online phd music ed

Online Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education

Online dma music education, degree type.

The online Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Music Education at BU School of Music is a collaborative program that prepares music educators for advancement in their field by developing and honing research skills, sharpening proficiency in teaching techniques, and producing a dissertation of publishable quality that introduces new knowledge designed to push the field of music education forward. Boston University’s graduate programs in music education have been created for the continuing growth of forward-thinking leaders and educators who serve as advocates for the importance of music in our lives, communities, and schools.

Study with a cohort of the nation’s most innovative thought leaders, teachers, policy makers, and researchers in music education, and learn from BU’s large, diverse faculty representing a broad range of music research and practice interests.

BU’s online DMA in Music Education is for educators seeking leadership through scholarship. For you, the classroom or studio is a laboratory. You seek new and better techniques to encourage students to improve as musicians and succeed as well-rounded people. When you find something that works, you want to share it with other music professionals. Perhaps you have participated in a teacher research group in your school district, presented a clinic on best practices at a music conference, or have been invited to teach a course at a local college. It was a satisfying professional experience, and you would like to deepen your skillset.

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Now, you’re ready for more.  You’re eager to develop your scholarship, keep your musicianship sharp, and continue your teaching career. This is where online learning comes in. We’ve designed this program for you to be an important member of a small, academically vigorous online doctoral program without uprooting your family or leaving the work that fulfills you.

You will prepare for advancement in the field of music education by developing and honing research skills, sharpening proficiency in theory and history, developing a specialization, and producing a dissertation of publishable quality that adds new knowledge, moving the field of music education forward. Your dissertation can become the basis for a scholarly article, series of articles, or book.

Along the way, you’ll develop close relationships with fellow students and our expert faculty, who teach both online and on campus, and benefit from their guidance. Many of our online doctoral students have collaborated with faculty mentors on music education research and have presented alongside faculty at international conferences.

Join the ranks of scholars and practitioners redefining music education for the 21st century.

Curriculum requirements for the online DMA in Music Education program can be found on the  Academic Bulletin.

With an Online DMA in Music Ed from Boston University, you will…

• Learn new techniques and strategies that can be applied in your classrooms.
• Collaborate with influential leaders in the music education profession.
• Participate in a weeklong residency on campus with faculty and other students.
• Pursue your scholarly interests and connect them to music education theories and your teaching practice.
• Advance your career and discover new opportunities.
• Complete your doctorate without uprooting your family or leaving the work that fulfills you.

Program of Study

As an online Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in music education degree student, you will critically examine a variety of research that informs music education. You will discuss and analyze philosophical, sociological, and psychological ideas and problems in the field of music education. Music theory and analytical techniques in composition will sharpen the eye and ear. Scholarly writing and research skills are honed as you choose from a list of engaging electives. Your online student colleagues will be music education professionals from around the world who will become lifelong friends and professional contacts.

This world-class program is an incredible place to meet future colleagues and leaders of the profession where you will be challenged and tested to your limits to produce your very best. Dr. Gareth Dylan Smith, Assistant Professor of Music Education, Boston University

The Music Education faculty aim to prepare students to work effectively within contemporary music and education landscapes. We are a theoretically-grounded and practice-oriented department committed to practices of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We expect our students to be flexible musicians and thinkers who strive for excellence, no matter the venue in which they teach.

Our faculty include nationally- and internationally-recognized leaders in early childhood and elementary music education; instrumental and choral music education; community music facilitation; music technology; accessible music education; diversity, equity, and inclusion; student leadership; trauma-informed music education; arts integration; rock and pop pedagogy; music and wellbeing; and policy and advocacy.

We offer courses and professional development for 21st century music teachers and future professors who teach within and beyond the traditionally-conceived school day, with populations that include K–12 students, early childhood and adult students, in higher education and a variety of community settings. We encourage students to think creatively and critically, to be dedicated collaborators, and to work in multilingual and multicultural contexts with students from across the socioeconomic spectrum and with a range of ability.

online DMA Courses

We model and encourage self-reflection and dedication to continual growth. Graduate students may concentrate their degree in areas such as diversity, equity, and inclusion; antiracist pedagogy; early childhood; musicology/ethnomusicology; music technology; popular music; and wellbeing.

Our students benefit from pursuing their doctoral studies with world-class faculty publishing innovative, traditional, relevant, and diverse scholarship. Boston University’s online DMA in Music Education is a challenging and rigorous program that welcomes students who are committed to making a difference in and through music education.

Study at Top-Ranked, Fully Accredited Boston University

As the oldest degree-granting music program in the u.s., bu has shaped generations of music educators and the pedagogy of music education globally, earning a reputation for excellence..

Our program was the first (and longest-running) online DMA in music education anywhere in the world.

The diverse interests and expertise of BU’s music education faculty provide students with access to unparalleled depth and diversity of expertise.

A blend of synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities provide a distinct hybrid study experience.

Online programs at BU

Alexandre Abdoulaev

Lecturer, Musicology

Mark Berger

Lecturer, Music Theory

Kelly Bylica

Assistant Professor of Music, Music Education

Diana Dansereau

Associate Professor, Music Education; Chair, Music Education; 4+1 Program Advisor, School of Music

André de Quadros

Professor of Music, Music Education

Ruth Debrot

Senior Lecturer, Music Education

Andrew Goodrich

Associate Professor of Music, Music Education

Karin Hendricks

Associate Professor, Music Education; Associate Director, School of Music; President, American String Teachers Association

Brian Kellum

Lecturer, Music Education

Ulrike Präger

Gareth Dylan Smith

Jacqueline Smith

Tawnya Smith

Katharine Stuffelbeam

Lecturer in Music, Musicology

John Wriggle

From CFA Magazine

“We’re stepping back a little bit and looking at what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, and what it means to be a music educator. We’re in a place of change right now and that’s scary and exciting at the same time.”

– Heather Katz-Cote (CFA’16), K–12 Director of Performing Arts in Westwood, MA, Incoming President of the Massachusetts Music Educators Association

Pictured: (left) Dana Monteiro (CFA’16) and Harlem Samba perform at the 2017 Louis Armstrong’s Wonderful World Festival in New York City. Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Kupferberg Center for the Arts at Queens College

Alumni Scholarship Contributions to the Field of Music Education

Below is a selection of completed dissertations from recent online graduates of the Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education at Boston University that demonstrate the breadth and scope of topics and research methods employed by our DMA candidates:

Black Band for Brown Students: A Culturally Relevant Pedagogy? Darryl Singleton (CFA’20) , Katy, TX Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Education online

Marching Sound Machines: An Autoethnography of a Director of Bands at an Historically Black College and University Jorim Reid (CFA’20) , Durham, NC Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Education online

Self-Assessment in Jazz Improvisation: An Instrumental Case Study of Professional Jazz Musicians in a Jazz Combo Setting Troy Davis (CFA’20) , Santa Clara, CA Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Education online

Understructures, Gender Roles, and Performativity in a High School Percussion Section Kenneth Dale Disney (CFA’18) , Knoxville, TN Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Education online

Pray Play Teach: Conversations with Three Jewish Israeli Music Educators Amira Ehrlich (CFA’18) , Israel Doctor of Musical Arts, Music Education online

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Next Steps for Applicants

The best way to determine if BU is right for you is to explore our admission requirements, financial tools, and resources to determine if the program is the right match.

Reach out to our Director of Admissions at  [email protected]  with any questions along the way or to request information . We are happy to discuss your educational interests and career goals. In addition, allow us to provide you with a personalized webpage specific to your online program of interest!

Admissions Info

Related Work

Carnegie Hall Spotlight Concert (2023)

Related interests:.

• Arts & Education

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News & events, related news.

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Boston University College of Fine Arts

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Take Your Music Education Career to the Highest Level

Study with a cohort of the nation’s most innovative thought leaders, teachers, policy makers, and researchers in music education, and learn from BU’s large, diverse faculty representing a broad range of music research and practice interests. This collaborative online doctorate program prepares music educators for advancement in their field by developing and honing research skills, sharpening proficiency in teaching techniques, and producing a dissertation of publishable quality that introduces new knowledge designed to push the field of music education forward.

With a DMA in Music Education Online from BU you will:

• Learn new techniques and strategies that can be applied in your classrooms.
• Collaborate with influential leaders in the music education profession.
• Participate in a weeklong residency on campus with faculty and other students.
• Pursue your scholarly interests and connect them to music education theories and your teaching practice.
• Advance your career and discover new opportunities.
• Complete your doctorate without uprooting your family or leaving the work that fulfills you.

Study at Top-Ranked, Fully Accredited Boston University

As the oldest degree-granting music program in the US, BU has earned a reputation for excellence.

Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Accredited Boston University holds accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities with 615 accredited institutional members.

