooms. Music helps keep children interested in class, from math and science to history. Teachers can include music instruction in their regular classes, if not as a separate subject.

How long does it take to complete an online master’s in music education?

The length of the program depends on several factors. However, full-time students in a 30-33 credits MME program can complete the coursework in as little as two years. Some accelerated degree programs can be completed in as little as 14-18 months.

Is a master’s in music education studies worth it?

The answer depends on your personal goals. If you have a bachelor’s degree in music, you must get a master’s in music education to be certified as a teacher of classic and contemporary music education in a public school setting. Completing an accredited online master’s in music education can also help you grow professionally if you’re already a music instructor.

What’s next after a master’s degree in music education program?

MME graduates are required to obtain a state teaching license exam to work in a K–12 setting. In most states, licensed music educators must renew their licenses every three to five years and complete continuing education requirements.

You can also obtain the Music Teachers National Association accreditation to increase your credibility. Those who want to advance their positions and pursue positions in postsecondary institutions must obtain a PhD and pursue a specialization.

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10 Best Online Master’s of Music Education Degree Programs

Key Takeaways

Best Online Master's in Music Education Degree Programs

Overview of Online Master’s in Music Education Degrees

Best Online Master’s of Music Education Programs

Career Outlook for Music degree at University of Minnesota

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Career Outlook for Music degree at Boston University

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Career Outlook for Music degree at University of Florida

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Career Outlook for Music degree at University of Georgia

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Career Outlook for Music degree at University at Buffalo

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Career Outlook for Music degree at University of South Florida

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Career Outlook for Music degree at San Jose State University

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Career Outlook for Music degree at Texas Tech University

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Career Outlook for Music degree at Florida International University

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Career Outlook for Music degree at Georgia College & State University

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Career Outlook for Students with Music Degree

Music

Degree Level: Master's

Career Salaries

Average Career Salaries

Promising Job Markets

Top Industries

Factors To Consider in Selecting the Best Online Master’s in Music Education

Research

Fieldwork and classroom training

Ensemble experiences

Non-music classes

Admission Requirements for an Online Master’s in Music Education

Application

Test Scores

Resume and Work Experience

Letters of Recommendation

Personal Statements/Essays

Official Transcripts

Common Courses in an Online Master’s in Music Education Degree Program

Curriculum Design

Assessment Techniques