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Music Education

2012-2013 Internship Handbook

Summer 2013 ORFF LEVEL 1 Teacher Training Workshop

Undergraduate Studies in Music Education

Prospective students often inquire about Music Education at the University of Arkansas.

For undergraduate students interested in teaching music - for example, as a band director, choral director, string teacher, or general music teacher in the public schools, the University and Department of Music offer the curriculum leading to the Music Education degree (with qualifications for licensure). Licensure is typically attained via the State of Arkansas Department of Education, and most states grant reciprocity (recognition of licensure) for the Arkansas Teaching License (sometimes referred to as certification). This degree and licensure path requires a semester of internship beyond the awarding of the degree. For those interested in private or non-certified positions, the University also grants the degree without internship.

This professional degree is officially described as the Bachelor of Music - Music Education, with specialization or emphasis in a particular area (such as instrumental or choral). Enrolling in the Music Education program means you are a music major, and much of your coursework is very specific to music education. Music Education majors are not enrolled in the College of Education, they are in the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, of which the Department of Music is a member.

Graduate Studies in Music Education

The Graduate Program in Music Education is primarily for those interested in additional study of effective teaching in music and research in music education, and leads to the M.M. (Master of Music in Music Education). Teaching experience is required for admission to the Graduate Program in Music Education. Two stages of admittance are prescribed.

First, a videotape of the applicant demonstrating relevant teaching behaviors should accompany application materials sent to the department. Graduate faculty in Music Education will review the videotape, and will make a recommendation regarding conditional acceptance for the first semester.

Second, prior to the completion of the first semester, a written examination and/or interview process will be completed by all applicants desiring formal and continued acceptance in the program. The written exam, when appropriate, will be designed in consultation with faculty in other areas and administered by Music Education faculty. The interview will be with Music Education faculty, after which students will be informed of their 1) acceptance in the program, 2) conditional acceptance in the program (remediation in some areas required), or 3) non-continuance in the degree program.

 

Students or parents with additional questions should feel free to contact Music Education faculty members:

Applicants for the graduate program can contact Music Ed faculty or the Coordinator of Graduate Studies: