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Music Education (B.M.)

Inspire the Next Generation of Musicians

Turn your passion for music into a rewarding teaching career by mastering both musical excellence and modern classroom instruction. Offered through the Department of Visual and Performing Arts, the University of Dayton’s Bachelor of Music in Music Education (B.M.) prepares you to inspire the next generation of musicians. You'll receive comprehensive instruction in musicianship and pedagogy, so you can share your love of music with others by learning to teach instrumental, choral and classroom music to students in grades PK-12. You'll learn contemporary methodology to teach a culturally responsive curriculum in any educational setting.

You can personalize your studies to align with your interests and career goals by concentrating in instrumental or vocal music.

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Fast Facts

NASM accredited

National Association of Schools of Music accredited

100% of majors

gain field experience their first year at UD
About the Music Education (B.M.) Program

Why study music education at UD?

Certification to Teach

Students develop the skills to teach band, orchestra, choir or elementary music. They choose a specialization in vocal or instrumental music. Upon graduation, they are certified to teach K-12 music, with a credential that is recognized in 41 states.

Classroom Experience

Through our partnerships with local music educators, students gain classroom experience beginning their first year in a variety of school settings, including Catholic schools, a suburban elementary school and the choral program at Dayton's Stivers School for the Arts. Field experiences also include conducting music at local high schools, coaching and conducting bands for senior adults.

NASM Accredited

The University of Dayton is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Take the Next Step

Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about music education at UD.

Catholic, Marianist Education
UD Is Home
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Experiential Learning

How do I apply to the music education program?

Students seeking admission to any Bachelor of Music degree program must be admitted to the University of Dayton by the Office of Admission and accepted by the Department of Visual and Performing Arts through a process that includes:

  • An interview with a faculty member in the appropriate degree program.
  • Submission to the Department of Visual and Performing Arts of a short essay (500 words or less) that addresses "Why I Want to Be a Music Major."

Transfer students pursuing a major in music education must complete at least 20 of the required semester hours in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts while in residence at the University of Dayton.

Applying to UD

At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.

Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.

Academic Catalog
Scholarships
Audition Information
Admission Information

What is the tuition cost and is financial aid available?

Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.

To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.

A Performing Arts Scholarship is available for music students who participate in audition day. The George Koenig Memorial Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding music education major in the Pride of Dayton marching band.

Transparent Tuition Plan
Undergraduate Tuition
Undergraduate Financial Aid
Degree Requirements and Curriculum

Music Education (B.M.) Degree Requirements and Information
Requirements

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Instrumental Concentration degree requires a total of at least 139 credit hours. The Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Vocal Concentration degree requires a total of at least 139 credit hours.

For both concentrations, this degree also includes requirements from our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP).

About the Degree

The music education degree offers professional training and emphasize advanced musical skills, theoretical foundations and experiential learning in the field, supported by close faculty mentorship. All music majors develop creativity, discipline, teamwork and critical thinking skills that transfer to a wide variety of careers.

Available concentrations

The music education degree has two concentrations available: instrumental and vocal.

Learning Resources
Honors Program

Sample Plan of Study: Instrumental

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2026-27 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations and your personal goals and interests. Please contact the recruitment and admission team (prospective students) or your holistic advisor (current students) with questions.

Semester 1
  • ASI 150 – Introduction to the University Experience
    1
  • HUM 101 – Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times
    3
  • MUS 111 – Theory of Music I
    2
  • MUS 113 – Aural Skills I
    2
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 231 – Introduction to Music Education
    3
  • MUS 336 – Woodwind Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 2
  • HUM 102 – Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good
    3
  • MUS 112 – Theory of Music II
    2
  • MUS 114 – Aural Skills II
    2
  • MUS 195 – Beginning Guitar Class I
    1
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 300 – World Musics and Faith Traditions
    3
  • MUS 337 – Brass Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS 390 – Ensembles (Chamber)
    0.5
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16.5
Semester 3
  • CMM 100 – Principles of Oral Communication
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 211 – Theory of Music III
    2
  • MUS 213 – Aural Skills III
    2
  • MUS 235 – Voice Pedagogy
    1
  • MUS 301 – Understanding Music History in the West
    3
  • MUS 338 – Percussion Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS 390 – Ensembles (Chamber)
    0.5
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16.5
Semester 4
  • EDT 207 – Child and Adolescent in Education
    3
  • EDT 207L – Child and Adolescent in Education Laboratory
    0
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 212 – Theory of Music IV
    2
  • MUS 214 – Aural Skills IV
    2
  • MUS 250 – Second Year Review
    0
  • MUS 302 – Ethics and American Popular Music
    3
  • MUS 339 – String Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS 390 – Ensembles (Chamber)
    0.5
  • MUS 390 OR 493 – 390: Ensembles; 493: University Chorale
    1
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16.5
Semester 5
  • ENG 200 – Writing Seminar II
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 240 – Fundamentals of Conducting
    2
  • MUS 318 – Fundamentals of Arranging
    2
  • MUS 335 – Classroom Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 340 – Music Education for Diverse Student Populations in Inclusive Settings
    3
  • MUS 390 OR 493 – 390: Ensembles; 493: University Chorale
    1
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 6
  • EDT 305 – Philosophy and History of American Education
    3
  • EDT 459 – Critical Reading and Writing in the Content Area
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 332 – Instrumental Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 346 – Instrumental Conducting
    2
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUS 390 – Ensembles (Chamber)
    2
  • MUS 430 – Jazz Pedagogy
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 7
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 331 – Choral Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 390 OR 493 – 390: Ensembles; 493: University Chorale
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUS 431 – Marching Band Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS 450 – Degree Recital
    0
  • CAP Mathematics
    3
  • CAP Natural Science with Lab
    4
  • CAP Social Science
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 18
Semester 8
  • EDT 479 – Student Teaching- Music P-12
    12
  • Total Credit Hours 12
* Choose from MUS 390, 491, 492, 493, 494 or 495.

At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.

Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.

Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.

Transfer and Exam Credits
Academic Admission FAQ
Learning Resources
Honors Program

Sample Plan of Study: Vocal

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2026-27 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations and your personal goals and interests. Please contact the recruitment and admission team (prospective students) or your holistic advisor (current students) with questions.

Semester 1
  • ASI 150 – Introduction to the University Experience
    1
  • HUM 101 – Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times
    3
  • MUS 111 – Theory of Music I
    2
  • MUS 113 – Aural Skills I
    2
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 231 – Introduction to Music Education
    3
  • MUS 336 – Woodwind Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 2
  • HUM 102 – Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good
    3
  • MUS 112 – Theory of Music II
    2
  • MUS 114 – Aural Skills II
    2
  • MUS 195 – Beginning Guitar Class I
    1
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 300 – World Musics and Faith Traditions
    3
  • MUS 337 – Brass Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 3
  • CMM 100 – Principles of Oral Communication
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 211 – Theory of Music III
    2
  • MUS 213 – Aural Skills III
    2
  • MUS 235 – Voice Pedagogy
    1
  • MUS 301 – Understanding Music History in the West
    3
  • MUS 338 – Percussion Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS 390 – Ensembles (Instrumental)
    1
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 4
  • EDT 207 – Child and Adolescent in Education
    3
  • EDT 207L – Child and Adolescent in Education Laboratory
    0
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 212 – Theory of Music IV
    2
  • MUS 214 – Aural Skills IV
    2
  • MUS 250 – Second Year Review
    0
  • MUS 302 – Ethics and American Popular Music
    3
  • MUS 339 – String Pedagogy
    2
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUS 408 – Lyric Diction & Literature
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 5
  • ENG 200 – Writing Seminar II
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 240 – Fundamentals of Conducting
    2
  • MUS 318 – Fundamentals of Arranging
    2
  • MUS 335 – Classroom Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 340 – Music Education for Diverse Student Populations in Inclusive Settings
    3
  • MUS Elective
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUE Elective
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 18
Semester 6
  • EDT 305 – Philosophy and History of American Education
    3
  • EDT 459 – Critical Reading and Writing in the Content Area
    3
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 332 – Instrumental Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 345 – Choral Conducting
    2
  • MUS 390 OR 493 – 390: Ensembles; 493: University Chorale
    1
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUE Elective
    2
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 7
  • MUS 200 – Flyer Arts Showcase
    0
  • MUS 202 – Professional Development Workshop
    0
  • MUS 331 – Choral Music Methods
    3
  • MUS 399 – Performance Studies
    2
  • MUS 450 – Degree Recital
    0
  • MUE Elective
    2
  • CAP Mathematics
    3
  • CAP Natural Science with Lab
    4
  • CAP Social Science
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 17
Semester 8
  • EDT 479 – Student Teaching- Music P-12
    12
  • Total Credit Hours 12
* Choose from MUS 390, 491, 492, 493, 494 or 495.

At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.

Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.

Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.

Transfer and Exam Credits
Academic Admission FAQ
Learning Resources
Honors Program

Transfer and Exam Credits

Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.

Transfer and Exam Credits

Success After Graduation

Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.

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Explore Student Outcomes
Fast Facts

$61,279 average

starting salary for recent UD graduates across all majors

97% success rate

after graduation across all majors

Beyond the Classroom: The UD Music Education Experience

Learning by Doing

Music education majors can develop their conducting skills with the New Horizons Band and the Ohio Collegiate Music Educators Association gives students opportunities to explore the field.

Explore Opportunities and Activities

Roger Glass Center for the Arts

The Roger Glass Center for the Arts elevates the arts on campus and provides greater connection with the Dayton community through a variety of performances and art exhibits.

Explore the Roger Glass Center for the Arts

Music Ensembles

A variety of instrumental and vocal ensembles give you opportunities to perform — and hear — your own works brought to life.

Explore Ensembles

Dean’s Summer Fellowship

Work under the guidance of a full-time faculty mentor on your self-directed research project as a Dean's Summer Fellow.

Explore the Dean’s Summer Fellowship
Walk. Run. Fly. Soar.

Success is a Journey

At the University of Dayton, you'll have a supportive community dedicated to fueling your success. Through guaranteed, real-world experience, you'll build the skills and confidence needed to be workforce ready.

Student Support
Community
Experiential Learning
Outcomes
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Ready to Study Music Education?

Let’s create your future. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.

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