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Elizabeth Sokolowski \ esokolowski@uarts.edu \ 215.717.6354
Program Director

Description

The Master of Arts in Teaching – Music Education (MAT) is an advanced teacher certification program for professional musicians desiring a master’s degree and certification to teach music in K-12 schools as well as in other educational settings and for related careers. It is a unique program in that candidates for the MAT typically will have completed undergraduate studies in applied music, composition, theory, musicology, or other professional areas. MAT graduates are eligible to receive K-12 certification from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education to teach music.

The MAT in Music Education is designed to develop and refine the student’s intellectual, pedagogical, and musical skills. The program is a balance of intellectual foundations, curriculum design, and assessment; partnered with hands-on pedagogy and conducting courses developed to provide relevant experiences for the classrooms of today and leadership for the future of the profession. This preparation includes comprehensive instruction in the use of educational technology, field-based learning experiences, and site-based pedagogy courses, which provide direct feedback on instructional effectiveness.

The MAT curriculum comprises 36 credits and may be completed in one academic year if all co-requisites are satisfied prior to matriculation. Co-requisite requirements may be satisfied in a number of ways, including taking courses in the Music Education minor  program. Working professionals may opt to complete the degree over an extended period of time on a part-time basis. Students who wish to complete the program over two years of graduate study may do so by taking these co-requisites during their first year at the University.

Graduation Requirements

Successful completion of all course and related requirements shall lead to the granting of the Master of Arts in Teaching with a major in Music Education. However, approval of the MAT in Music Education Committee is required for recommendation for teacher certification. It should be noted also that the initial Instructional I Certificate cannot be issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education unless PDE testing requirements have been met.

Program Objectives

Students graduating with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Music Education will:

• have completed the necessary coursework to become certified music educators in a public and/or private school system
• understand the essential tenets of music education
• understand the importance of standards-based education, quality design and assessment strategies, and foundational teaching methods
• demonstrate an understanding and application of the four domains of professional practice through quality teaching and musicianship
• demonstrate the application of pedagogy and methodology, both instrumental and vocal, as a means to teach music and musicianship
• integrate technology in support of student learning
• communicate and collaborate with peers in multifarious musical environments, schools and communities

Program Requirements (36 credits)