Featured in Newsweek as the 35th best university in the U.S. and the 65th best university in the world

Ranked #27 among Best U.S. Colleges by The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education

Top 100 graduate universities by QS Quacquarelli Symonds rankings

Ranked 42 in national universities by the U.S. News & World Report college rankings

Top 40 best U.S. universities; Top 74 international universities by The Times Higher Education. BU grads rank 5th in the U.S. and 6th in the world among schools for employability

Boston University earned the “Effective Practices Award” from the Online Learning Consortium (2018)

Alumni Scholarship Contributions to the Field of Music Education

Below is a selection of completed dissertations from recent graduates of the Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education at Boston University that demonstrate the breadth and scope of topics and research methods employed by our DMA candidates:

Heather Katz Cote (CFA’16), Village of Nagog Woods, MA: A Matrix of Music Supervisors’ Stories in the Midst of School Reform

James Ray (CFA’17), Port Angeles, WA: Collective Efficacy Belief, Within-Group Agreement, and Performance Quality Among String Chamber Ensembles: An Exploratory Study

Kenneth Dale Disney (CFA’18), Knoxville, TN: Understructures, Gender Roles, and Performativity in a High School Percussion Section

Amira Ehrlich (CFA’18), Israel: Pray Play Teach: Conversations with Three Jewish Israeli Music Educators

Troy Davis (CFA’20), Santa Clara, CA: Self-Assessment in Jazz Improvisation: An Instrumental Case Study of Professional Jazz Musicians in a Jazz Combo Setting

Jorim Reid (CFA’20), Durham, NC: Marching Sound Machines: An Autoethnography of a Director of Bands at an Historically Black College and University

Darryl Singleton (CFA ’20), Katy, TX: Black Band for Brown Students: A Culturally Relevant Pedagogy?

About BU’s Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education Online Degree

Boston University’s graduate programs in music education have been created for the continuing growth of forward-thinking leaders and educators who serve as advocates for the importance of music in our lives, communities, and schools.

We are a student-centered program committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Graduate students may add focus to their degrees with multiple electives in areas including diversity, equity, and inclusion; antiracist pedagogy; early childhood; musicology/ethnomusicology; music technology; popular music; and wellbeing.

Our contemporary curriculum is taught by BU scholars in music education, theory, and musicology who are leaders in their fields. They are eager to share their expertise with you because they love to teach and are committed to expanding the number of highly qualified music educators in the field.

Applications for the Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education online program are accepted once per year for a Fall term start. The application opens in September and has an early January submission deadline each year. Applicants will be reviewed for admission based upon the following criteria and materials:

Professional Portfolio Including:

• Completed application for graduate admission to the College of Fine Arts
• Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• Two Letters of Reference
• Curriculum Vitae
• Personal Statement
• Statement of Research Interest
• Writing Sample
• English Proficiency test scores for non-native English speakers

Qualities of a Competitive Applicant:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music or Music Education from regionally accredited institutions
• At least 3 years of music teaching experience at the primary, secondary or university level
• Leadership through activities such as designing curriculum, mentoring new teachers, serving on executive boards of professional organizations, and publishing articles
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

Please refer to our website for instructions on how to submit application materials at  www.bu.edu/cfa/online . For assistance, please contact our Director of Online Admissions at 1-855-884-5636 or email  [email protected] .

Ready to Take Your Career to the Highest Level?

About nasad.

Founded in 1944, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities with approximately 363 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials for art and design and art/design-related disciplines, and provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other art/design-related endeavors.  

Founded in 1924, the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities with approximately 639 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials for music and music-related disciplines, and provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other music-related endeavors.

Boston University is an internationally respected university with a reputation for excellence and extensive research.

Top 100  national universities ( U.S. News & World Report  college rankings)

Top 100  graduate universities ( QS Quacquarelli Symonds  rankings)

Featured in  Newsweek  as the  35th best  university in the U.S. and the  65th best  university in the world

Top 20  best U.S. universities;  Top 54  international universities ( The Times Higher Education Supplement )

The Center for Measuring University Performance  places Boston University among the  top 50 research universities  in the nation

15th best school  in the U.S.;  34th best school  in the world; and  15th best United States school  for the professional future of its alumni (“The Professional Ranking of World Universities”; by Ecole de mines de Paris)

The Institute of Higher Education at Shanghai Jiao Tong University ranked Boston University among the  top 100 universities  in the world, and among the  top 50  best overall universities

ACCREDITATION

Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, (NEASC, Inc.).

About NEASC

Founded in 1885, the New England Association of Schools & Colleges, Inc. (NEASC, Inc.), is the nation’s oldest regional accrediting association whose mission is the establishment and maintenance of high standards for all levels of education, from pre-K to the doctoral level.

For more information on the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., visit their web site at  http://www.neasc.org/ .

Top 10 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Music

Fortunately, distance learning is picking up the slack. These ten programs—each offered by a university that holds U.S. regional accreditation or its country’s equivalent—provide options to travelers, the disabled, residents of isolated cities and rural areas, and others who are willing and able to complete doctoral-level study in music but can’t (or would prefer not to) participate in an on-campus program.

1. Boston University, Online DMA in Music Education

Boston University’s new online Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.)  in music education allows music educators to obtain a degree, off-campus, from one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. Applicants must hold an accredited master’s degree in music, music education, or a closely related field with a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher, along with at least 3 years of music teaching experience at some level. The curriculum consists of six major-area courses, three additional courses on musicology and music theory, three approved electives, and a dissertation.

By choosing elective courses wisely, students can create their own specialization tracks. A student who wishes to specialize in African-American music, for example, could take electives on the blues, jazz, and African music. The program takes several years to complete, and may require several short on-campus residencies.

2. University of South Africa, DLitt et Phil in Musicology

With more than 400,000 students all over the world, the University of South Africa is both the largest and the least expensive university on this list. It’s also among the oldest. Boasting both Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela among its graduates, UNISA has been offering distance learning courses since 1873. Like most universities that offer British-style research doctorates, UNISA requires applicants to complete a research project under the supervision of a member of the faculty; the D.Litt. et Phil. program in musicology  typically takes three to six years to complete. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in music or the equivalent.

There are two tracks available for the research project: research-only, and research plus portfolio. The research-only project requires an academic dissertation of 60,000 to 90,000 words, while the research plus portfolio option requires a portfolio of original written compositions contextualized by an academic thesis of 24,000 to 36,000 words. The degree can be completed entirely by distance learning from anywhere in the world, and no on-campus visits are required.

3. Monash University, Ph.D. in Music Composition

Located in Victoria on the southeastern coast of Australia, Monash University is one of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight  and has long been noted for its strength as a research institution. Founded in 1958, and with more than 50,000 students, it’s one of the more widely respected universities in Australia.

It also offers a wide range of distance learning programs, among them a Ph.D. in music composition  that can be done with almost no on-campus residency. Students must visit face-to-face with their supervisor for at least five days each year, but these meetings need not necessarily take place on campus (though they generally do); the rest of the communication may take place by telephone, mail, email, or videoconferencing.

Students are required to write an academic thesis of up to 80,000 words, and can finish the program after as little as three years of full-time study. The student’s previously-written work, including prior musical compositions, may comprise some—but not all—of the thesis matter.

4. University of Birmingham, Ph.D. in Musicology

Founded as a medical school in 1828, Britain’s University of Birmingham was rated #1 in Britain by the *Times Higher Education* supplement in 2014. It is among the most prestigious research universities in the country, and its music department, whose resources include the Barber Music Library, is world-class.

Birmingham’s Ph.D. in musicology  can be completed in three to six years. Students are required to write a supervised academic thesis of about 80,000 words, and must visit the campus at least three times during the program; the rest can be completed entirely by distance learning.

5. Union Institute & University, customized Ph.D.

Union offers one of the oldest regionally accredited distance learning Ph.D. programs  in the United States, and it is also among the most unconventional. Students work with cohort groups to design a specialized major on a specific topic that interests them, and then work through a series of individualized classes culminating in a supervised final project supervised by a university-approved expert in the field. The program requires short residencies at regional seminars and cohort sessions that are held at a variety of locations spread throughout the world (though most are held in the United States).

As a practical matter, the Union program is a good fit for someone who wishes to specialize on a highly specialized or interdisciplinary music-related topic, but specifically seeks a U.S. credential (or simply prefers more guidance and camaraderie than what might be available in a British, South African, or Australian research-oriented program).

6. University of Southern Queensland, Ph.D. in Creative Arts and Media

The University of Southern Queensland has long been recognized as a global leader in distance education, and its distance learning Ph.D. program  in creative arts and media can easily be tailored to a specific music-related research interest. Residency is negotiated on a case by case basis.

7. The Open University, Ph.D. in Music

Residents of the UK are eligible to sign up for the Open University’s research-based Ph.D. in music by distance learning  on a part-time basis. Non-UK residents are sometimes accepted on a case-by-case basis, if they live near an affiliated research center and/or can travel to the Open University campus in Milton Keynes, but this is not commonly done.

The OU, which is a public university and funded by the British government, boasts over 165,000 students and over two million graduates; it is one of the largest distance learning providers in the world.

