Music Education Major
Major
To teach is to shape the future. At Bethel, we believe in the value of a music education degree and pride ourselves on a successful teacher preparation program. By establishing your technique in your primary instrument and merging your skills with best practice in teaching and pedagogy, you will leave this program prepared to bring your skills to the real world with Pre-K through 12th grade students.
BU music education students can focus their program track and subsequent licensure in vocal and general music, instrumental and general music, or both. We are committed to developing well-rounded teachers who are outstanding musicians, ready to make their mark on the next generation of music-makers. By building relationships and fine-tuning performance skills, you’ll be ready to fulfill your mission as a music educator.
12- to 15-week
student teaching placements
11:1
student-to-faculty ratio
100%
of students receive some form of financial assistance
Music Education Major
Bachelor of Arts (BA) Program – 4 years
Courses include:
- Music Theory and History
- Conducting
- Classroom Management
- Education Techniques and Theories
- Instrumental and/or Choral Methods
Prepare for an exciting future as a/an:
- K-12 Music educator
- Collegiate music professor
- Music director
- Private teacher
Recent graduates have found employment as a:
- K-12 Music Educator (public and private)
- Church Music Director
- Private Teacher
- Band Director
- Orchestra Conductor
- Choir Director
You’ll gain career-shaping skills such as:
- How to teach music effectively to a wide range of ages
- Advanced music theory, reading, and aural skills
- Piano skills
- Curriculum planning
- Music literature and repertoire
Students Teaching
All students nearing completion of the music education program participate in Student Teaching during their senior year. Our program also offers many opportunities for tutoring and for practicum experiences in local classrooms.
Audition for the Bethel University Music Department
All students interested in pursuing a music major or minor at Bethel University must complete an audition. There are three ways to do this:
- Schedule an audition at Bethel University.
- Schedule a live video audition appointment.
- Submit a video audition.
Music Education Highlights
The music education degree prepares students in grades K-12 choral and general education, instrumental and general education, and a combination choral, general and instrumental education. Bethel-prepared teachers are in demand as we have nearly a 100% placement rate. Our reputation, accreditation and up-to-date curriculum make music education a great choice for those who wish to invest in the lives of students. Some of our students go on to graduate school, but most are teaching in area schools.
Also Consider These Areas of Study
As you’re pursuing a degree in music education, you may explore pairing it with one of the following degrees:
Still deciding?
Financial Aid
Music Scholarships are available for intended music majors, minors and talented elective students. An application for admission should be submitted before scheduling an audition.
Meet Our Faculty
Stephen Martin, D.C.M.
Chair of Music Department; Associate Professor of Music
Stephen Allen
Adjunct Trumpet Instructor, Director - Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo
Becky Branch, M.A., C.M.H.C.
Coordinator of Fine Arts Programs; Box Office Manager; Adjunct Professor, Music
Vicky Garrett
Adjunct Faculty, Music; Artist-in-Residence
Becki Graves
Admission Advisor, BU-X; Director of Worship Arts Program
Connect with Us on Social Media
Take the Next Step
Take the first step toward your Bethel University degree in music education. Visit campus, apply, request information or ask questions about financial aid.