Music Education Master’s Programs Online: Review Top Schools

As a busy music educator, you may wonder if earning a master’s degree is worth the effort. An online Master of Education in Music Education offers the flexibility to meet that requirement while enhancing your skills, exploring new teaching techniques, and increasing your earning potential. In this guide, you’ll discover top online MEd in Music Education programs that can help you hit a high note in your career.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Kenya McCullum

Graduate Ed.Student SuccessOnline Learning

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Updated: 06/02/2026

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Inside Real Programs
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FAQs
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Music Education Salary Potential with a Master's Degree
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Inside 3 Popular Online Music Education Master’s Programs

Below, we profile three accredited online master’s programs in music education offered by U.S. universities. Each overview highlights program structure, curriculum focus, delivery format, and admissions expectations to help you understand what to look for as you compare options.

Boston University — Master of Music in Music Education

Boston University’s online Master of Music in Music Education is a fully online program built around a theory-to-practice approach. Designed for working educators, the program emphasizes advanced pedagogy, music education research, and curriculum development.

The 32-credit curriculum blends coursework in research, teaching methods, music theory, and electives. Courses are delivered in intensive seven-week sessions, allowing students to take one course at a time and complete the program in as little as 18 months.

Note: This program does not lead to initial teaching licensure and is best suited for already licensed educators.

Duration: 18 to 24 months

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $1,042 per credit

Admissions Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in music or music education
Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
Current or recent music teaching experience (recommended)
Transcripts, statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation

Kent State University — Master of Music in Music Education

Kent State University offers one of the largest online music education master’s programs in the U.S. The program is designed specifically for active K–12 music teachers and focuses on strengthening instructional practice, curriculum design, and leadership skills.

The 32-credit, part-time curriculum covers advanced teaching methods, contemporary issues in music education, and research. Courses are delivered in seven-week segments, allowing students to focus on one subject at a time. The program concludes with an individualized capstone project tied to the student’s professional interests.

Duration: 23 months

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $655 per credit

Admissions Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in music education or a related field
Teaching license or documented music teaching experience

University of Florida — Master of Music in Music Education

The University of Florida’s online Master of Music in Music Education combines research-based instruction with practical classroom strategies. The 33-credit curriculum emphasizes music pedagogy, psychology of music learning, instructional design, and the use of technology in music education.

Courses are taught by the same faculty who teach on campus and are designed for working teachers. Graduates are prepared to apply new techniques in their classrooms, pursue leadership roles, or continue on to doctoral study.

Duration: 2 to 3 years (part-time)

Mode: 100% online

Cost: $600 per credit

Admissions Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in music education or music (with teaching experience)
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose

Pricing the Online Music Education Master’s

Tuition for an online music education master’s degree varies by institution but is typically charged per credit hour. Most programs require 30 to 33 credits.

Public universities generally offer lower tuition than private institutions, though exceptions exist. Total tuition often ranges from $18,000 to $33,000, excluding additional fees. Many online programs keep fees minimal, and out-of-state students often pay the same rate as in-state residents.

While online students avoid relocation and commuting costs, it’s still important to budget for internet access, a reliable computer, and potential music software or instrument maintenance. Financial aid, scholarships, teacher discounts, and district tuition reimbursement programs may also be available.

School	No. of Credits	Cost per Credit	Total Tuition
Ball State University	30	$464	$15,240
Ohio University	30	$508	$13,920
Eastern Washington University	48	$325	$15,600

FAQs for Prospective Music Education Master’s Students

Q: Is an online MEd in Music Education credible and accredited?

A: Yes, as long as you choose a program at a regionally accredited college or university. Many online programs also carry specialized accreditation in education and music. For example, music education programs might be accredited by NASM (National Association of Schools of Music) and CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation).

Employers recognize accredited online degrees are as valid as those earned on campus. So, be sure to verify a school’s accreditation status (usually listed on their website) before enrolling.

Q: What are the typical admissions requirements? Do I need a teaching license or music degree to apply?

