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/academics/visual-performing-arts/departments/mtd/programs/music-education-masters-degree

Music Education (MA)

Share Your Passion for Music with a Music Education Masters Degree from Marywood

Graduates of this program are eligible to teach music PK-12 (vocal or instrumental programs) and to work in certain college and university settings. Upon completion of the MA in music and Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements for teacher certification, graduates are eligible to apply for Level II permanent teacher certification. Students successfully completing graduate degree programs in music education become leaders within the profession, mentor and supervise beginning music teachers, and may pursue further academic studies at the doctoral level.  

The Music Educator:

  • is passionate about teaching music to others

  • is an excellent musician

  • is patient and understanding

  • is in good physical and emotional health

The Discipline

Elevate your passion for music and education with a graduate degree in Music Education from Marywood University. Our program offers a variety of specialized tracks to help you become a well-rounded music educator. Choose from core areas such as PK-12 general music, or instrumental string instruction, where you'll focus on developing healthy playing techniques that foster long-term success and performance. For those seeking a more tailored path, we also offer advanced studies in curriculum design, instruction, and music supervision. At Marywood, you’ll gain the expertise to inspire and shape future musicians while ensuring a sustainable, healthy approach to music education.

The 36-credit program in music education can be completed within 2 years (7 semesters) via online/HyFlex courses taken in fall, spring, and summer sessions. Candidates entering the degree program must demonstrate successful prior teaching at either the elementary or secondary level. Capstone options for the MA degree: master’s thesis; professional contribution; or lecture-recital as part of the degree requirements.

Program Highlights

Build Stronger, Healthier String Musicians

Elevate your teaching and empower the next generation of healthy, expressive string players with our Master of Arts (music education) specialization in Healthy String Playing. As string teachers, we play a vital role in equipping students with the skills to perform with ease, comfort, and full artistic freedom.

High rates of pain and injury among both professional and amateur musicians highlight the urgent need for informed, preventive pedagogy at the earliest stages. School string programs provide a unique opportunity to embed these principles from the beginning, ensuring that healthy string playing is accessible to every student.

By integrating this specialized training into your teaching, you can help students develop sustainable, lifelong music-making while strengthening your impact as an educator.

Lead with knowledge. Teach with confidence. Shape healthier musical futures.

Deepen Your Expertise in General Music

Transform your teaching and broaden your impact with our Master of Arts (music education). General music classrooms reach more students than any other music learning environment, giving you the unique power to create meaningful music-making opportunities for every child. With the right preparation, general music can offer the same depth, rigor, and artistic engagement as any ensemble—while fostering creativity, curiosity, and lifelong musicianship.

Our program equips you with innovative, research-informed strategies to design active, engaging lessons where students develop real musicianship through movement, singing, playing, improvisation, and creative exploration. You’ll learn to build inclusive, student-centered classrooms that support diverse learners and cultivate authentic musical understanding.

Whether you are advancing your current teaching or preparing for a leadership role, this degree strengthens your pedagogical foundation and expands your professional possibilities. Elevate your practice and inspire the next generation of confident, capable, and joyful music makers.

Advance Your Career with Personalized Music Education Mentorship

Marywood’s Master of Arts (music education) stands apart through the expertise and mentorship of its internationally recognized performers and pedagogues. Our distinguished faculty bring a level of specialization that combines deep professional experience with innovative, research-informed approaches to music teaching and learning.

What truly sets this program apart is the quality of relationships students build with their professors. Small classes and a highly personalized learning environment allow faculty to tailor coursework to students’ interests, strengths, and career goals, ensuring the development of unique skills that will define success as an educator. Whether you are advancing your classroom practice, expanding your musicianship, or preparing for leadership in the field, you’ll receive individual guidance and meaningful support every step of the way.

Join a graduate community where your potential is recognized, your ideas are valued, and your growth as a musician-teacher is the center of the experience

A closeup image of a female Marywood Orientation Leader speaking to a group of people.

I have been so fortunate to travel the country and even the world with the Marywood bands. My musicianship has skyrocketed and my leadership and social skills have blossome...

Harlow Alexander '19

Top Career Paths

  • Music Professor

  • Band/ Ensemble Director

  • Music Teacher

  • Music Advisor

Top Employers

  • School Districts

  • Colleges and Universities

  • Music Industries

  • Music Studios

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Explore the vibrant community and endless opportunities that await you at Marywood. Attend one of our special events designed specially for you to learn more about Marywood's degree programs, dedicated faculty, and welcoming campus.

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Centers of Excellence

Marywood University hosts three academic Centers of Excellence on campus; The Center for Law, Justice and Policy, The Center for Urban Studies, and The Mother Theresa Maxis, IHM Center. Each center provides students with the tools and resources to excel in their academic endeavors, fostering a dynamic environment where they can engage deeply with their respective fields of study and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

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Accreditation

Marywood University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSHE). / ADDRESS / 3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West, Philadelphia, PA 19104. | Phone: (267) 284-5000