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School of Arts and Humanities

Music Education Degree - Vocal and Instrumental Music (PK-12)

About the Vocal and Instrumental Music Education Degree

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.

Sample Program of Study

music education degree fact sheet

 

 


best college for music education - 100% employment

Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey

Fast Facts

Degrees offered: B.A. or B.S.
If you choose the Vocal and Instrumental Music field endorsement, you are not required to choose any other endorsements to receive your B.A. or B.S.


Hours required:
For field endorsement: 60
For professional education: 33-36
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120 hours minimum (Education programs may require more)


Popular pairings: Theatre Education (7-12), Coaching (7-12)


Schools: Arts and HumanitiesEducation and Behavioral Sciences


Departments: Music, Educational Foundations and Leadership


Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music, Council of Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP), Nebraska Department of Education


Licensing and Certification: Wayne State academic programs are designed to prepare students for licensure or certification in Nebraska. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Nebraska, please check that state's licensing board to determine their licensing requirements. Authorization may be required from them prior to beginning a clinical or field experience in that state. Learn more.

Nationally Ranked Programs

Wayne State is nationally ranked and recognized for academic excellence, incredible value, successful graduates, and innovative learning.

Most Affordable College in Nebraska, 2022

No. 1 in Nebraska

Most Affordable College in Nebraska, 2022

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Recognized for Excellence

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Music Scholarships

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. The Department of Music offers financial aid to Music majors through a number of scholarships. An audition is required in order to qualify for a music scholarship. You do not need to enroll at Wayne State College to audition.

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 in the Music Education degree program.

music education degree skills

Skills Learned

  • Music theory and ear training
  • Music software: Finale, Cakewalk, 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

 

music education degree careers

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

music education degree employers

Employers

  • Elementary schools
  • Middle schools
  • High schools
  • Music schools
  • Churches
  • Performance groups
  • Theatres

 

Learn From the Best

Our faculty 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 the Music Education degree program.

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your Music Education degree by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.

music education college performances

Performing Groups

Wayne State offers a variety of music performance opportunities throughout the year. Vocal performance groups include Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and Lyrica Treble Choir. Instrumental groups include the Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Mariachi, and small chamber ensembles. Music festivals include Band Day, Honor Band, Honor Choir, Middle School Music Festival, Music Academy, and Summer Music Camp.

music education college opportunities

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.
music education college student teaching

Clinical Practice

As a student majoring in Vocal and Instrumental Music Education, 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.

Take the Next Step

Take the Next Step