Music Education

Starting year one, our students engage in classroom observation and build the leadership skills needed for directing school music programs.

Why Music Education at Valpo?

Grounded in learning, we radiate inspiration. Valpo’s bachelor of music education empowers the professional educators of tomorrow. Our institution – accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music – fosters essential skills for every student in the program through a wide range of teaching opportunities. Starting year one, our students engage in classroom observation and build the leadership skills needed for directing school music programs; by their senior year, they’re immersed in a robust student-teaching experience.

At Valpo, our four-year pathway is grounded in evidence-based practice and hands-on teaching experience, all while nurturing the performer inside. By graduation, you’ll be prepared for licensure across all grade levels (P-12) in general, vocal, and instrumental music – and prepared to shine brightly among a vast network of alumni.

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About Our Music Education Degree

General Information

Career Outcomes

Our music education graduates shine as brilliant educators around the world. Our bright, musical Beacons have gone on to teach across more than 20 states and internationally after graduation.

Careers in Music Education:

Music educator
Music director
Performer or composer
Private music instructor
University professor or administrator

Other music education graduates have continued to pursue advanced studies at reputable institutions like Boston University, Northwestern University, and the University of Notre Dame.

Prerequisites

Students pursuing a degree in music education must complete a supplemental music application and an on-campus or virtual audition with their primary instrument.

Core Requirements

In tune with Valpo’s priorities, the Department of Music is dedicated to fostering the growth of impactful and compassionate music educators. Here, music education extends beyond practice, integrating service, faith, and creative expression. Our universal core – the Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) initiative – pairs well with in-depth study to strengthen communication, encourage critical thinking, and build cultural awareness.

Major Requirements

This degree prepares students for certification as music educators through a comprehensive curriculum and real-world application. Out of a maximum of 136 credits, our program consists of a 39-credit music core and 26-credit music education core.

Music Core: 31 Credits
MUS 109	Musicianship I	2 Cr.
MUS 110	Musicianship II	2 Cr.
MUS 209	Musicianship III	2 Cr.
MUS 210	Musicianship IV	2 Cr.
MUS 163	Music Theory I	3 Cr.
MUS 164	Music Theory II	3 Cr.
MUS 263	Music Theory III	3 Cr.
MUS 264	Music Theory Iv: Post-Tonal	3 Cr.
MUS 201	Development of Western Music	2 Cr.
MUS 213	Basic Conducting	2 Cr.
MUS 300	Keyboard Proficiency	0 Cr.
MUS 400	Concert Attendance	0 Cr.
MUS 499	Music Colloquium	0 Cr.
6 Credits from the Following Options:
MUEN 350	Choirs	1 Cr.
MUEN 352	Bands	1 Cr.
MUEN 354	Orchestra	1 Cr.
1 Credit from the Following Options:
MUEN 357	Small Ensemble Music	0.5 Cr.
MUEN 358	Chamber Music	0.5 Cr.
Music Education Core: 26 Credits
MUAP 375	Performance Level Proficiency III	0 Cr.
Secondary Instrument
MUS 230	Wind/Percussion Methods	3 Cr.
MUS 231	Stringed Instructional Methods	1 Cr.
MUS 239	Voice Instructional Methods	1 Cr.
MUS 312	Scoring and Arranging	2 Cr.
MUS 389	School Music I	3 Cr.
MUS 489	School Music II	3 Cr.
Additional Required Courses: 16 Credits
PSY 110	General Psychology	3 Cr.

College of Arts and Sciences

Program Rankings and Highlights

P-12 Licensure

By the time our music education students graduate, they’re ready for Indiana teacher requirements.

60+

performance opportunities are available throughout the academic year.

100%

of Valpo music education graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation.

Student Success

“One of the great things about Valpo’s music education program is you’re getting the best of both worlds all packed in one major. With the small class sizes, you’re able to have more interactions with your professors and form connections with them while they develop you to be the best musician you can be.”

– Joseph Sleweon ’26

College of Arts and Sciences

Music Scholarships and Performances

scholarships

performances

College of Arts and Sciences

Meet Our Faculty

Professors. Mentors. Friends. At Valparaiso University, you will work on real-life problems alongside faculty leaders with decades of business experience and a true desire to do what’s best for you.

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