A: Admissions requirements for online master’s programs vary by subject and specific program. For education master’s programs, generally, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in music education or a related field. Many programs prefer or require that you already hold a teaching license and/or have teaching experience as well.

Other common requirements include a minimum GPA (around 3.0). You’ll also need to submit a number of items with your application, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. The good news is that online MEd programs rarely require GRE scores, and many do not require auditions.

Q: Can I work full-time as a teacher while pursuing an online master’s in music education?

A: In most cases, yes. Music education master’s programs are specifically designed for working educators. In fact, the vast majority of online MEd students are full-time teachers. Courses are usually scheduled to be flexible, either in the evenings or asynchronous (meaning there are no set login times). Many programs let you take just one course at a time in an accelerated format.

Be prepared to dedicate a few evenings each the week or a chunk of time on weekends (perhaps 10 to 15 hours per week total) to coursework.

Q: Does this degree certify me to teach?

A: An online MEd in Music Education is typically not an initial teaching certification program. Programs assume that you are already a certified teacher or at least have a music teaching background, and are designed to deepen your teaching expertise.

However, if you need teacher certification, some universities offer separate certification tracks or combined MEd in Music Education and MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching) options. That said, earning a music education master’s can help with meeting certification requirements in some states, so be sure to check your state’s teacher licensing rules.

Q: Will a master’s in music education prepare me to continue on with my graduate studies?

A: Yes. Both music education Doctor of Education (EdD) or Specialist in Education (EdS) degrees are available, many featuring online or hybrid formats. The EdS in Music Education programs are designed primarily for music educators to enhance their knowledge and skills set to prepare for specialized and leadership positions in school music programs. The EdD in Music Education focuses on preparing graduates to take on roles in advanced research and post-secondary education.

A previously-earned music education master’s is almost always a requirement for admission into programs for both of these degree types.

Music Education Salary Potential with a Master’s Degree

A master’s in music education prepares you for advanced teaching roles, ensemble direction, and arts leadership across K-12 schools, community music programs, conservatories, and higher education. Graduates work as music teachers, band and orchestra directors, choral conductors, and music curriculum specialists — bringing both pedagogical depth and performance expertise to their practice. The degree also supports movement into academic music positions.

Compensation for music educators varies by setting, with higher education and conservatory roles typically offering stronger salaries than K-12 positions. Directors of large ensembles and those with established performance careers may supplement income through performance and recording work.

Use the salary table below to see what music directors and composers earn across states, and benchmark the financial landscape for music education careers.

Sort by:

75th: $104,090 90th: $165,760

75th: $60,080 90th: $62,700

75th: $126,430 90th: $175,670

75th: $116,670 90th: $158,760

75th: $119,990 90th: $207,250

75th: $131,260 90th: $159,250

75th: $75,520 90th: $93,510

75th: $90,880 90th: $123,530

75th: $92,400 90th: $116,390

75th: $65,520 90th: $104,000

75th: $123,790 90th: $175,610

75th: $73,080 90th: $100,360

75th: $101,350 90th: $124,790

75th: $114,150 90th: $150,380

75th: $78,260 90th: $125,090

75th: $75,870 90th: $87,460

75th: $82,030 90th: $113,670

75th: $58,220 90th: $76,680

75th: $171,070 90th: $205,740

75th: $140,230 90th: $199,430

75th: $82,430 90th: $190,280

75th: $81,360 90th: $121,270

75th: $134,670 90th: $167,740

75th: $86,880 90th: $115,740

75th: $79,440 90th: $109,380

75th: $99,900 90th: $117,820

75th: $86,180 90th: $130,290

75th: $82,570 90th: $86,410

75th: $92,150 90th: $130,980

75th: $104,090 90th: $161,370

75th: $105,860 90th: $177,040

Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.

Resources for Music Education Master’s Students & Professionals

Whether you’re currently in a music ed program or already teaching, the following resources can enrich your learning and teaching practice. From professional organizations to handy apps, explore these ten resources to expand your toolkit:

National Association for Music Education (NAfME) — Teaching resources, lesson plan ideas, advocacy tools, research journals, a community forum, and more.
Smithsonian Folkways: Tools for Teaching — Ready-to-use lessons (with audio recordings) that help you incorporate diverse music traditions into your curriculum.
MusicTheory.net — Free music theory lessons, exercises, and tools.
MuseScore — Free music notation software that allows you and your students to compose and arrange music by creating sheet music from scratch.
Chrome Music Lab — A collection of fun, hands-on music experiments. Students can play with rhythm patterns, compose melodies using colors, experiment with sound waves, and more.
MakeMusic — A vast library of band, orchestra, and vocal repertoire.
After Sectionals Podcast — A candid and humorous podcast by three Texas middle school band directors discussing all things band and music education.
The Midwest Clinic — Free clinic handouts, rehearsal technique tips, and videos from past sessions.
Teachers Pay Teachers: Music Education — Thousands of lesson plans, activities, worksheets, and arrangements created by music teachers.
BandLab for Education — Free cloud-based digital audio workstation specifically designed for schools that lets students create, record, and mix music online using a wide range of virtual instruments and loops.

Ranking The Best Online MEd in Music Education Programs

Below is our ranking of the best online master’s programs in music education today. Rankings are based on analysis of U.S. Department of Education data and thousands of accredited institutions. Factors include affordability, accreditation, academic quality, and student support services such as advising, tutoring, and career resources.

Use this list as a comparison tool and consider which program elements matter most for your teaching goals and career plans.

Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies

Fayette, MO

Private · HLC

Central Methodist University’s Master of Music Education (MME) program develops advanced teaching skills, musical interpretation, and leadership through summer courses and short sessions, preparing experienced educators to excel in music education with up-to-date pedagogy and practical techniques. It’s accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Program Highlights:

The Master of Music Education program at Central Methodist University offers accelerated summer residencies with only three consecutive summers of on-campus intensive sessions combined with electronic coursework.
Students complete a culminating Master's report project that allows them to apply learned pedagogical and musical tools by preparing a concert in their own teaching environment.
The program emphasizes practical teaching techniques, musical interpretation, and current issues in music education, supported by a flexible hybrid delivery model balancing on-campus community building with remote learning.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $6,030
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 254

Adams State University

Alamosa, CO

Public · HLC

Adams State University’s Master of Arts in Music Education offers two tracks: fully online or a hybrid online/on-campus with concentrations in performance, composition, or conducting. The 30-credit program emphasizes research, pedagogy, and practical skills, requiring residencies for the hybrid option to enhance K-12 teaching effectiveness.

Program Highlights:

Adams State’s MA in Music Education offers a flexible cohort model with a fully online track and a hybrid track including in-person residencies for specialized concentrations.
The program features specialized concentrations in composition, conducting, and performing that include face-to-face instruction and residency requirements, supporting advanced music career development.
Courses are designed to be accessible for working music educators, with practical, relevant projects and highly knowledgeable faculty committed to personalized support.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,704
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,353

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Florida’s online Master of Music in Music Education offers 33 credit hours focusing on advanced musicianship, contemporary pedagogies, and a capstone project to develop personalized scholarship. Designed for working educators, it emphasizes practical application and flexible, asynchronous learning. No GRE required for admission.

Program Highlights:

The University of Florida’s Music Education program offers merit-based out-of-state tuition waivers up to $20,000 per year, significantly reducing costs for non-resident students.
Graduate students benefit from UF COTA’s dedicated graduate research awards and grants, supporting scholarly development and networking within the music education field.
The UF College of Education provides access to over 150 annual scholarships, creating extensive financial support opportunities tailored to music education students.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,770
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 10,217

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY

Private · SACSCOC

Campbellsville University’s online Master of Music in Music Education develops advanced teaching skills, deepens musical understanding, and explores music history, technology, and psychology. It offers thesis or capstone tracks, prepares educators for leadership roles, and supports Rank II certification and further academic study, all in a flexible, faith-based format.

