Music Education at Penn State
Masters of Music Education - M.M.E.
Program Goals
The master of Music Education degree program is designed to provide candidates with (1) a deeper level of musical skill and understanding, (2) an increased knowledge and skill in the pedagogy of music teaching, and (3) an appreciation and awareness of current issues in music education and their implications for research and practice.
The courses and experiences in this degree program are most meaningful for teachers who have taught music in K-12 settings beyond the student teaching experience. Therefore, we strongly encourage potential applicants to acquire a teaching position and gain some teaching experience prior to pursuing the M.M.E.
Program Description
This program requires a total of 30 credits. At least one-half of the 30 credits must be 500-level courses, and at least 20 credits must be taken at University Park. An oral examination in the major area must be passed near the completion of the program.
Program and Admission Information
Graduate Student handbooks can be found on the School of Music's web site or contact music-gr-adm@psu.edu for more information.
Current Full-time Master's students:
David Bridgewater is a candidate for the Master’s in Music Education program at Penn State University. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education degree after graduating from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with honors in 2006. While attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he studied euphonium under Dr. Gary Bird and participated in Symphonic Band, Marching Band, Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble, and University Chorale. In addition to his musical studies, David was involved with music organizations which include PCMEA and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. During the 2006-2007 school year, he taught general music, instrumental lessons and was the assistant high school marching band director with Bridgeton Public Schools in Bridgeton, New Jersey. David began his graduate studies at Penn State University in the summer of 2007 with Dr. Richard Bundy and has worked as a volunteer assistant with the Penn State Marching Blue Band. He is currently working on his master’s thesis and intends to complete his degree in the Spring of 2009.