University of Wisconsin Campus
Master of Music
On Campus
University of Wisconsin Logo
University of Wisconsin
Madison
United States

Music Education

About

The Master of Music in Music Education at the University of Wisconsin is a two year full time program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in music pedagogy, curriculum development, and performance. The curriculum integrates musical theory, instructional methods, and applied teaching practices, emphasizing music pedagogy, performance techniques, curriculum design, and educational research methodology. Students develop competencies to design engaging music programs, assess student learning, and implement effective instructional strategies. Through coursework, ensemble participation, and teaching practicums, learners gain both artistic expertise and hands on experience necessary for careers in music education, school administration, and professional performance.

The program also emphasizes professional development and applied research, offering students opportunities to engage in classroom teaching, collaborative projects, and scholarly research under faculty mentorship. Learners acquire experience in lesson planning, assessment methods, instructional technology, and music performance while enhancing skills in communication, leadership, and creative problem solving. Access to rehearsal spaces, performance venues, and faculty guidance ensures students develop both theoretical understanding and practical proficiency. By the end of the program, graduates are prepared for careers as music educators, ensemble directors, curriculum designers, or further academic study in music education and related fields.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$25,732.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

  • Program Title: Music Education
  • Degree Type: Master of Music
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
  • Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
  • Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
  • Field of Study: Music
  • Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Semester 1 – Foundations in Music Education
• Music Pedagogy and Instructional Strategies
• Applied Music Performance
• Music Theory and Analysis
• Research Methods in Music Education

Semester 2 – Applied Teaching and Curriculum Design
• Curriculum Development for Music Programs
• Assessment Techniques in Music Education
• Ensemble Direction and Conducting
• Applied Research Project

Semester 3 – Specialized Music Education Applications
• Technology in Music Instruction
• Multicultural and Inclusive Music Practices
• Elective Modules in Music Theory or Performance
• Field Practicum in Music Education

Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Development
• Independent Teaching Practicum
• Professional Portfolio Development
• Advanced Ensemble Leadership
• Capstone Research Project

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in music education, performance, curriculum development, and school administration. Many work as music educators, ensemble directors, curriculum specialists, choir or band conductors, or music program coordinators, applying expertise in pedagogy, curriculum design, and performance leadership. The program equips students to develop engaging music programs, assess student learning effectively, and implement innovative teaching strategies. Graduates also gain preparation for leadership roles, collaborative projects, and advanced research or doctoral studies in music education, ensuring they can make meaningful contributions to the field of music instruction.

Why Choose This Program

This program provides a comprehensive and applied approach to music education, enabling students to develop advanced teaching skills and high level performance expertise within a two year curriculum. The coursework emphasizes pedagogy, curriculum design, and applied research, preparing learners to educate and inspire students in diverse educational settings. With teaching practicums, ensemble participation, and faculty mentorship, students gain both practical experience and theoretical understanding. The program’s focus on professional development, applied performance, and instructional innovation ensures graduates are well positioned to excel as music educators, ensemble directors, curriculum specialists, or pursue further academic study in music education.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA