Master of Music Program
Program Code: MM-AS
Major Code: MUS

Music Department

Rockwell Hall 203
716-878-6401
National Association of Schools of Music (Accredited)
http://music.buffalostate.edu/

Enrollment in all teacher education programs follows the guidelines for "Admission to Teacher Education Programs" found in this catalog.  Applicants who do not yet meet all admissions criteria should consult with the department.

The Mus.M degree is designed for the in-service music teacher who already possesses an initial Teaching Certificate. The degree program will help students become accomplished reflective educators as indicated by the Buffalo State College Teacher Education Unit Conceptual Framework for advanced programs. This online degree is comprised of courses that are critical to the ongoing professional development of the music teacher. The entire program will require 30 credits and includes 24 credits of required graduate coursework in music history, music theory, music education, and a master’s project or master’s thesis. An additional six credits of elective coursework will include graduate courses chosen from repertoire and ensemble leadership, educational foundations, musical theatre, and a flexible independent study. The department anticipates developing additional elective graduate offerings in the areas of music education, music technology, music history, music theory, composition, and/or performance after the initial implementation of the degree.

Candidates should consult the Teacher Certification website for current seminars and workshops. https://teachercertification.buffalostate.edu/seminars-and-workshops

Admission Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
2. Bachelor's degree in music education from an accredited institution. It must also adhere to the general guidelines for undergraduate competencies in music theory, music history, music performance, conducting, ensemble participation and music education preparation as established by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Students must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in required music courses in their undergraduate degrees.
3. Three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic background, musicianship and teaching effectiveness. This letter should provide evidence of successful teaching experience, academic ability and professionalism.
4. A resume of educational and professional achievements.
5. A scholarly writing sample of no less than 4 and no more than 15 pages using appropriate citations and sources in the area(s) of music theory, music history, music education or educational psychology.
6. Although not required, formal music teaching experience in public or private school systems is preferred.
7. Applicants may be asked to participate in a phone or on-line interview at the discretion of the music education coordinator.
8. Initial Certificate in Music.

In addition, all applicants should review the Admission to a Graduate Program section in this catalog.

Additional Admission Requirements for those Applicants Seeking New York State Professional Certification

1. New York State Initial Certification.  (Those students seeking New York State Professional Certification with teaching certificates/licenses from states other than New York must apply for and be granted a New York State Initial Teaching Certificate.  Requirements for obtaining a New York State Initial Teaching Certificate can be found by visiting the following link: usny.nysed.gov/teachers/)
2. A minimum of one 3-credit hour course involving students with special needs.  Transcripts must be provided that document a course which entails instruction regarding the understanding and development of effective teaching strategies for students with special needs.  Students without documentation of a special needs class will be required to remediate this requirement by taking EXE 100-Individuals with Special Needs, offered online.  This course will not fulfill the course requirements of the Mus. M. in Music Education.  Additional coursework, (currently only offered in traditional format) that fulfill this requirement and also fulfill elective credits for the Mus.M in Music Education degree, include: EDU 577 Teaching Individuals with Exceptionalities and EXE 500 Individuals with Special Needs.)

Please Note: Applications accepted for Summer admission.

Program Requirements