Music Education Degree Program
Are you passionate about teaching music? Would you like to inspire the next generation of young musicians to follow their dreams? If so, then the Bachelor of Music Education is the perfect degree for you. This program leads to certification in either vocal or instrumental music.
Our students engage in a uniquely active and relevant program with outstanding ensembles, excellent faculty, and professional learning experiences. This is a dynamic and comprehensive education that will challenge you, support you, and prepare you in every way. CMU is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). All degrees are taught through the renowned Swinney Conservatory of Music.
The Bachelor of Music Education Completion Program, available only at our Poplar Bluff location, is designed for students in southeast Missouri who have earned an Associate of Arts in Teaching (emphasis in music). After passing an upper-level review and piano proficiency exam, Three Rivers College AAT (Music) graduates can complete a BME on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.
Music Education Degree Program Offerings
This program is offered at the following locations:
Residential Campus
Statewide Centers
About This Program
The Music Education program provides a balance of courses and performance experiences to help students develop skills as musicians and teachers. Students pursue a broad base of general studies, professional education, applied music, music theory, music history, literature, and pedagogy. While students focus their education specifically in one area (vocal or instrumental), with additional study, the degree may be earned with emphasis in both areas. Completion of this degree will also prepare students for success as performers and scholars wanting to pursue graduate work.
As a CMU Music Education major, you will have opportunities to:
- Take courses in conducting, arranging, music theory, music history, aural skills, and pedagogy
- Participate in large ensembles including Concert Band, Jazz Band, Worship Band, Chorale, Conservatory Singers, and Opera
- Participate in small chamber ensembles
- Improve your leadership abilities both as an individual and as a part of an ensemble
- Develop advanced memory, concentration, and performance skills
- Interact and perform with a variety of skilled colleagues, evaluate and critique musical performances, and form new musical ideas
- Learn from distinguished faculty members who bring vast knowledge and experience to education
- Pursue a career in teaching grades K-12 after graduation
Degrees Available
- Bachelor of Music Education, Vocal/Choral Certification - Fayette Campus, Statewide
- Bachelor of Music Education, Instrumental Certification - Fayette Campus, Statewide
Other CMU Music Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Music
- Bachelor of Music Performance - Vocal or Keyboard
- Master of Music Education
- Minor in Music
Admission Requirements
Admission to CMU is selective. Our admission staff carefully reviews and evaluates each application on an individual basis. Please review all requirements prior to applying for admission.
Audition Information (Fayette Campus)
Students can interview and audition with a Swinney Conservatory faculty member during a campus visit. Materials may include All-District or All-State audition music, solos, or etudes. Students may also be asked to sight-read or perform scales. Full tuition scholarships are available through the Central’s Got Talent audition day.