8. Lesley University, Ph.D. in Expressive Therapies [music therapy]

Lesley University’s low-residency Ph.D. in expressive therapies  allows students to focus on a music therapy track, spending a total of nine weeks on campus (broken up into three three-week summer residencies) and completing the rest of the program online. Students spend the first three years of the program on coursework, and then a final year or two on a dissertation.

9. University of Winchester, D.C.A. in Performing Arts

Winchester’s low-residency D.C.A. in performing arts , designed with working professionals in mind, can be completed in five to seven years. Students are required to attend two short September intensive residencies, but the program can otherwise be completed online. The curriculum is highly individualized and can be easily tailored to musical performance.

10. Liberty University, Doctor of Worship Studies

Liberty University, founded by the late Rev. Jerry Falwell, offers a wide array of online and low-residency programs designed for Protestant Christian religious leaders. The low-residency Doctor of Worship Studies (D.W.S.)  can be completed almost entirely online (though students must take three week-long intensives on the university’s campus in Virginia over the course of the program), and the curriculum provides a broad overview of the theology and practice of church music.

Anything We’ve Missed?

If you know of any other distance learning doctoral programs in music offered by accredited, nonprofit universities, please let me know below the fold; I might feature them in a followup piece.

3 thoughts on “Top 10 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Music”

Leroy, do you know much about this D.M.E online program? Are you a student there? I need to speak with a student of this program.

Monash U does NOT offer PhD in Music Composition

Liberty University also offers a Doctorate in Music Education. (DME) online

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Online Doctorates in Music

Online doctorate programs found in world's top 500:.

Resources for:

Sep 27, 2024 7:30pm

The Power and Passion of Beethoven

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall

Oct 4, 2024 7:30pm

Jeffrey Kahane, piano

Galvin Recital Hall

Oct 5, 2024 7:30pm

Paul O'Dette, lute

• Lectures & Interviews
• Master Classes
• Recitals & Chamber Music
• Visiting Artists

Main Resources

Main utility, degree requirements, phd in music: music education.

The PhD in Music Education is designed for individuals who have (1) a solid musical background, (2) successful teaching experience, (3) high levels of intellectual capacity, and (4) strong professional leadership abilities. Awarding of the degree is based not only on completion of objective requirements, but on the level of distinction attained by the candidate in the above four qualities.

Program of Study – 18 units

Music Education Core – 2 units

• MUSIC ED 422 Curriculum Development in Music Education
• MUSIC ED 458 Philosophical Basis of Music Education

Research in Music Education – 3 units

• MUSIC ED 523 Paradigms and Processes of Research in Music Teaching and Learning
• MUSIC ED 524 Qualitative Research in Music Education
• MUSIC ED 525 Quantitative Research in Music Education

Music Education Electives – 3 units

Students must select three MUSIC ED courses such as those listed below. For a complete listing of approved courses for PhD Students, see the Graduate Catalog .

• MUSIC ED 401 Music in Higher Education  MUSIC ED 426 World Music Pedagogy   MUSIC ED 430 Seminar in General Music Education  MUSIC ED 435 Selected Topics in Music Education  MUSIC ED 437 Psychology of Music Teaching & Learning

Cognate Area – 3 units

Students enroll in three courses in a non-music field relevant to their main interest.

Electives – 7 units

Focused study leading to a dissertation, musical studies, special needs and interests

MUSIC ED 520 Research Seminar

All PhD students must register continuously for MUSIC ED 520 Research Center Seminar (0 units). Students have the option to take 520 one time for one unit of credit.

Sample PhD Curriculum in Music Education

All courses for the PhD must appear on the authorized list of courses as published by The Graduate School.

Additional Requirements

Center for the Study of Education and the Musical Experience

During the years of residence, regular participation in the weekly seminar of the Center for the Study of Education and the Musical Experience is required. Continuing participation beyond the residence years is strongly encouraged.

Teaching Competency

As a part of their graduate school fellowship, all PhD students are expected to work as both research and teaching assistants. Students must have at least one written observation of their teaching by a music education faculty member along with any student course evaluations as appropriate.

Presentation Outside the Bienen School of Music

This requirement is designed to stimulate early involvement in the presentation of original research at a regional, national, or international level meeting. This requirement is meant to help the student develop professional experiences consistent with those of a professor of music education.

Waiver of Courses

Any course waived because the student has taken it previously, has had the same course elsewhere, or through proficiency determination, will normally be replaced by an elective course in that area of the program. The major advisor may, upon the student’s petition, exercise discretion in this matter, substituting a course outside the area of the waiver for a good cause.

Qualifying Examination and Candidacy

There are four significant steps to candidacy for the PhD in music with a concentration in music education: 

• successful completion of coursework,
• demonstration of successful teaching at the college level,
• peer-reviewed presentation at a professional meeting outside of NU, and
• successful completion of the qualifying examination.

At that point, the student is advanced to candidacy officially and can pursue their dissertation research. Candidacy should be achieved no later than 6 months following completion of course work.

At an appropriate time toward the end of coursework, each student will take a qualifying examination. The examination includes a written portion and an oral defense. Questions for the examination are written by the student with the approval of the examination committee. The answers are presented to the committee in written form and then defended in an oral examination.

Key Milestones

Contact Graduate Services:  [email protected]   847-491-5740

EdDPrograms.org

Ed.D. Programs in Music Education

Ready to advance your career with an Ed.D. in Music Education? Use our detailed listings and degree guide to explore Music Ed programs in P-12 and higher education! Compare online & on-campus options. Learn more about prerequisites for Ed.D. in Music Education applicants. Delve into details on coursework. And get a head-start on planning your job path after graduation.

What is an Ed.D. in Music Education?

An Ed.D. in Music Education is designed to prepare graduates for mid- to high-level music teaching & leadership positions in PreK-12 settings, private schools & studios, colleges & universities, and interdisciplinary arenas.

You may wish to pursue a music education doctoral program in order to:

• Learn about advanced theories & practice of music education
• Explore principles of musicology and music theory
• Become versed in applied research techniques & tools
• Develop innovative music programs & educational interventions

Types of Doctorate in Music Education Programs

Ed.d. in music education.

You won’t find many doctorates that are entirely devoted to music education in our listings . The rare example is Columbia’s Ed. in Music Education , which is designed to train music educators for high-level teaching roles and district & administrative positions.

Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction: Music Education

You’re more likely to find music education being offered as a concentration within an Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction. Our music education listings contain a number of these options. As the name implies, these doctorates help teachers become instructional leaders and curriculum specialists in their chosen field (e.g. music). We dig into the details in our guide to Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction Programs .

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership: Music Education

If you’re interested in leadership positions, you could also consider an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with a concentration in music education. You’ll find one or two examples in our listings . Doctoral programs in educational leadership often cover areas such as continuous improvement, effective management, systematic & institutional reform, and social justice. See our guide to Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Programs for more details.

DMA vs. Ed.D. in Music Education

Instead of an Ed.D. in Music Education, you might want to consider earning a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA).

• DMA programs combine advanced coursework in practical specializations (e.g. composition, conducting, performance, or music education) with graduate credits in music history, theory, and pedagogy.
• The DMA can be very similar to an Ed.D. For example, BU’s DMA in Music Education covers almost all of the same bases as an education doctorate.

Ph.D. vs. Ed.D. in Music Education

Generally speaking, an Ed.D. in Music Education is a practice-oriented doctorate that focuses on applied research & theory and workplace challenges (e.g. designing music programs). A Ph.D. in Music Education is a research-heavy degree that prepares graduates for high-level research jobs and university positions.

But the line is pretty fuzzy. When we looked at job listings for Assistant or Associate Professors of Music Education, employers were asking for a doctorate in a relevant field (e.g. music education, conducting, etc.). This could be a Ph.D., DMA, or Ed.D. Hiring committees may be much more interested in your work experience!

Visit our detailed guide ( here ) to learn more about the differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs, read insights from doctorate in education experts, and more.

Earning an Ed.D. in Music Education

Music education prerequisites.

• Master’s Degree: Check the admissions requirements. A school that offers a specialist degree in music education (e.g. Columbia) may want to see an MA or Master of Music degree. But a doctoral program that involves curriculum & instruction or leadership may simply ask for a relevant master’s degree.
• Minimum GPA: GPA requirements will vary. The standard minimum for Ed.D. programs is 3.0, but prestigious Colleges of Education may have a higher threshold (e.g. 3.25-3.5).
• Work Experience: Universities may or may not specify work experience in the admissions section, but it will be a factor in their decision-making process. The standard is 3+ years of teaching/professional experience. Some schools will also want you to hold a valid educator’s certificate or the equivalent in your concentration.
• Additional Requirements: GRE or MAT scores may or may not be required—it varies from school to school. You may also be asked to supply an admissions essay, résumé, academic writing sample, and 2-4 letters of recommendation.

Music Education Coursework

Columbia’s Ed. in Music Education is a good test case for coursework. It divides the curriculum into 4 major areas: Music Education, Music Content, Research in Music Education (including dissertation prep), and Out of Program research courses & electives.

