MASTER OF ARTS IN MUSIC EDUCATION
Information and Frequently Asked Questions
How many credits is the MA program?
The Master of Arts degree is 45 credits beyond the baccalaureate.
What courses do these credits include?
The only course specifically required is MUSED 501, Research in Music Education (3 credits). The rest of the program is distributed as follows:
• 12 credits in Music Education Core Coursework. This may include Psychology of Music, Musical Development, Comparative Music Education, or Ethnomusicology in the Schools, among many others.
• 18 credits in a major cognate area. This is an area of specialization chosen by the student. It may include advanced work (400 level or higher) in conducting, performance, ethnomusicology, history, composition or theory. Alternatively, two areas of specialization may be selected with 9 credits taken in each.
• 3-9 credits in a minor cognate area. Often, the minor cognate area is chosen from outside the School of Music. Courses (300 level or higher) may be selected from any area that complements the student’s specialization(s). Popular choices include special education, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and curriculum & instruction.
Is there a foreign language requirement?
There is no foreign language requirement for the MA in Music Education.
What are the finishing options?
Students may select either a thesis or non-thesis option.
The thesis option includes the writing and defense of a major research-based document of original scholarship. The thesis option does not require a final written examination.
The non-thesis requires compilation of a portfolio to be submitted prior to completion of the degree. In addition to papers, the portfolio may include projects, video tapes, audio recordings and other evidence of musical and scholarly development. The exact content of the portfolio is determined by the student and Supervisory Committee. This option requires a final comprehensive written exam and oral presentation.
What is a Supervisory Committee?
The Supervisory Committee--the Committee Chair, in particular--guides the student in identification of cognate areas, selection of coursework and development of the thesis or portfolio. The student must select the committee by the completion of 10 credits. Often, a student will first select a Committee Chair who will then assist in identifying additional committee members. Most committees consist of 3 members, though larger or smaller committees may be formed if appropriate.
Can I get assistance before I select a committee?
Absolutely. Any of the Music Education faculty can assist with questions or concerns and are always available for advising. Students are encouraged to meet with faculty members from the outset of the MA program.
How long does it take to complete the MA?
There are two recommended configurations for completing the MA degree:
• Students may attend full-time during the traditional 3-quarter academic year. In this case, the MA may be completed in two years.
• Students may attend full-time for two summers and the intervening academic year. In this case, the MA may be completed in a little over one calendar year.
Can credits taken outside the MA program be transferred?
Yes. Up to 6 graduate credits taken outside the UW may be applied toward the MA.
Up to 12 credits taken at the UW as a Graduate Non-Matriculating student may be transferred toward the degree. No more than 9 of these may be Summer-Only Non-Matriculating credits.
All decisions on transferred credit are the prerogative of the Supervisory Chair.
Is teaching experience necessary?
In most cases, at least one year of successful teaching experience is necessary for admission to the MA program.