Music Education Instrumental Emphasis
Bachelor of Music in Music Education with Instrumental Emphasis
CIP 50.0901
ACCREDITED BY: National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
The Bachelor of Music in Music Education at Murray State University prepares musician-educators for successful careers as certified PK–12 music educators. Our students are committed to developing excellence as both musicians and professional educators, combining rigorous musical study with meaningful, hands-on preparation for today’s diverse classrooms.
The program provides a comprehensive curriculum addressing both the theoretical and practical applications of musicianship and music education. Students develop skills in lesson planning, educational psychology, assessment, classroom management, with an emphasis on creating engaging and accessible music-learning experiences for all students. Our program is intentionally student focused, with teacher candidates mentored by music faculty who bring decades of experience as performers, educators, and professionals in the field.
A distinctive strength of the program is that all music education courses are taught by music faculty rather than faculty within the education department. This approach allows our preservice teachers to develop a deeper understanding of educational theory specifically within the context of music instruction. Students learn not only how to teach, but how to think as music educators and translate their own musicianship into meaningful learning experiences for their students.
Performance is an essential component of the Murray State experience. Students have numerous opportunities to perform in large ensembles, small ensembles, solo work, and student-led performances. Our Collegiate Chapter of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME Collegiate) is an active and engaged organization. Members participate in Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) activities, attend professional conferences, organize workshops, and engage in opportunities to work directly with practicing music educators and students in area schools. These experiences help teacher candidates build professional networks and connect their university coursework to the realities of the music classroom. Speakers and presenters are brought to campus monthly for chapter meetings, either in person or virtually, providing students with exposure to a wide range of perspectives, teaching practices, professional experiences, and current issues in music education.
At Murray State University, we believe that exceptional music educators are first exceptional musicians, thoughtful educators, and lifelong learners. Our program brings these qualities together in a supportive community where students are challenged to grow, encouraged to lead, and prepared to make a meaningful difference through music education.
Learn more about bands at Murray State
Total Curriculum Requirements (139 Hours)
University Studies Requirements (32-35 Hours)
(See University Studies)
Music Courses Requirements (67 Hours)
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Six successful semesters of MUS 101 are required. To successfully complete the course each semester the student must gain credit for 10 approved recitals and have no more than one absence from required assembly programs.
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All BM Education majors are expected to fulfill the Aural Skills, Theory, and Keyboard requirement. Students may be exempted from one of the technique classes upon satisfactory demonstration of teaching proficiency as determined by the instructor of the course.
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A minimum of seven semesters of specified study to equal fourteen hours in applied music is required as are periodic jury and proficiency examinations. A half-recital must be given in the final semester of study. Keyboard majors selecting the Instrumental Emphasis will study a secondary instrument for 4 consecutive semesters for 1 credit hour each semester.
Professional Education (33 Hours)
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Application for admission to Teacher Education begins with Exploring the Music Education Profession (MUS 180).
The CASE exam must be taken upon completion of MUS 180 or a student may use ACT composite score of 22 or higher, or use individual ACT scores of ACT Reading 20, ACT English 18, ACT Math 19. (For complete requirements, see: Teacher Education Program)
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MUS 480, and SEC 420 are taken concurrently, two semesters before student teaching.
EDU 485 and SEC 422 are taken concurrently, one semester before student teaching.
Ensembles (7 Hours)
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Students are required to participate in a major ensemble involving their primary instrument concurrent with every semester of applied music study. Major ensembles include Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, University Orchestra, Concert Choir, Vox Lumina, Una Voce. Some performance areas have more specific requirements. Students should consult their advisors and applied lesson teachers for detailed requirements.
additional information
The requirements listed above are an example of what is applicable to most students entering Murray State University at the present time. Criteria as they may relate to individual students may vary. The primary source is the Undergraduate Bulletin applicable at the time of the student enrollment.