Sample courses in the music education & content sections include:

• Foundations of Music Education
• Approaches to Teaching Musical Instruments
• Vocal Pedagogy
• Comprehensive Musicianship
• Applied Conducting, Instrumental, Voice, or Composition
• Applications of New Technology in Music Education
• Children’s Musical Development
• Teaching Applied Music in College
• Teaching and Administration of Music in College

Music Education Internship & Fieldwork

In our listings , you may occasionally run into an Ed.D. in Music Education or the equivalent that includes a professional internship or field experiences. If you don’t see them listed, ask the Ed.D. program coordinator if these options are available.

We tend to favor internships, since they will give you access to a mentor and expose you to new practices. But we recognize that they’ll cut into your work time!

Music Education Dissertation or Capstone Project

All Ed.D. programs—including specialist doctorates in music education—will culminate in a traditional 5-chapter dissertation, a Dissertation in Practice (DiP), or a practical capstone project. We discuss the key differences between these three options in our guide to No Dissertation Ed.D. Programs .

Online Ed.D. in Music Education Programs

Are ed.d. programs in music education offered online.

Occasionally. Our program database contains a couple of online doctorates in music education. We’ve flagged them with an “Offered Online” marker.

Do Online Ed.D. in Music Education Programs Contain Residencies?

Yes. For example:

• St. Thomas University’s cohort-based Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Learning is almost entirely online, but it does contain face-to-face summer residencies.
• Valdosta’s  Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: P-12 Disciplinary Concentration – Music Education includes one-day doctoral seminars at the beginning of years one & two.

Music Education Careers

Ed.d. in music education jobs.

An Ed.D. in Music Education will qualify you for PreK-12 educational leadership positions, college & university teaching roles, and music education jobs in the private sector.

Sample job titles for Ed.D. graduates include:

• Music Director
• Director of Music Therapy
• District Supervisor of Music
• Early Childhood Music Specialist
• Assistant Professor of Music
• Assistant Professor of Music Therapy
• Assistant Professor of Music Education
• Music Technology Professor

If you’re interested in university teaching positions, check out the HigherEdJobs section on Music Faculty and The Chronicle of Higher Education’s job board for Music Faculty .

Ed.D. in Music Education Salary

Music education is a niche field to begin with, so it’s tricky to find hard data. Having said that:

• Common salary sites (e.g. Glassdoor, Indeed, Salary.com, Payscale, etc.) can supply you with numbers for popular job titles (e.g. Music Supervisor).
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes occupational employment & wage data for Postsecondary Art, Drama, and Music Teachers .
• Some universities will also quote proposed salaries in their job descriptions.

Is an Ed.D. in Music Education Worth it?

Talk to your mentors and recent alumni before you make a decision. A doctorate in music education is a no-brainer if you want to qualify for high-level faculty positions at universities, but it will involve a whole lot of time and money. If you’re interested in PreK-12  and district-level positions, you may not need one at all.

Music Education Resources and Organizations

• American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) : AMTA is committed to the progressive development of the therapeutic use of music in rehabilitation, special education, and community settings.
• International Society for Music Education (ISME) : ISME is one of the largest societies for music educators in the world. It seeks to build an international community of music educators, foster a global intercultural understanding among the world’s music educators, and promote music education for people of all ages.
• Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) : MTNA has 20,000+ members in 50 states. It aims to advance the value of music study and music-making to society and support the careers and professionalism of those who teach music.
• National Association for Music Education (NAfME) : NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels for music education; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and organizes a variety of opportunities for students and music education teachers.
• Society for Music Teacher Education (SMTE) : SMTE membership is open to all NAfME members with an interest in music teacher education. It hosts a biennial Symposium on Music Teacher Education .
• Society for Research in Music Education (SRME) : SRME was created to foster and improve the quality of scholarship and research within the music education profession. It publishes the Journal of Research in Music Education (JRME) .

School Listings

6 Schools Found

Augusta University

College of Education

Augusta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation - P12 Music Education

• Curriculum Info
• How To Apply

Georgia State University

Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education

Atlanta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - Music Education

University of georgia.

College of Education/Hugh Hodgson School of Music

Athens, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Music Education

Valdosta state university.

College of Education and Human Services

Valdosta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - P-12 Disciplinary - Music Education

Offered Online

University of St. Thomas

College of Education, Leadership and Counseling

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Learning - Music Education

Online doctor of education in educational leadership and learning - music education, columbia university in the city of new york.

Department of Arts and Humanities

New York, New York

EdD in College Teaching of Music Education

Edd in music education.

Stephanie Christensen

Colleen M. Conway

Kate Fitzpatrick

Michael Hopkins

Marie McCarthy

Carlos Xavier Rodriguez

Julie Skadsem

Music Education MMEd

Earn your music education degree online with southern miss, program-at-a-glance (graduate).

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 30

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

1-3 years   *pending hours enrolled

Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

No GRE required

Learn more about this program:

Thank you for your interest in online at southern miss.

Ready to take the next step?

Share your passion for music with the Music Education MME from The University of Southern Mississippi. If you want to instill your knowledge and influence musicians for generations, this Music Education degree will put you on the path to achieving your goals!

Our Music Education program is designed specifically for individuals who are currently teaching or involved in the professional world and want to earn their Master’s in Music Education from anywhere, at any time. This convenient and affordable online degree gives you the tools to improve your teaching techniques and offers you the opportunity to address relevant topics in music education today. Online at Southern Miss is bringing the classroom to you. Looking for more? Our enrollment coaches are here to help. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

Scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first-time, fully-online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our Student Scholarship page  now!

What can you do with a Master’s in Music Education?

A Music Education MMEd gives you an advanced knowledge in pedagogy, curriculum development, and music theory, enabling you to make significant contributions to music education at various levels and in diverse settings.

We are here to help! Our enrollment coaches are standing by to help you take the next step.

We’ll call you soon! In the meantime, learn more about us from our blog or start your application.

Required Courses (30 hours)

Undergraduate Prerequisite

Completion of a bachelor’s degree in music education at The University of Southern Mississippi or an equivalent program that included student teaching and state licensure.

The Distance program can be completed in 18 to 24 months, taking 2 to 3 courses online during the fall and spring, and 3 to 4 courses during the summer. Some courses require a two-week intensive residency occurring at the end of June.

Special Examinations

Students applying for the distance program must submit an example of writing (any research or report written in the last year or a 3 to 5 page literature review on a music education topic of choice) along with a cover letter requesting admission to the distance program.

Select 1 course:

• 13 semester hours (MED – Music Education ) Electives
• Music History Electives –  MUS 630  (may be required) (3 hrs)
• Music Theory Electives –  MUS 620   (may be required) (3 hrs)
• Ensemble (2 hrs.)- If ensembles are not available, two additional hours of electives may be substituted.  A minimum of eleven elective hours must still be MED courses.

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin . Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

For this program, you would need a license for acceptance. Licensure requirements and approval are determined by each state’s licensing board. For additional information about professional licensure, please review the Professional Licensure Disclosures web page.

To find pricing information,   visit our pricing page . For financial aid information,  view our financial aid page . For detailed tuition information,  visit our business services page .

Additional course fees for the online music education degree track may apply. Fees range between $20 – $60.

The University of Southern Mississippi provides a Senior Citizen Tuition Scholarship Program for Mississippi residents age 62 or older. Legal residents of the State of Mississippi age 62 or older may enroll tuition-free in a maximum of six (6) semester hours for the fall or spring term. Courses on all campuses (Online, Hattiesburg, and Gulf Coast) are available to senior citizens on a space available, first come first serve basis.  This scholarship program applies to fall and spring courses only.

To inquire about the availability of this scholarship, contact   Precia Pedersen at [email protected] or the  registrar’s office . 

In addition to the steps listed above for Admission Requirements, then apply through the Southern Miss Graduate School through the graduate school application portal at  http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/ .

Typically the online music education degree program is completed in 18-24 months, taking 2 or 3 courses online during the fall and spring, and 3 to 4 courses during the summer. Some courses require a two-week intensive residency occurring at the end of June.

We offer admissions in the fall. The priority deadline all deadline is June 1, and the final deadline is August 1.

No, all online classes are charged in-state tuition.

Visit our business services page and choose the term that applies to view the costs associated with part time enrollment.

No, the Online Masters in Music Education is designed for practicing teachers and no thesis is required.

Yes, comprehensive exams are given the semester the student intends to graduate and are in the area of Music Education only.

No, you can arrange to have the comprehensive exam proctored where you are located.

Yes! To view all the funding resources available to graduate students, please visit the  Graduate Admissions Funding Resources  page.

Please visit our programs page here: https://online.usm.edu/programs/

Other classes that aren’t listed may count towards your online music education degree once your transcript has been evaluated and posted.

Yes, the program is available totally online. Students are not required to visit campus for an in-class lecture; however, an online lecture may be required by your instructor.

If yes, visit  online.usm.edu/military  for more information on how Southern Miss can serve you and your needs. We will help you with funding and scholarship information, admissions, and course enrollment.

Every online music education degree student is given individualized attention through a graduate student advisor. Once admitted, you will be assigned an advisor in the music education program and receive storage space in MS Office 365 OneDrive for your documents to be shared with your advisor and the School of Music Graduate Coordinator. Directions for installing Microsoft Office 365 for free as a graduate student are found at (https://www.usm.edu/itech/microsoft-office-365

If you still have questions, please visit our FAQ page , or take a moment to fill out our form at the bottom of the screen, and we will reach out to you!

Admission Requirements

The Graduate School will be authorizing standardized test waivers to applicants to this program.

Admission Requirements Completion of a bachelor’s degree in music education at The University of Southern Mississippi or an equivalent program that included student teaching and state licensure.

Acceptance into the master’s degree programs of the School of Music requires expectations beyond those in the Graduate Bulletin. Admission to graduate study does not imply admission to candidacy for a master’s degree. A maximum of nine (9) hours of graduate work earned before one has gained admission to the School of Music can be applied toward a master’s degree. Members of all under-represented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Students seeking regular admission to master’s level programs at The University of Southern Mississippi must:

• Hold a music degree or minor in the undergraduate degree.
• Have a “B” average or better on music courses in the undergraduate degree.
• Have a grade point average of at least 2.75 (A = 4.0) on the last two years of undergraduate study.
• Writing Sample that demonstrates your ability to write original research.
• Submit at least three strong letters of recommendation and/or undergo a successful personal interview.

Students who are unable to meet regular admission standards may be considered for conditional admission.  For details concerning conditional admission, see  Admission Requirements and Procedures .

Please note: The Graduate Record Examination is required for both conditional and regular admission. Students who are admitted conditionally must go through an interview process with area faculty.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

Diagnostic Examinations

With the exception of the online Master of Music Education degree, all entering master’s students for the Master of Music Education (MME) are required to take a Diagnostic Entrance Examination in music theory and in music history & literature. The purposes of this examination are 1) to determine whether the student has foundation-level deficiencies that need to be addressed in order for her/him to be successful in graduate courses and on the comprehensive examination; and 2) to provide information that will guide the student and his/her advisor in selecting useful and appropriate academic courses.

Diagnostic Examinations are administered on campus in fall, spring, and summer each Thursday and/or Friday preceding the first day of classes or as announced by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies . Newly admitted students should always see the Coordinator for the most up-to-date information.

Students who do not pass the history diagnostic exam must enroll in MUS 630. Students who do not pass the theory diagnostic exam must enroll in MUS 620.  MUS 620 and MUS 630 must be taken in the first two semesters of graduate work. Exceptions to this requirement may be granted for the summer semester only and will be considered on an individual basis. Undergraduate music theory and/or history courses may be required as prerequisites to further study in graduate music theory or history. Students who do not pass the music theory review, or the history review (or required undergraduate courses) will not be allowed to enroll in further study in music history or music theory until the grade of “B-” or better is earned in the required course(s). MUS 620 and MUS 630 are required courses for the MME Online track.

NOTE: Only the MME (Online) students may enroll in MUS 620X and MUS 630X for graduate credit. Resident students must enroll in MUS 620 and MUS 630.

Advisory committee

Early in the first term of full-time residence or before nine (9) hours of graduate credit have been earned, the student and the major professor select those faculty who will serve as the student’s Advisory Committee. Master’s committees must include three members: 1) the major professor, 2) another professor from the major area, 3) a representative from Music Theory or Music History. Changes to this formula must be pre-approved in writing by the School of Music Director. These faculty members will help the student plan his/her program of study, attend and grade his/her recital, and prepare and grade his/her comprehensive exam.

Special Problems Courses (MUS 692, 792, MED 692, 792)

Students cannot enroll in special problems courses without appropriate approval. Petitions requesting permission to enroll are available on the School of Music website at  https://www.usm.edu/ music /forms-0

Petitions must be submitted to the Coordinator of Graduate Studies by the end of SOAR open registration. Special Problems courses demand a minimum of 45 hours work for each hour of credit earned. It is expected that the result of any problem undertaken be available for faculty examination; copies of term papers, examinations, or compositions must be turned in to the Coordinator for this purpose.

Comprehensive Exam

A written comprehensive exam is required. The test will be prepared and graded by the student’s Graduate Advisory Committee; it will cover the area of the major field.  Master’s comprehensive exams dates will be posted by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies in the summer of the ensuing Academic Year. Announcements are made approximately two (2) months prior to the exams.  The dates will be in October (fall dates may vary), April, and July. The exact dates of the examinations are determined by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies and are publicized as soon as the University’s Academic Calendar is available.

Students must register for the exam two months in advance with the Coordinator of Graduate Studies. The Coordinator of Graduate Studies must receive the results of the comprehensive examination in time to notify the University Registrar and the Graduate Office (i.e., no later than the last day of general exams for presenting signed theses to the Graduate Office).

A student who fails the Comprehensive Examination may repeat the exam once; the test must be repeated within one year of the first comprehensive examination.

The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Additionally, the online Music Education degree is also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). That means you can expect a program with the highest standards and quality.

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NO GRE REQUIRED!

The Graduate School is now offering standardized test waivers to applicants of this program for this program. There is currently no GRE requirement for this degree!

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Course Catalog

Music education, phd.

for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education

The doctoral program in music education consists of the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education. The Ph.D. is tailored to meet the varying needs and interests of individuals seeking a terminal degree in Music Education. The Ph.D. is appropriate for students with a strong background and interest in research. The Ph.D. places emphasis on research and research methodology training. Students entering the Ph.D. must have already completed a substantial thesis or research project as part of their master’s degree. 

Admission For all degree programs, consult the  admission requirements stated on the School of Music’s website .

Requirements for admission to the  Master of Music (MM)  programs are a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign or an equivalent degree from another accredited institution. Students holding other degrees may be admitted but will be expected to make up for any deficiencies and fulfill all requirements for the graduate degree.

Applicants to choral music, instrumental conducting (wind band or orchestra), jazz performance, piano pedagogy, performance and literature, and vocal accompanying and coaching must pass a qualifying audition for their major area or submit satisfactory recordings. Applicants in musicology and composition must present writings or other evidence of their ability to pursue work at the graduate level. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required.

The School of Music requires all-new MM students to complete entrance examinations in music theory and musicianship (excluding Musicology). These exams take place the week before the fall term begins. See the School of Music’s  Graduate Resources  page for more information.

A prerequisite for admission to the  Artist Diploma  is a bachelor's degree.

Applicants  to the  MM and the Artist Diploma (AD)  whose native language is not English must present an iBT score of 79 for admission to the Artist Diploma (AD), 90 for the Master of Music (MM), excluding Musicology; MM in Musicology requires an iBT score of 96. A TOEFL iBT of 103 or higher is required for Full Status Admission to the University of Illinois Graduate College and School of Music. Please see the full  English proficiency requirements . Fall admission only; other terms of entry by departmental petition approval only.

Requirements for admission to the  Master of Music in Education  (MME) are:

• Undergraduate degree in music education from an accredited institution;
• An overall grade average for the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate work of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).  The grade average for Music Education and Education courses, when averaged separately, must also be at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale);
• Recommendations from three individuals who can discuss the applicant’s musicianship, ability to undertake graduate-level study, and teaching ability/potential.
• The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required for application to the MME, nor do MME students take placement tests in music theory or music history.

For MME applicants with public school experience:

• recommendation from a principal or supervisor who speaks primarily to the quality of the applicants teaching experience;
• recommendation from an individual who speaks primarily to the quality of the applicant's musicianship;
• recommendation from an individual who speaks primarily to the applicant's potential for completion of graduate-level study;
• applicants who wish to be considered for a Teaching Assistantship should ensure that at least one of their references provides specific comments on their potential to engage in university-level teaching duties associated with such an appointment.

For MME applicants without public school experience:

• recommendation from a music education professor;
• recommendation from an applied or ensemble music professor;
• recommendation from an individual who can speak to the applicant's potential for completion of graduate study.

Applicants seeking admission to the MME + Licensure program should review the  online requirements .

Applicants  to the  MME  whose native language is not English must present an iBT score of 96 for the Master of Music Education (MME). A TOEFL iBT of 103 or higher is required for Full Status Admission to the University of Illinois Graduate College and School of Music. See the full  English proficiency requirements .

The School of Music offers an academic year program and a Summers-only MME. For academic year applications, the School of Music offers Fall admission only; spring term of entry by departmental petition approval only.

Requirements for admission to the  Doctor of Musical Arts  and the  Doctor of Philosophy  in Musicology programs are the Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign or an equivalent degree from another accredited institution.

Applicants to the  Doctor of Musical Arts  programs must have:

• a high level of proficiency in composition, conducting, or performance - candidates in composition must submit original scores for review, and candidates in performance and literature must pass a qualifying audition or submit satisfactory recordings; and
• appropriate experience in ensemble performance and/or score reading. Candidates in voice and vocal accompanying and coaching must have fulfilled all foreign language requirements considered prerequisites for the Master of Music degree, including one year of college-level study in Italian, French, and German.

The School of Music requires all new  DMA  students to complete entrance examinations in music theory, musicianship, and score reading. These exams take place the week before the fall term begins. See the School of Music’s  Graduate Resources  page for more information.

Applicants  to the  DMA or PhD  whose native language is not English must submit an iBT score of 96. A TOEFL iBT of 103 or higher is required for Full Status Admission to the University of Illinois Graduate College and School of Music.

See the full  English proficiency requirements .

See information about  admission to the MME and PhD in Music Education .

Language Requirements For the Master of Music program, applicants in voice and vocal accompanying and coaching must have had at least one year each of college-level French, German, and Italian or the equivalent. Applicants in other applied music areas, composition, conducting, and musicology must have had one year of any language at the college level or the equivalent.

All Doctor of Musical Arts candidates must demonstrate proficiency in at least one language other than English. Each area may specify which language is required or may require proficiency in more than one language. Please review the current  Graduate Music Handbook  for more details.

Proficiency is required in two languages, depending on the proposed field of specialization, for candidates in the Doctor of Philosophy in Musicology program. This may be demonstrated through two years of undergraduate study in each language.

For all Graduate Degrees:

Students who do not meet the language requirement at the time of entrance may be satisfied by evidence of two years of undergraduate study or the equivalent, or by completion of a two-semester or satisfactory test scores. For up-to-date information regarding the language requirements of the School of Music, please see the  Graduate Music Handbook .

Graduate Teaching Experience Although teaching is not a general Graduate College requirement, experience in teaching is considered an essential part of the graduate experience.

Financial Aid Fellowships, teaching, graduate, and research assistantships are awarded on a one-year basis, with continuation dependent upon success in the program. Specific information on application procedures is available from the Music Admissions Office, by phone (217) 244-7899, or  by email .

For additional details and requirements refer to the department's Graduate Handbook   and the  Graduate College Handbook . 

Other Requirements

The PhD in Music Education at Illinois emphasizes professional preparation for careers as researchers, music teacher educators, and leaders in the field. Doctoral students enroll in courses that provide depth and breadth in research approaches, theoretical and scholarly analysis, and opportunities to conduct research studies under the guidance of faculty members in music education and across campus. Participation in the MOSAIC Consortium, an ongoing scholarly community of doctoral students and faculty, is a critical part of the doctoral experience at Illinois.

• Students in the PhD Program in Music Education will demonstrate knowledge of rigorous methods for conducting scholarly inquiry related to music teaching and learning. [Research]
• Students in the PhD program in Music Education will contribute to the discovery of new evidence or the exercise of critical judgment in research and scholarship, applying and synthesizing key methodological and theoretical perspectives from their research course preparation. [Research]
• Students in the PhD Program in Music Education will develop a research agenda for primary and secondary research emphases.[Research]
• Students in the PhD Program in Music Education will demonstrate their ability to plan, implement, and reflect on college-level teaching. [Music Teacher Education]
• Students in the PhD Program in Music Education will apply understanding of educational philosophy, curriculum design, methods of teaching and evaluation, and supervision of study teaching to undergraduate music teacher preparation.[Music Teacher Education]
• Students in the PhD Program in Music Education will exhibit leadership in areas of vital importance to the field,such as curricular reform, music teacher education, community music, and social justice. [Professional Leadership]

School of Music Director of School: Dr. Linda Moorhouse Associate Director of Graduate Studies: Dr. Reynold Tharp Program Contact: Jenny Phillips School of Music Website School of Music Faculty 2040 Music Building, 1114 West Nevada Street, Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 333-3459

College of Fine & Applied Arts FAA College Website

Admissions Overview of School of Music Admissions & Requirements Music Admissions email (217) 244-7899 Graduate College Admissions

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Course Catalog | Liberty University

Doctor of music education (d.m.e.), program learning outcomes.

The student will be able to:

• Construct a culturally contextualized music teaching methodology that includes spiritual formation and Christian ethics.
• Formulate a philosophy of music education informed by the contexts of sociology, psychology, aesthetics, and a Biblical worldview.
• Design music education initiatives within the practitioner responsibilities of administration and community leadership.
• Synthesize knowledge of the literature of the discipline with the professional practices of music educators through research for the teaching environment.

Program Specific Admission Requirements

In addition to the general admission procedures, applicants to the Doctor of Music Education must meet the following requirements:

• Master degree in Music
• Master degree in Music Education
• Master degree in Music and Worship
• Or a related discipline from an accredited institution
• A graduate GPA of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale).
• TOEFL Scores for students who speak English as a second language (score of 600 paper –based test; 250 computer-based test, 80 internet-based test).

Transfer Credit

Transfer students will be required to submit transcripts for evaluation as per the normal process established by the University. Students may transfer a maximum of 21 hours of coursework from an accredited institution.  In order to be eligible for transfer credit, course work must have a minimum grade of B-, and must have been completed within the past seven (7) years. Credits from a degree on the same academic level previously earned through Liberty University are considered transfer credits.

The following courses are not eligible for transfer credit: MUSC 880 Intro Thesis Writing Project (3 c.h.) , MUSC 892 Comprehensive Exam (0 c.h.) , MUSC 888 Thesis Project Proposal Research I (4 c.h.) , MUSC 889 Thesis Project Proposal & Research II (3,5 c.h.) , and MUSC 890 Thesis Project Defense (3 c.h.) .

Delivery Format: Online Only

• Music Education (D.M.E.)
• District supervisor of music in a K‐12 environment
• College professor of music education

A student who is pursuing either of the above routes would need K‐12 teaching experience. Many students who pursue this degree will be current K‐12 music educators.

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• William Carey University
• School of Music

The Doctor of Arts in Music (DA) degree is designed to prepare musicians for careers in collegiate teaching as well as help prepare them to become leaders in their current positions as educators and worship leaders.

The philosophy of the program is to integrate in-depth preparation in a primary emphasis, either Music Education or Worship Ministry, with general studies in an interest area. The interest areas include, but are not limited to, Conducting/Performance Pedagogy, Leadership, Theology, and the Marching Arts; these interest areas are required to accommodate the diverse teaching responsibilities found in university instruction today. The School of Music core includes foundational course work in music history, music theory, and music performance.

Program Overview

The coursework can be completed in approximately 2 years. The writing phase is an additional 6 - 9 months.

Delivery Method

This program is delivered FULLY Online

Applicant Prerequisites & Requirements

In addition to meeting the university’s general requirements for graduate admission, all students applying for admission into the D.A. program must hold a master’s degree in music and must demonstrate through submitted transcripts a 3.0 GPA on all master’s level coursework. All applicants will be required to submit two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s professional and/or educational work, as well as a resume or curriculum vita, to the D.A. program coordinator. Each applicant must also demonstrate the ability to write on a graduate level through submission of a 1000-1500 word writing sample. At least 500 words will be devoted to explaining why the candidate is interested in pursuing a terminal degree. The remaining 500-1000 words will address some issue related to the candidate’s intended emphasis area. Finally, each applicant must complete a qualifying exam in music theory and music history, respectively. In addition to meeting the university’s general requirements for graduate admission, all students applying for admission into the D.A. program must hold a master’s degree in music and must demonstrate through submitted transcripts a 3.0 GPA on all master’s level coursework. All applicants will be required to submit two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s professional and/or educational work, as well as a resume or curriculum vita, to the D.A. program coordinator. Each applicant must also demonstrate the ability to write on a graduate level through submission of a 1000-1500 word writing sample. At least 500 words will be devoted to explaining why the candidate is interested in pursuing a terminal degree. The remaining 500-1000 words will address some issue related to the candidate’s intended emphasis area. Finally, each applicant must complete a qualifying exam in music theory and music history, respectively.

Note: Survey of Music Theory and/or Survey of Music History taken during the Master’s degree may count toward the DA in Music if the doctoral qualifying exams are passed.

Career Outlooks

The Fully Online Doctor of Arts in Music (DA) degree can be completed while continuing in your current career field. It is designed to prepare musicians for careers in collegiate teaching as well as help prepare them to become leaders in their current positions as educators and worship leaders.

Set Yourself Apart

We offer one of only three NASM accredited fully online music doctorates in the world. Ours has the most choices in curriculum direction and is the most affordable!

Your Future Starts Here

Whether you're embarking on your academic journey for the first time or you're a professional looking to enhance your career, the William Carey School of Music is here to accommodate you. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to connect with you and provide guidance as you take steps toward becoming the best you can be!

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How to Get a DMA or PhD in Music

If you’re a musician, you know that talent can’t be taught. Skill, on the other hand, can certainly be honed. Getting a doctorate degree in music can be a rewarding and career-boosting experience for performers and educators at every stage of their professional lives. Music is a competitive field, and a graduate degree can give you a leg up while plugging you into a global network of renowned artists and superstar professors.

This guide can help you weigh your options and walks you through every phase of the process, from researching programs to auditioning for a spot to getting into the school of your choice.