Program Highlights:

Campbellsville University’s Master of Music in Music Education offers a fully online, asynchronous format enabling flexible completion for working professionals without requiring a current teaching license.
The program is designed by experienced faculty and integrates advanced music education theories with practical instruction in pedagogy, curriculum design, and music technology to enhance professional growth and classroom leadership.
Students have the option to complete either a thesis or capstone portfolio, allowing tailored research or applied project work to suit individual career goals, supported by mentorship from dedicated faculty.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,620
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,841

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The University of South Florida’s Master of Arts in Music Education emphasizes learner-centered pedagogy, research techniques, and action research in diverse educational settings. It includes core courses, electives, and a graduate thesis, designed for future leaders in music education research, teaching, and administration. Offered fully online.

Program Highlights:

The USF School of Music offers both talent-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, awarded through competitive auditions and FAFSA eligibility, providing significant financial support.
Graduate Assistantships are available annually, offering tuition coverage plus a stipend while allowing students to gain professional experience by contributing to the School of Music.
The College of Education, including the music education program, awards over $600,000 annually in private scholarships, with opportunities tailored for teaching-focused students demonstrating merit and financial need.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,350
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,373

Florida International University

Miami, FL

Public · SACSCOC

FIU’s Master of Science in Music Education offers a customizable, two-year curriculum integrating music theory, history, psychology, research, and pedagogical techniques. It prepares students for Florida K-12 certification through seminars, directed research, and a teaching audition, delivered face-to-face, online, or hybrid.

Program Highlights:

The Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music offers merit scholarships covering 20% to 75% of in-state tuition based on performance abilities and GPA, without requiring a separate application.
Graduate students in the School of Music are automatically considered for scholarships that provide funding in exchange for community service or performance contributions, fostering professional growth and engagement.
The School’s partnership with the Johnny Mercer Foundation awards $20,000 annually in scholarships specifically for the Masters in Music education program, enhancing specialized graduate support.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,119
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,798

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

Public · WSCUC

San José State University’s Master of Arts in Music Education is a hybrid three-summer program blending online theory with in-person residencies, grounded in “El Sistema” ideals emphasizing access, youth development, musicianship, and community growth, enabling educators to advance careers while working full-time.

Program Highlights:

San José State University's Music Education MA offers a unique hybrid structure combining online theoretical courses with immersive, in-person residency workshops over three consecutive summers, enabling students to earn a master's degree without interrupting their teaching careers.
The program is grounded in Dr. Hollinger's research on Venezuela's "El Sistema," emphasizing access to education, rigorous musicianship, youth and community development, providing a progressive and socially impactful approach to music education.
Students benefit from strong cohort connections and networking opportunities within a diverse, global community while learning from a mix of knowledgeable faculty and accomplished professional artists in the field.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 5,610

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL

Public · SACSCOC

Florida State University’s Summer Master of Music Education program offers a flexible, three-summer degree for working music educators, with two summers in Tallahassee and a final summer in London. It includes choral or instrumental tracks and emphasizes musical, pedagogical, and leadership growth through graduate-level coursework and independent study.

Program Highlights:

The Florida State University Summer Master of Music Education program offers significant out-of-state tuition waivers, reducing costs for non-resident students by approximately 50% of the out-of-state portion of tuition.
The program provides access to prestigious merit scholarships automatically considered at admission—such as the Vires and Mores and Presidential Scholarships—that can offer thousands in funding without requiring separate scholarship applications.
Students benefit from a rich network of faculty expertise and professional connections within FSU's College of Music, enhancing clinical placement opportunities and career advancement in music education.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,684
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,083

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Public · MSCHE

Hunter College’s Music Education master’s prepares you to teach music across PreK-12, focusing on diverse student needs. It combines coursework from the Music Department and School of Education, including methods, history, theory, and supervised teaching, culminating in professional certification in music education. Admission requires music coursework and a 3.0 GPA.

