Bachelor of Music, Concentration in Music Education, B.Mu.

School of Music

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The Georgia State University Bachelor of Music with a Music Education concentration offers a comprehensive and enriching program for aspiring educators passionate about fostering musical growth and learning in diverse educational settings.

This concentration prepares students to teach music in schools or other group settings, covering early childhood through adulthood. Graduates are eligible for a Georgia teaching certificate in K-12 music. In addition to developing performance skills, students study child development, learning theories and various teaching methods specific to music education.

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in music performance and music reading, coupled with a genuine interest in sharing their love of music with others.

Program Highlights

Nationally Recognized

Our graduates excel with a 100% job placement rate and a 100% pass rate for EdTPA. As an esteemed institution, we have been recognized for our exemplary program by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Additionally, we have received the National Music in Education Award from the College Music Society for our innovative Sound Learning outreach program. Our faculty are at the forefront of music education research, providing research-driven instruction to our students.

Downtown Connections

The downtown location fosters connections with local music ensembles and venues like Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Red Light Cafe, City Winery, Atlanta Opera, nearby theaters, schools and churches. Alumni, faculty and students actively participate in the thriving music scene, performing in various professional groups within the city.

Guest Artists and Ensembles

The School of Music hosts renowned educators and professional musicians who offer concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students. We also have three resident ensembles: Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL.

College to Career

Students are provided extensive teaching opportunities with local schools in the metro-Atlanta area that empower aspiring educators to gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact in classrooms, schools and communities. Many students secure employment in neighboring schools and churches, acquiring valuable real-world experience in their field prior to graduation.

Career Outlook

A degree in Music Education from Georgia State offers graduates a plethora of rewarding career opportunities in the field of music and education.

With comprehensive training in music theory, pedagogy and conducting, graduates can become music educators in K-12 schools, sharing their passion for music and nurturing the next generation of musicians.
Pursue higher education and become a music professor, teaching aspiring music educators at colleges and universities.
Offer private music lessons or direct music ensembles in community-based music schools, providing musical education to individuals of all ages.

Composer with a guitar

Program Details

Prospective students applying for any Bachelor of Music degree program in any concentration (Performance, Composition, Jazz Studies or Music Education) must perform a live audition. Students applying for the Bachelor of Science degree in either concentration (Music Management or Music Production & Audio Recording,) must either perform a live audition or submit a digital portfolio before beginning first-year coursework in music.

Audition requirements, important deadlines and audition dates can be found on our How to Apply page.

To be considered for admission, students applying to the School of Music at Georgia State University are required to complete a separate application through the Acceptd platform.

The Music Education concentration at GSU offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum for aspiring music educators. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that encompass pedagogy, curriculum development, music theory, ensemble conducting and music technology. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through field observations and teaching practicum, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world classroom settings. Students also participate in ensemble performance and gain a deep understanding of music repertoire and conducting techniques. The program fosters a student-centered and inclusive approach to music education, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to inspire and educate future generations of musicians. Graduates of our Music Education program emerge as competent and passionate educators, prepared to make a positive impact in schools and communities through the transformative power of music.

For complete degree requirements:

Music Education Concentration Emphasis in Choral/General

Music Education Concentration Emphasis in Instrumental

Prospective educators in the initial teacher preparation program are required to successfully complete the state-mandated GACE Content Assessments in Music, demonstrating their mastery of Georgia’s music education standards and proficiency in teaching music.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees: There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
Honoring the continuing traditions of music-making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.