Know Your Options: PhDs and DMAs

In the United States, the Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are the prevailing terminal degrees in music. Before you start looking into schools, make sure you understand the difference between the two doctoral degree options. Not only is there overlap between the DMA and the PhD, but some schools offer both programs.

• The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA): This degree, which most students complete in three to five years, prepares gifted musicians for prominent careers in their fields while deepening their knowledge of music theory and history. DMA candidates train with leading artists, submit one or more research projects, and perform several recitals before graduation. Many schools also require them to become proficient in a foreign language. Each student chooses a specialization, which in most cases is either musical performance, composition, or conducting.
• The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music: The PhD in Music focuses less on practice and more on academic research. Students emerge after four to six years with a doctorate in a subject like musicology, ethnomusicology, or music theory. After completing a specified amount of coursework and taking a series of qualifying exams, they have to write and defend a scholarly dissertation on a topic of their choice. Most programs require students to become proficient in one or two foreign languages.

Basically, the right choice comes down to how you envision your music career. If you were born to play first bassoon for the New York Philharmonic, aim for a DMA. If you see yourself researching the social significance of Chinese opera during the Tang Dynasty, the PhD is probably the way to go.

One notable exception is music education, where the distinction between the two degrees gets a little blurry: while the PhD is more common, some schools offer a DMA instead. If that’s your focus, be sure to consider both options.

Narrow Your Search: Campus-Based vs. Online Programs

A growing number of distance education programs now offer accredited online doctorate degrees, including the DMA and the PhD in Music. Some programs allow students to take all of their classes online; others include a certain amount of campus coursework as well.

At first glance, the Internet may seem like an odd place to study a discipline in which live performance and hands-on instruction play a central role. Thanks to current technology, students can listen to and share music, watch streaming video, take exams, meet with teachers, and participate in class discussions without setting foot in a classroom. Some music educators actually believe that the online format enhances traditional music education by connecting students to scholars and performers around the world. Online learning has also made it possible for full-time music professionals–elementary school music teachers, for example–to boost their careers with an advanced degree.

If you’re not sure whether a campus or an online DMA or PhD program is right for you, ask yourself the following questions:

• What are your goals? Maybe you teach music history and want to branch out into ethnomusicology while honing your research skills. An online DMA or PhD in art & design with a specialization in Music could give you that extra knowledge without taking you away from your students. On the other hand, if you’re an electronic music composer but don’t have a cutting-edge studio at your disposal just yet, take advantage of a campus doctorate program’s resources.
• Would you be willing to relocate for your degree? If the answer is no, you’re limited to schools within commuting distance–and depending on where you live, pickings might be slim. With online education, school comes to you. You may want to expand your options by considering both campus and online DMA and PhD programs.
• How much time can you devote to your degree? Some campus programs require a year or more of full-time study, and your course schedule may conflict with your work and family responsibilities. With an online doctorate degree, you can attend class on your own time, and you can usually pause the lesson if life intervenes.
• What kind of learner are you? The freedom to learn on your own time is convenient, but it’s not for everyone. If you enjoy independent study and don’t need the structure of a classroom for motivation, you can thrive in an online learning environment. If you’re on the other end of the spectrum, save yourself countless hours of procrastination and enroll in a campus doctorate program.

Create a Shortlist of Doctorate Degree Programs

By now you’ve probably settled on the specific degree you want and decided whether to consider an online doctorate program. It’s time to start conducting research, contacting admissions offices, and visiting schools. More than 1,700 higher education institutions in the U.S. have degree-granting music programs, according to the College Music Society . Even after you eliminate those that don’t offer a DMA or PhD in Music in your area of specialization, the number of choices may seem overwhelming. The volume of information available on the Internet and beyond, can be equally overwhelming. The following resources are a great place to start:

• Online directories. Web sites like WorldWideLearn.com feature listings of campus and online doctorate degree programs in music, along with useful tips to guide you through your search and the application process. You can find accredited programs by location or subject, and you can also request information from specific schools by filling out a simple form. The College Music Society also offers an online searchable database of music faculties in U.S. and Canadian colleges and universities.
• School Web sites. Most school Web sites have a treasure trove of information about the degrees they offer. Of course, it’s important to read the section for prospective students, where you learn about the program’s prerequisites, admissions criteria, structure, and curriculum. But do some digging around and you may find a whole lot more. For example, many faculty members have their own Web pages with biographies, contact information, links to published work or blogs, and lists of the classes they teach. Some courses have dedicated pages as well, often featuring a reading list, syllabus, and bulletin board where students and instructors exchange messages. Even the alumni section of the site is worth checking out: you can often read profiles of featured alumni or download an alumni newsletter with information about graduates’ music careers.
• Your alma mater. Most colleges and universities provide professional development counseling to graduates as well as to current students. Contact the institution where you received your bachelor’s or master’s degree and ask about services for alumni who are considering graduate school. You may be able to set up an appointment with a counselor, and there may also be a resource center with graduate school guides and information about specific programs. Finally, feel free to reach out to former teachers and ask what programs they recommend.
• Professional organizations. Even if you don’t become a member, music organizations can be a great source of information, advice, and connections. Many publish online newsletters and other materials that contain articles about graduate education. You can find a wealth of useful resources on their Web sites, including guides to higher education and careers in music, and learn about networking events. Students are often eligible for discounted membership fees. Professional organizations for musicians and music educators in the U.S. include the American Federation of Musicians , the College Music Society , and the Music Teachers National Association . A complete list is available here.

Evaluating the Programs on Your Shortlist

While it may be tempting, in most cases you should not apply to every program on your shortlist. Application fees can add up fast, and each round of auditions and interviews takes time. Music students typically apply to between four and seven graduate programs. Your choice depends on your specific needs and area of specialization, but you should also take the following crucial factors into account:

• A first-class faculty. Look for programs that boast a talented, experienced, and well-rounded team of instructors. Take that a step further and single out schools with teachers you yourself would like to learn from. Email faculty members who share your interests via the school’s Web site, letting them know you’re planning to apply and would welcome the opportunity to work with them. Get a dialogue going by including one or two thoughtful questions about their work and the music program in general. You can also ask either a faculty member or an admissions officer whether you can sit in on a class or a rehearsal.
• NASM accreditation. Check whether the programs on your shortlist are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the U.S. governing body for higher education in music. This seal of approval means that NASM has visited a school’s premises and evaluated its standards, procedures, and curricula. If a program you like is missing from the NASM directory , proceed with caution but don’t rule it out completely: some reputable music schools–including several of the country’s finest–have chosen not to apply for accreditation. Visit WorldWideLearn.com for more information about accreditation and why it matters.
• Top-notch equipment and facilities. For campus-based programs, this means an adequate number of well-appointed music libraries, performance venues, practice rooms, rehearsal spaces, and instrument storage lockers. For online doctorate programs, it means a user-friendly Web interface, effective multimedia components, access to technical support, and the ability to interact regularly with professors and other students via email, electronic bulletin boards, class blogs, and chat rooms. For hybrid programs that combine campus and online courses, it means all of the above.
• Prestige. Does it matter where you get your doctorate degree or is it all about talent? Ask the very people you hope will hire you in a few years, such as university department chairs or music directors. You can find them through personal connections, your college alumni network, or networking sites you belong to. See how they feel about the schools on your shortlist, and be sure to stay in touch: those contacts can come in handy when you’re sending out resumes. Try to get an objective idea of how the various schools stack up as well. Unfortunately, U.S. News & World Report doesn’t issue rankings for graduate programs in music, but you can usually ask admissions personnel for graduation rates and information about the jobs their graduates score.
• Cost. Doctorate candidates in music often rely on federal loans to help finance their education. Many campus-based programs also offer graduate assistantships, which allow you to teach undergraduate courses in exchange for a stipend and a break on tuition. You can also look for private teaching gigs or moonlight with a local party band–just like every professional musician worth their salt has to do at some point in their lives. WorldWideLearn.com has extensive information about scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid .

How to Apply to DMA and PhD in Music Programs

Now it’s time to get down to business and send out those applications. The process and requirements vary from school to school and also depend on the degree and specialization you’ve chosen. However, you can expect most programs to ask you for the following:

• Prior degrees. In almost all cases, applicants to music doctorate programs must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in music or a related field. For the DMA, they need a Master of Music as well, although admissions committees may make exceptions for especially promising students. A PhD candidate either enters the program with a master’s degree or earns it by passing qualifying exams midway through the program.
• Standardized tests. Many music DMA and PhD programs require applicants to submit GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores. International students must demonstrate their proficiency in the English language by passing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Read more about these exams and how to prepare for them on WorldWideLearn.com.
• Audition. For applicants to degree programs in performance, composing, and conducting, the audition is a critical step in the application process. If you’re applying for a DMA in Instrumental or Vocal Performance, it’s best to audition live; in some cases, you can schedule an audition for the day you tour the school or go in for an interview. If you can’t visit or if the school requires a recorded audition, get your hands on some high-end recording equipment or hire a professional, and submit the final product on a CD. Unless you’re a conductor, steer clear of video because the audio quality can be poor.
• Letters of recommendation. Most programs require three letters of recommendation from music instructors or musicians who are familiar with your abilities, such as an ensemble director you’ve worked with. If you’ve been out of school for a few years and are asking former teachers for recommendations, send them an up-to-date version of your resume and let them know what you’ve been doing since graduation.
• Writing sample. Because research is a key component of both the PhD in Music and, to a lesser extent, the DMA, doctorate programs tend to ask for academic writing samples. This could be a paper you wrote for an undergraduate class or graduate seminar in a subject like music history or theory. If it’s been sitting in a drawer for awhile, reread it carefully and consider editing or updating the content.