Program Highlights:

The Music Education program at Hunter College offers supervised teaching/practicum with observation by clinical supervisors, ensuring strong practical training and mentorship during student teaching.
Students graduating from the program receive recommendation for New York State initial and professional music teacher certification, providing clear qualification pathways for employment in PreK-12 schools.
The program is jointly run by the Music Department and the School of Education, combining specialized music expertise and education pedagogy to uniquely prepare diverse and effective music educators.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $11,090
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 2,611

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Texas Tech’s Master of Music Education offers flexible 30-credit thesis or 36-credit non-thesis tracks, fully online or on-campus. The program includes five required courses and electives tailored to interests like conducting, music technology, or Kodaly certification, supporting advanced teaching skills across varied settings.

Program Highlights:

Texas Tech's Master of Music Education program offers flexible coursework completion options, including online, summer, and in-person classes tailored to students' schedules.
Students can customize their degree with diverse electives such as Kodály Certification, Music Technology, and Conducting, guided by expert faculty advisors.
The program features nationally and internationally recognized faculty, providing mentorship from established music educators, scholars, and clinicians.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,956
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,740

Southern Utah University

Cedar City, UT

Public · NWCCU

Southern Utah University’s Master of Music Education is a 30-credit, primarily online program designed for active music teachers. It offers flexible scheduling, includes two summer residencies, allows for personalized electives, and uses students’ own classrooms for practical application to enhance pedagogy and leadership skills. Tuition is $12,900.

Program Highlights:

Southern Utah University’s Master of Music Education program offers a flexible, teacher-centric schedule with mostly online coursework and two brief summer residencies, allowing full-time educators to advance their degrees without pausing their careers.
The program dedicates more than one-third of the curriculum to electives and personalized projects, enabling students to customize their learning to master skills most relevant to their professional goals.
SUU’s music programs are nationally accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring a high standard of education with expert faculty and a focus on real-world teaching experience using students’ own classrooms as learning labs.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $7,574
Accreditation NWCCU
Online Students 1,962

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Education at Texas State University requires 36 credit hours and enhances pedagogical expertise, leadership, and research skills. It offers flexible online or in-person formats, supports diverse electives, and suits educators with varied P-12 teaching backgrounds seeking advanced training.

Program Highlights:

The Texas State University School of Music offers an extensive scholarship program with awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 annually, renewable each year for full-time graduate music majors maintaining a 3.0 GPA, providing significant financial support and in-state tuition eligibility for out-of-state recipients.
All admitted graduate music students are automatically considered for graduate assistantships with positions available in specialized areas such as conducting, jazz studies, opera, music education, and musicology, enhancing practical experience alongside academic study.
Recipients of the prestigious Clara Freshour Nelson Music Scholarship may receive awards covering up to full tuition and fees, benefiting both undergraduate and graduate students and substantially reducing the cost of advanced music education.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,147
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,105

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK

Public · HLC

The Master of Music Education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University develops advanced skills in teaching, curriculum design, and administration, available 100% online. Students study music history, pedagogy, research, and administration, preparing for leadership in schools and music education programs while building a personal teaching philosophy.

Program Highlights:

The Master of Music Education at Southeastern University is offered 100% online, allowing flexible study without geographic constraints.
Students receive instruction from highly qualified faculty with diverse expertise in classical, jazz, pop, folk, film, and worship music genres, ensuring broad professional preparation.
The program emphasizes developing a personal philosophy of music education and advanced skills in curriculum development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in schools.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,860
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,467

New Mexico State University-Main Campus

Las Cruces, NM

Public · HLC

The NMSU Master of Music in Music Education requires an undergraduate degree in music or music education and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The 31-credit program includes courses in theory, history, education, research methods, electives, and a thesis or project. Admission involves writing samples and interviews.

Program Highlights:

New Mexico State University's Master of Music program does not require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), streamlining admissions for qualified applicants with relevant undergraduate degrees.
Students create a personalized Program of Study with faculty advisor and committee approval during their first semester, ensuring tailored guidance and mentorship.
The program is offered with both on-campus and online options, providing flexible access to graduate-level music education in multiple specializations.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,181
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,570

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The UNF Master of Music Education offers two concentrations—Pedagogy and Research for current educators, and Professional Education for those with other music degrees—designed to prepare students for Florida teaching certification. The program features flexible scheduling, graduate assistantships, and emphasizes research, leadership, and curriculum development.

