M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy
Chicago, Illinois
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy and Performance is a graduate degree combining advanced performance and academic studies with intensive Suzuki Education curriculum and the development of teaching skills through observations, practica, and apprentice teaching. The program leads to certification through the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA). While specific credit hours can vary based on performance and pedagogy requirements, the program typically involves a significant commitment to both instrumental mastery and pedagogical training. It emphasizes hands-on experience through observation and teaching opportunities, particularly benefiting from MIC's large Suzuki student population. Admissions generally occur in the fall, requiring a successful audition demonstrating high performance aptitude.
NASM Accredited: Yes, Roosevelt University, including its Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) and the music programs offered within it, is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Roosevelt University is a founding member of NASM. This accreditation is a highly regarded mark of quality for music programs in the United States, signifying that the M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy meets rigorous national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, facilities, and student outcomes in music education and performance.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy and Performance is comprehensive, blending high-level instrumental training with specialized pedagogical studies. Core components include advanced applied lessons on the primary instrument, chamber music, and ensemble performance, designed to enhance the student's performance skills. The pedagogical aspect includes dedicated "Suzuki Pedagogy" courses (often numbered I, II, III, IV), which delve into the philosophy, principles, and practical application of the Suzuki Method. These courses are complemented by extensive observations of experienced Suzuki teacher trainers and substantial apprentice teaching experiences, providing practical development of teaching skills. Students also engage in academic studies in music history, theory, and literature to broaden their musical understanding.
Research Focus: The M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy program incorporates a practical and applied research focus, particularly in the realm of music education and pedagogical methodology. While it is not a traditional academic research degree, students engage in systematic observation of teaching, analysis of learning processes, and critical reflection on their own teaching practices. The in-depth study of the Suzuki Method involves understanding its underlying philosophy, developmental psychology, and the effectiveness of its techniques, which can be seen as a form of applied educational research. The program prepares graduates to be thoughtful, evidence-based educators who continually evaluate and refine their teaching approaches based on pedagogical principles and student outcomes.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University's M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy benefits from exceptional industry engagement through its unique collaboration with the Music Institute of Chicago (MIC). MIC is a renowned non-profit community music school with one of the largest and most respected Suzuki Education programs in the U.S., featuring a concentration of Suzuki Teacher Trainers sanctioned by the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA). This partnership provides students with unparalleled opportunities for pedagogical observation and hands-on apprentice teaching. Faculty members are experienced master performers and certified Suzuki Teacher Trainers, many of whom also perform with world-class organizations like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. This deep integration with a leading Suzuki institution ensures graduates are well-connected and prepared for careers in Suzuki music education and performance.
Global Perspective: The M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy at Roosevelt University inherently fosters a global perspective through its focus on the Suzuki Method, which is a worldwide approach to music education. Developed by Shinichi Suzuki in Japan, the method's philosophy and principles are applied globally. Students learn a pedagogy that transcends cultural boundaries, preparing them to teach music to diverse populations internationally. Furthermore, the faculty often have international performance and teaching experience, and the program attracts a diverse student body, enriching classroom discussions with varied musical and cultural perspectives. This global understanding of music education equips graduates to contribute to the international community of Suzuki practitioners.
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 26445
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.M. in Suzuki Pedagogy and Performance from Roosevelt University, offered through the Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) in collaboration with the Music Institute of Chicago (MIC), is a highly specialized degree that prepares instrumentalists not only for advanced performance but also for expert Suzuki Method teaching. This unique program, with its NASM accreditation and direct links to a leading Suzuki institution, positions graduates for impactful careers as artist-teachers.
Suzuki Music Teacher (Private Studio/School): This is the most direct career path. Graduates establish or join private studios, or teach within community music schools (like the Music Institute of Chicago), private schools, or public school Suzuki programs, instructing students of various ages on their primary instrument using the Suzuki Method.
Instrumental Performer (Orchestral/Chamber/Solo): The "Performance" aspect of the degree signifies advanced instrumental skills. Graduates can pursue careers as professional musicians in orchestras (e.g., Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago), chamber ensembles, or as solo performers, often while also teaching.
Music Institute Instructor/Faculty: Graduates are highly qualified to teach at prestigious music institutes and conservatories, offering both instrumental lessons and potentially Suzuki pedagogy courses to aspiring teachers.
Early Childhood Music Educator: The Suzuki philosophy emphasizes early childhood development. Graduates can apply their understanding of nurturing musical talent from a young age to teach general music or pre-instrumental classes for young children.
Music Program Director/Coordinator: With their comprehensive understanding of music education and program development, graduates can lead or coordinate music programs within schools, community centers, or non-profit arts organizations.
Accompanist/Collaborative Pianist: For pianists, the degree enhances skills for accompanying other instrumentalists or vocalists, working in schools, churches, or for professional ensembles.
University/College Music Faculty (Applied/Pedagogy): With further performance achievements or doctoral studies, graduates can pursue university-level positions teaching applied instrument lessons or Suzuki pedagogy courses to music majors.
Workshop/Institute Clinician: Certified Suzuki teachers are often invited to lead workshops and serve as clinicians at Suzuki institutes and conferences worldwide, sharing their expertise and training other teachers.
Music Administrator (Arts Organizations): The holistic nature of the program, including organizational and communication skills, can lead to administrative roles within music schools, symphonies, or other performing arts organizations.
Curriculum Developer (Music Education): Graduates can contribute to the development of music education curricula, particularly those integrating the Suzuki Method or focusing on comprehensive instrumental training for various age groups in educational institutions or publishing companies.
