Master of Arts (MA) Music Education
Overview
What to expect
The Master of Arts in Music Education is one-year course-intensive degree that provides core training in music education research and philosophy. Joining a diverse cohort of peers, students receive instruction focusing on social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. The program offers the option to write a major essay and culminates in comprehensive written and oral examinations.
Why it stands out
Exceptional teaching has made the Faculty of Music a national leader in music education for over 75 years. Caring instructors with deep professional experience as educators, performers, entrepreneurs, and researchers prepare students for leadership roles in music and music education. Students also benefit from opportunities to engage with national and international scholars during the Faculty of Music’s annual Music Education Colloquium series.
Who it's for
The program is primarily (but not exclusively) designed for applicants with prior teaching experience at primary, junior, intermediate, or senior levels in schools and diverse teaching and learning contexts. It appeals to researchers intent on pursuing a PhD in Music Education and music education professionals seeking to balance skills development and exploration of social justice and other trends in music education.
Outcomes
Opportunities for study
Learning occurs in small classes balancing theoretical and practical instruction. Students have opportunities to specialize in choral music, instrumental music, elementary or secondary music education, or a diversity of musical practices. As a comprehensive school, the Faculty of Music offers exceptional depth and breadth across course offerings. Students have access to paid positions as music education teaching assistants.
Opportunities after graduation
Many graduates teach in community organizations or in educational institutions, from preschools to high schools. Some build careers as artist-teachers or as leaders in arts organizations in which a broad musical background is an asset.
Postgraduate opportunities
Successful graduates qualify to apply for entry into the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education program at the University of Toronto or another university.
Curriculum
MA in Music Education
- Research Methods in Music Education
- Philosophical Foundations of Music Education
- Electives
- Comprehensive Exam
Core Courses
Core courses totaling one full credit address the subject’s philosophical foundations and the qualitative and quantitative methods of conducting research in the field.
Electives
Students choose approved electives totaling three full credits from the graduate-level offerings of the Music Faculty or other faculties. At least half of these electives (totaling 1.5 full credits) will be in music education.
Complete admission requirements can be found at Application Materials.
Complete information on how to apply can be found at Applying.
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