Program Highlights:

The UNF Music Graduate Program offers graduate assistantships providing both tuition waivers and stipends, which significantly reduce financial burdens for students.
The program provides a flexible course schedule designed for working professionals, allowing students to balance graduate studies with their careers.
Students can complete their degree in two years, enabling an accelerated path to advanced credentials and career advancement.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,570
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,420

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN

Public · HLC

The University of Minnesota’s MM in Music Education prepares practicing educators with courses in philosophy, history, pedagogy, and curriculum design. It offers Pedagogical and Research tracks, small classes, evening/online formats, and emphasizes action research and professional growth tailored to individual goals. Completion requires a master’s project and oral exam.

Program Highlights:

The University of Minnesota's MM in Music Education offers individualized attention in small classes that address current issues like student-centered learning and music technology.
The program provides flexible evening and summer seminar formats, including synchronous online classes for students who live far from campus.
Students can tailor their studies by choosing between the Pedagogical or Research track to align closely with their career goals and interests.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $19,116
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 3,623

East Carolina University

Greenville, NC

Public · SACSCOC

East Carolina University’s Master of Music in Music Education offers a primarily online program focusing on graduate-level teacher education, approved for North Carolina licensure. It includes various emphases such as pedagogical studies, conducting, and music therapy, requiring a capstone project for completion.

Program Highlights:

The ECU Master of Music in Music Education offers up to six semester hours of graduate credit transfer for prior National Board Certification or other accredited programs, accelerating degree completion options for experienced educators.
The program features graduate assistantships and out-of-state tuition waivers, providing financial support and reducing educational costs for qualifying students.
All concentrations, except music therapy, are approved for North Carolina teacher licensure, enabling graduates to meet state certification requirements directly through this program.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,749
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,905

Youngstown State University

Youngstown, OH

Public · HLC

The Dana School of Music at YSU offers a 100% online Master of Music in Music Education designed for busy educators, allowing flexible completion while teaching. The program integrates current classroom strategies and includes courses in pedagogy, curriculum development, and a research-based capstone project. Completion can be within one year or on a flexible schedule.

Program Highlights:

The 100% online Master of Music in Music Education program offers maximum flexibility, allowing students to complete the degree in as little as one year while continuing their teaching careers.
The curriculum includes specialized courses such as Audio and Music Production Pedagogy and Conducting Pedagogy, culminating in an action-research based capstone that advances individual practical goals.
Graduates enjoy a 100% job placement rate, demonstrating strong employer demand and successful career outcomes for program alumni.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,547
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,052

Tarleton State University

Stephenville, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The Music Education M.M. at Tarleton State University is a flexible, fully online program requiring 36 credit hours, designed for current educators seeking career advancement, higher teaching effectiveness, or doctoral preparation. It offers diverse track options and courses combining pedagogy, theory, and music administration.

Program Highlights:

The Tarleton State University Music Education M.M. program offers a completely online format providing flexible learning tailored to diverse student schedules and locations.
Students engage with faculty experts representing diverse experiences, enhancing mentorship and a rich educational environment in music theory, pedagogy, and leadership.
The program allows three degree completion tracks: traditional coursework, thesis research, or a curriculum project, enabling personalized academic pathways.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,356
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,782

University of Georgia

Athens, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Georgia’s online Master of Music Education (M.M.Ed.) prepares certified music teachers for academic leadership, curriculum design, and research roles. It offers general, choral, or instrumental emphases, requires 33 credit hours, and aligns with Georgia Teacher Certification at the T-5 level.