No matter what program you choose, graduate school can be a decisive time in your life, and it’s up to you to make the most of the many resources at your disposal. Above all, take time to enjoy the experience of practicing and learning about your art within a community of people who share your passion for music.

• The College Music Society, Directory of Music Faculties in Colleges and Universities, U.S. and Canada, 2008-2009 Edition
• The College Music Society, Facts and Figures Concerning Music and Higher Education in the United States
• The National Association for Music Education, A Career Guide for Music Education
• Oberlin College, Guide to Graduate School for Music Students
• Research and Issues in Music Education, Volume 5, Five Challenges and Solutions in Online Music Teacher Education , by David G. Hebert

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Music Education

Bachelor of arts.

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The  Bachelor of Arts in Music Education  offers students the opportunity to prepare for careers as innovative and socially responsible music educators and leaders in arts education. Students gain the musical knowledge and pedagogical skills necessary to provide musical instruction in classroom (or general) music, instrumental music (band, orchestra and jazz ensembles), and choral/vocal music. They also learn to develop instructional programs in community settings and privately sponsored music programs. The major cultivates future teachers who capably navigate diverse school settings and who can construct instructional approaches that incorporate multiple traditional and innovative teaching methodologies to address the unique needs of their students. Students can elect to earn a California Teaching Credential as part of the Music Education major and can complete both the bachelor’s degree and the credential in just four years. In recent years, 100 percent of students who earned the credential found employment upon graduation, and typically most students find jobs in the field.

Music Education Faculty

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• School of Music – Doctoral Degrees

School of Music – Doctoral Degrees Research in the Art of Music

Why Choose Liberty University’s School of Music for Your Online Doctoral Degree Program?

Do you want to help your ministry team bring deep theological truths to your congregation through music? As one of the largest music schools in the nation, Liberty offers vast resources to help you succeed in your musical education. If you have a graduate music or music ministry degree, then Liberty’s online doctorate in worship studies program will give you the management and leadership skills you need to run a successful worship program and help your congregation grow in their faith through worship.

With Liberty’s School of Music and Worship, you can develop your approach to music and worship to reach the minds, hearts, and souls of people of all ages. To better apply the skills and knowledge you gain from our cutting-edge online learning environment, you can get hands-on training on campus with optional intensives!

Come be a part of Liberty’s mission to  Train Champions for Christ  and apply today!

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Available Music Doctorate Degrees

Doctor of music education (dme).

Liberty University offers a  Doctor of Music Education (DME) . This terminal degree focuses on practical, hands-on application so you can teach music with confidence and skill.

Throughout the program, you can learn Christian principles in music education and work on a thesis project to showcase your expertise. Additionally, you will choose elective courses to personalize your education to your personal and professional goals.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Christian Worship

Our  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Christian Worship  builds on your worship experience and previous music education by integrating a biblical focus as the basis and philosophy for scholarly worship research. You have a passion for leading others in worship, and our online PhD degree will help you expand your knowledge of worship theology, philosophy, and methodology.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music Education

Liberty’s  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music Education  is a research-focused degree that provides historical, philosophical, sociological, psychological, pedagogical, and ethical studies based on the demands of the 21st‐century music educator.

Additionally, you will create your own research concept and complete a dissertation on the concept you choose so that you can contribute to modern scholarship in the field of music education.

Doctor of Worship Studies (DWS)

We offer a  Doctor of Worship Studies (DWS)  for students who are passionate professionals in both music and ministry.

Regardless of your concentration, you will study biblical and theological issues related to worship, courses on advanced worship studies, as well as participate in research studies, where you can prepare and defend your thesis.

Choose the general track or from one of the following specializations in our DWS to tailor your doctorate to your unique personal and professional goals:

• Ethnomusicology  – Focus on understanding worship from a global perspective and how to relate to people from a variety of cultures through corporate worship.
• Leadership  – Gain a deeper knowledge of leadership best practices and how these skills can relate to your calling in music and worship.
• Pastoral Counseling  – Use your expertise in worship to help individuals, couples, and families with non-licensure counseling techniques.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Value of a Degree

At Liberty, you can strengthen your music and leadership skills and accomplish something remarkable. Earning a degree isn’t just something you do – it can be an invaluable experience. Take a look at some other reasons why earning an online doctoral degree is worth it.

Return on Investment

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides valuable information on  how a degree can impact salary prospects .  Learn more !*

Employment Opportunities

Explore  job outlook statistics  from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the following careers:  postsecondary teachers .**

Professional Connections

Mastering concepts and gaining advanced knowledge shouldn’t be the only benefits of a doctoral degree. Our world-class online learning environment is  designed to facilitate collaboration and networking .

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at  Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment  (viewed online April 19, 2024). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

**Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at  Postsecondary Teachers  (viewed online April 19, 2024). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of an online doctoral degree from liberty university.

Our online doctoral degree programs offer students great benefits, including:

• We are  recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the  top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a non-profit university. 
• Our programs are primarily offered in an 8-week course format with 8 different start dates each year and no set login times.

How can I bring God’s profound truths to my congregation through music?

Liberty University’s School of Music offers an in-depth study of how to enhance your worship ministry and better reach the world for Christ. These are just some of the theological, philosophical, and practical subjects you will study:

• The Worship Leader  – Study the many roles of the worship leader, focusing particularly on the relationship between the pastor and worship leader.
• Current Trends and Transitions in Christian Worship  – Study the current trends and issues related to contemporary worship.
• Pastoral Roles of the Worship Leader  – Get clarity on the many pastoral roles of the worship leader in the evangelical community.
• Planning and Leading Christian Worship  – Study the various responsibilities worship leaders have in building a community of well-balanced and well-received partnerships in ministry.

After graduating, you will be equipped with an in-depth understanding of the Bible and the various leadership and management responsibilities of a worship leader.

What’s special about Liberty University’s School of Music?

• Liberty’s School of Music is one of the largest music schools in the United States of America.
• Liberty University’s School of Music holds institutional accreditation through the National Association of Schools of Music ( NASM ).
• Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

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Purdue’s Online Master of Science in Communication Launches New Concentration in Digital Media and Communication Technologies

Technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and data mining have changed today’s technological landscape and the technological landscape of the future – but these technologies are also changing the ways we communicate. According to Forbes , the expansion of digital and information technology into all areas of life has started to create a noticeable social impact, increasing the speed at which people communicate, influencing the cadence of our communication, and even transcending things like language barriers. 

For professional communicators, grappling with emergent technology is nothing new. Since communication is influenced and mediated by many factors, the field has always been dynamic. Embracing change and staying ahead of new technologies is one of the primary ways communication professionals can remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.  

To help communication professionals develop in-demand skills and stay ahead of the technology curve, Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Communication program has launched a new concentration in digital media and communication technologies. The concentration, which can be completed while students pursue their master’s in communication, focuses on emerging technologies in social media, data analytics, AI and more.  

This innovative new concentration reflects the Brian Lamb School of Communication ’s commitment to offering cutting-edge education opportunities that reflect current and future trends in the communication industry. Students in the concentration will complete hands-on coursework that utilizes new communication technologies and methods, such as AI and generative language models, social media management, data storytelling, and digital media analytics. 

“We live in a perpetual beta environment, where today’s communication practitioner needs to understand emerging technologies and how best to leverage them,” said Matt Charles, continuing online lecturer and the new director of online master’s programs in the Brian Lamb School for Communication. “Led by top lecturers who live and breathe this space, the digital media and communication technologies concentration provides insights into this world and how to best navigate it.” 

We live in a perpetual beta environment, where today’s communication practitioner needs to understand emerging technologies and how best to leverage them.

Matt Charles

Continuing Online Lecturer and Director of Online Master’s Programs  Brian Lamb School for Communication 

The concentration in digital media and communication technologies adds to the diverse offerings in the online master’s in communication program, which include concentrations in strategic communication and public relations; branding and marketing; management and leadership; and health communication. The program also offers two online graduate certificates in strategic communication management and communication and leadership, which give students even more opportunities to customize their graduate education around their career goals.  

“The Lamb School’s online M.S. in Communication, and associated graduate certificates, offer students the flexibility they need to earn a degree while maintaining a healthy work-life balance,” said Charles. “Having earned a graduate degree primarily online, I believe this is a non-negotiable, especially as we live in an ever-increasing non-stop 24/7 world where the communicator always is on-call.”  

To learn more about this new concentration, please visit the online Master of Science in Communication’s webpage.