M.Ed. in Special Education
Mississippi College, located in Clinton, Mississippi, offers a comprehensive Master of ...
M.M. in Music Education
Clinton, Mississippi
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.M. in Music Education at Mississippi College focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of music's role in education. It allows students to delve into the theoretical and practical aspects of teaching music, from exploring the psychological and sociological impacts of music to understanding its historical and philosophical underpinnings. The program aims to enhance both the musical artistry and pedagogical effectiveness of its students, ensuring they can inspire and educate future generations through music.
Curriculum: The 30-semester-hour curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in music theory, history, and education. Core courses (9 semester hours) include "Music Research and Writing," "Topics in Music Theory," and "Topics in Music History," which provide essential scholarly and theoretical grounding. The Music Education component (12 semester hours) delves into specialized areas such as "Sociology and Psychology of Music Education" and "History and Philosophy of Music Education." Students then select 9 semester hours of electives from 6000-level music or related coursework, with an advisor's approval, allowing for some customization. As a capstone, students can choose between a Project/Thesis option (6 semester hours) or a combination of "Curriculum Development" and a music education elective (6 semester hours). For those seeking an upgraded Mississippi Class AA Educator License, specific professional education courses and PRAXIS exams are required.
Research Focus: The M.M. in Music Education at Mississippi College incorporates a significant research focus. The required course "Music Research and Writing" explicitly trains students in the methodologies of scholarly inquiry in music. Furthermore, the option to complete a Project/Thesis demonstrates a commitment to fostering original research. Students undertaking this option will engage in in-depth investigation of a specific topic in music education, culminating in a substantial written work. Even for those choosing the non-thesis option, the curriculum's emphasis on the "foundations of music education" through courses like "History and Philosophy of Music Education" requires critical engagement with existing scholarship and theoretical frameworks, promoting a research-informed approach to teaching.
Industry Engagement: The M.M. in Music Education program at Mississippi College is deeply engaged with the K-12 education industry, as its primary goal is to prepare highly qualified music educators for elementary and secondary schools. The curriculum is designed to meet the professional development needs of current teachers and to align with state licensure requirements (e.g., Mississippi Class AA Educator License). Faculty members often bring practical experience as music educators, conductors, and performers, providing students with valuable insights into the realities of the profession. Graduates are prepared for roles that directly impact student learning in music classrooms and contribute to the broader educational landscape.
Global Perspective: The M.M. in Music Education inherently offers a global perspective by fostering a comprehensive understanding of music across diverse cultures and historical periods. Music itself is a universal language, and effective music education often involves exploring global musical traditions, understanding the role of music in different societies, and appreciating diverse aesthetic values. While the program's pedagogical focus may be primarily within the U.S. educational system, the core curriculum in music history, theory, and the philosophy of music education encourages a broad worldview. This enables graduates to design inclusive music curricula that celebrate global musical diversity and prepare students for an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Clinton, Mississippi
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 13856
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% 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 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 52 or higher.
Mississippi College is making quality education affordable for students from around the world. To support this goal, the college offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students, helping to reduce the overall cost of tuition and living expenses.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. These awards are determined by evaluating high school GPA (or equivalent), standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), and other academic achievements. The scholarship amount varies, with awards ranging from partial to significant tuition discounts, which are renewable based on academic performance.
Presidential and Dean’s Scholarships: Highly qualified international students may receive Presidential or Dean’s Scholarships, two of the most prestigious awards offered by Mississippi College. These scholarships are based on exceptional academic credentials and leadership potential and can cover a substantial portion of tuition costs.
A Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Education from Mississippi College is a specialized graduate degree designed to elevate the expertise of music educators. This program goes beyond basic teaching credentials, providing a deeper dive into advanced musicianship, pedagogical theories, and the historical and philosophical foundations of music education.
Lead Music Teacher/Department Head (K-12): Take on leadership roles within a school's music department, overseeing curriculum development, mentoring other music teachers, managing resources, and leading various ensembles (band, choir, orchestra).
Music Curriculum Specialist/Coordinator: Work for school districts or educational organizations to design, implement, and evaluate comprehensive music curricula, ensuring alignment with educational standards and fostering innovative teaching practices across multiple schools.
Community College Music Instructor: Teach introductory music courses, music appreciation, music theory, or ensemble performance at community colleges, sharing their advanced knowledge with a diverse student population.
Choral/Band/Orchestra Director (Advanced/Collegiate): Lead and conduct advanced musical ensembles at the high school or potentially collegiate level (often as an adjunct), guiding students to high levels of musical performance and understanding.
Music Education Consultant: Provide expert advice and professional development to schools, districts, or educational organizations on best practices in music education, technology integration, curriculum design, and assessment strategies.
Arts Administrator (Education-Focused): Manage educational programs and outreach initiatives for performing arts organizations, symphonies, opera companies, or community music schools, bridging artistic excellence with educational access.
Private Music Instructor (Advanced Studio): Establish or grow a private music studio, teaching advanced performance techniques, music theory, and preparing students for auditions and college programs, leveraging their master's-level expertise.
Music Education Researcher: While often requiring a Ph.D. for independent academic research, an M.M. provides a strong foundation for assisting in research projects at universities or educational research institutions focused on music pedagogy, learning, and assessment.
Church Music Director/Minister of Music: Lead comprehensive music programs within religious institutions, including conducting choirs, instrumental ensembles, planning worship services, and overseeing music education for various age groups.
Higher Education Teaching Assistant/Adjunct Faculty: Gain experience teaching at the university level as a teaching assistant or adjunct instructor, particularly if considering further doctoral studies or a career in postsecondary music education.