Program Highlights:

The University of Georgia’s online Master of Music Education offers an accelerated 14-month completion option, enabling faster degree attainment for motivated students.
The program is NASM-accredited and prepares certified music teachers for advanced leadership roles in curriculum design, mentorship, and teacher research, enhancing professional credentials.
Students benefit from 100% online delivery through the prestigious Hugh Hodgson School of Music, providing expert faculty mentorship and preparation for doctoral studies or academic leadership.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,878
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,482

Kent State University at Kent

Kent, OH

Public · HLC

Kent State’s Master of Music in Music Education is a 100% online, 31-credit program designed for active music educators seeking to enhance teaching skills in choral, instrumental, and general music. It offers customizable electives and a capstone project, enabling immediate classroom application without requiring licensure.

Program Highlights:

Kent State’s Master of Music in Music Education program allows you to immediately apply course concepts in your classroom, enhancing real-time teaching outcomes.
Students receive direct support from nationally recognized faculty and individualized capstone projects tailored to their professional goals.
This 100% online program can be completed in as few as 23 months with no audition or standardized test requirements, providing flexible accelerated completion.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,483
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 3,173

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC

Public · SACSCOC

The Master of Music in Music Education at UNCG offers deep study of historical, philosophical, psychological, and cultural aspects of music education. It develops teaching skills, reflective practice, research techniques, and scholarly writing. The 32-credit program includes a capstone project and is available on-campus or fully online.

Program Highlights:

The MM in Music Education at UNCG offers teaching assistantships that provide financial support and professional development opportunities for full-time students.
Students benefit from world-class faculty who are master teachers and researchers, enhancing their learning experience and mentorship.
The program accommodates both on-campus and fully online study, allowing practicing K-12 teachers to advance their education flexibly without sacrificing current professional commitments.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,375
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,095

Georgia College & State University

Milledgeville, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The Master of Music Education (M.M.Ed.) at Georgia College is an online program designed for in-service teachers, focusing on pedagogy, history, theory, research, teaching, and performance. It enhances leadership skills and prepares graduates to address diverse learner needs and assume roles as policy-makers in music education.

Program Highlights:

Georgia College’s M.M.Ed. in Music Education offers a flexible online format that supports working in-service music teachers while fostering collaboration among students from diverse musical backgrounds and regions.
The program includes a required capstone project focused on action or scholarly research, helping students develop strong leadership, curriculum design, and pedagogical skills specific to contemporary music education.
Students benefit from close mentorship and field placement opportunities through partnerships with master teachers, enhancing practical experience and increasing job readiness in varied educational settings.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,292
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 1,033

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

Public · SACSCOC

The Master of Music Education at the University of Kentucky offers a practical curriculum for current music teachers, emphasizing flexible online courses with occasional onsite training in Modern Band, Dalcroze, or Orff Schulwerk. Admission requires an interview but no audition.

Program Highlights:

The Master of Music Education program at the University of Kentucky offers a practical curriculum tailored for working teachers, allowing most students to take 1–2 online classes during the school year while continuing to teach professionally.
Students participate in specialized in-person training sessions for Modern Band, Dalcroze, or Orff Schulwerk techniques, enhancing hands-on expertise in innovative music education approaches.
The program includes a Graduate Certificate option in Orff Schulwerk, providing a unique specialization for educators seeking advanced credentials in this widely respected music teaching method.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,967
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,173

Music Education Master’s Programs Online: Reviewing Top Schools

Inside 3 Popular Online Music Education Master’s Programs

Boston University — Master of Music in Music Education

Kent State University — Master of Music in Music Education

University of Florida — Master of Music in Music Education

Pricing the Online Music Education Master’s

FAQs for Prospective Music Education Master’s Students

Q: Is an online MEd in Music Education credible and accredited?

Q: What are the typical admissions requirements? Do I need a teaching license or music degree to apply?

Q: Can I work full-time as a teacher while pursuing an online master’s in music education?

Q: Does this degree certify me to teach?

Q: Will a master’s in music education prepare me to continue on with my graduate studies?

Music Education Salary Potential with a Master’s Degree

Resources for Music Education Master’s Students & Professionals

Ranking The Best Online MEd in Music Education Programs

Methodology for OMD’s “Best” Colleges Rankings

Step 1: Create a Universe of Eligible Universities

Step 2: Assign Weightings and Rank Universities Based on Scores in Key Areas

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