Vocal and Instrumental Music Education (PK-12)
About
You care about the beauty of music, and you have a passion for teaching. You want children to discover the joy and the outlet that music provides. With a degree in music education from Wayne State College, you’ll be able to teach it all – elementary music, and directing choirs, orchestras, and bands in grades PK-12. With the field endorsement to teach all areas of music, you’ll have even more opportunities to get a job and become a music teacher in a school setting.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Nationally Ranked Programs
Wayne State is nationally ranked and recognized for academic excellence, incredible value, successful graduates, and innovative learning.
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world.
Skills Learned
- Music theory and ear training
- Music software: Finale, Sonar, Pyware 3D, and Audacity
- Playing piano, guitar, woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion
- Instrumental and choral conducting
- History and literature of music
- Performance with large and small ensembles
- Vocal and instrumental instruction techniques
- Classroom management and leadership
- Human development and cognition
- Communication
- Project and time management
- Adaptability / flexibility
- Self-motivation
Possible Careers
- Music teacher
- Band director
- Choir director
- Orchestra director
- Composer
- Conductor
- Songwriter
- Private instructor
- Music producer / editor
- Music education consultant
- Talent scout / manager
- Education consultant
- Church musician
Employers
- Elementary schools
- Middle schools
- High schools
- Churches
- Performance groups
- Churches
- Talent agencies
- Self-employment
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished, with 86% of our full-time faculty having the highest degree in their field. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in a personalized setting with a friendly atmosphere.
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, art shows, internships, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
- National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
- Kappa Kappa Psi (Honorary band fraternity)
- Wayne Student Education Association of Nebraska (WSEAN)
- Student Council for Exceptional Children (SCEC)
- Music Teachers National Association
Performing Groups
Wayne State offers a variety of music performance opportunities throughout the year. Vocal performance groups include Concert Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Madrigal Singers, and Women's Choir. Instrumental groups include the Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Chamber Music, and Mariachi Ensemble. Music Festivals include Band Day, Honor Band, Middle School Music Festival, and Honor Choir.
Opportunities
- Northeast Nebraska Teacher Academy (NENTA) - Develop your classroom skills and get paid at the same time. As a NENTA participant, you’ll meet with mentor teachers on a weekly basis to ensure your growth and success as a teacher.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Clinical Practice
As a vocal and instrumental music education major, you will complete a semester of clinical practice in a school district chosen with the help of your advisor. During this semester, you’ll work closely with an experienced music teacher to gain classroom experience. Internships are not required as part of this program; however, Career Services is available to help you find employment opportunities.
