Music Education (M.M./M.S.)

Become a competent, independent, lifelong learner and music educator.

The master of science (M.S.) and master of music (M.M.) programs in music education prepare graduates to be innovative musicians, effective and engaging educators, and advocates of the arts in the schools and communities they serve.

These dual programs from both the School of Education’s Department of Teaching and Leadership and the Setnor School of Music provide an environment of excellence where one can develop the understanding and skills necessary to become a skilled, independent, lifelong learner and music educator. There are two music education master’s degrees at Syracuse, depending on your existing New York State teacher certification and interests:

The music education: preparation M.S. program is for candidates with an NASM-accredited undergraduate degree but no existing music certification. This program meets the academic requirements for both initial and professional New York State teacher certification in music (all grades).
The music education: professional M.Mus. program is for candidates with existing New York State initial teacher certification in music (all grades) and would like to concentrate in music. This program meets the academic requirements for professional New York State teacher certification in music.

Why Music Education at Syracuse?

Complete your professional degree in one calendar year, or preparation degree in five semesters (including one summer).
Prepares students for teaching diverse students in 21st-century classrooms. From experiences in university classrooms, online, public schools, and community partnerships, you will learn to design inclusive, culturally relevant pedagogy for all students.
Faculty have strong ties to local schools and community partnerships, serving as clinicians, performers, instructors, and regularly providing in-service and professional development workshops.
Participation in the Music Educators Academy and weekly National Association for Music Education events that bring students together with area teachers, educational professionals, and Syracuse University faculty and staff to share professional development opportunities and masterclasses with resident and visiting artists.
Participate in performance and instructional opportunities available in the Setnor School of Music to further elevate your musical concepts and skills
Participate in EDU Sims, which are standardized simulations of common interactions in classroom and school environments to help you identify your strengths and develop your professional skills.
Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad programs around the world. Through the Himan Brown Fellowship, School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.
Small student cohorts and a highly engaged alumni network mean you get to know your teachers and peers who will become your lifelong colleagues.
Because you will be a student in two different schools within Syracuse University, you will receive faculty support and expertise from both the School of Education and the Setnor School of Music, including academic advising support, teacher certification, and job search assistance.

The program’s legacy is the work of a long list of innovative artists and educators. Our graduates are in K-12 schools, preschools, and community music settings including:

Instrumental, choral, and general music teachers and instructors
Teacher leaders, department chairs, or school administrators
Performers, conductors, composers, or music industry professionals.
Further studies in teaching and curriculum, educational leadership, public administration, music performance, music technology, conducting, composition, or another area of interest

Curriculum

Teacher Preparation Performance Data

New York State Teacher Certification Examinations

For the most recent annual institution report, visit Syracuse University’s School of Education.