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Compare Master’s in Music Education Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Master’s in Music Education Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Getting your master’s in music education can prepare you for a jump in your career. For example, this specialty degree can help you develop knowledge and skills that support a career as a high school music teacher or get a promotion as a college marching band director.

Music directors make, on average, $62,590 per year. Teachers of all types in elementary, middle, and high school environments make between $63,670 and $65,220 per year. Music teachers in post-secondary education environments make $101,500 per year on average.

The cost of a master’s degree in music education also varies. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition for a graduate degree in 2021 was $19,749 per year. Many students take around two years to complete these degree programs, but that timeline can also vary depending on whether you attend full or part-time and what type of program you attend.

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  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Master’s in Music Education degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 29 Accredited Master’s in Music Education Degree Programs

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#1
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Teachers College, Columbia University

Intelligent Score: 99.54
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $57,864

Out-of-state: $57,864

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $49,024

Out-of-state: $49,024

Test scores

SAT: 1460-1570

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
7%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
96%
Students enrolled
30,000
Student to faculty ratio
6:01
Average Salary
$78k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,049

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: musiced@tc.edu

Phone: 212-678-3285

#2
Boston, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Boston University

Intelligent Score: 99.46
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $56,854

Out-of-state: $56,854

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $56,854

Out-of-state: $56,854

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1500

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
20%
On-campus students
88%
Graduation Rate
89%
Students enrolled
33,000
Student to faculty ratio
10:01
Average Salary
$53k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,042

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: cfastu@bu.edu

Phone: 617-353-3350

#3
Los Angeles, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

University of Southern California

Intelligent Score: 99.22
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $59,260

Out-of-state: $59,260

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $47,880

Out-of-state: $47,880

Test scores

SAT: 1340-1530

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
16%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
46,000
Student to faculty ratio
9:01
Average Salary
$61k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,354

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: uscmusic@usc.edu

Phone: 213-740-8986

#4
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

New York University

Intelligent Score: 99.13
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,204

Out-of-state: $52,204

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $34,704

Out-of-state: $34,704

Test scores

SAT: 1370-1540

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
8:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,185

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music.education@nyu.edu

Phone: 212-998-5424

#5
Fredonia, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Fredonia State University of New York

Intelligent Score: 97.74
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $24,421

Out-of-state: $35,361

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $28,661

Out-of-state: $28,661

Test scores

SAT: NA

ACT: NA

Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
91%
On-campus students
74%
Graduation Rate
62%
Students enrolled
3,552
Student to faculty ratio
13-to-1
Average Salary
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $541

Non-Resident: $1,033

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music@fredonia.edu

Phone: 716-673-3151

#6
Boise, ID | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Boise State University

Intelligent Score: 97.43
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,532

Out-of-state: $22,452

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,110

Out-of-state: $7,110

Test scores

SAT: 1030-1210

ACT: 21-26

Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
77%
On-campus students
18%
Graduation Rate
55%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$36k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $772

Non-Resident: $1,826

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

33-36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music@boisestate.edu

Phone: 208-426-1596

#7
Gainesville, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Florida

Intelligent Score: 97.23
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,477

Out-of-state: $25,694

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,770

Out-of-state: $10,770

Test scores

SAT: 1290-1460

ACT: 29-33

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
31%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
89%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$16k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$600

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

33

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: musiceducation@arts.ufl.edu

Phone: 866-794-8806

#8
Kutztown, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Kutztown University

Intelligent Score: 94.64
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,716

Out-of-state: $11,574

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,288

Out-of-state: $9,288

Test scores

SAT: 950-1120

ACT: 17-24

Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
93%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
52%
Students enrolled
8,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$34k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $516

Non-Resident: $774

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music@kutztown.edu

Phone: 610-683-4550

#9
Seattle, WA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Washington - Seattle

Intelligent Score: 94.52
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,629

Out-of-state: $37,998

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,278

Out-of-state: $16,278

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1453

ACT: 27-33

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
56%
On-campus students
89%
Graduation Rate
82%
Students enrolled
48,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$15k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $731

Non-Resident: $1,275

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

51

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: musinfo@uw.edu

Phone: 206-543-1201

#10
Kapolei, HI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Hawai’i at M?noa

Intelligent Score: 94.37
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: 940-1120

ACT: 16-21

Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
95%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
39%
Students enrolled
3,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$38k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $650

Non-Resident: $1,402

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30-62

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: uhmmusic@hawaii.edu

Phone: 808-956-7756

#11
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Hunter College

Intelligent Score: 93.74
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $6,930

Out-of-state: $14,880

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,090

Out-of-state: $11,090

Test scores

SAT: 1170-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
40%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
56%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $470

Non-Resident: $855

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

39-46

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: edadmissions@hunter.cuny.edu

Phone: 212-772-4668

#12
Columbia, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Missouri

Intelligent Score: 89.15
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,330

Out-of-state: $27,612

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,478

Out-of-state: $9,478

Test scores

SAT: 1110-1320

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
On-campus students
13%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
31,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $500

Non-Resident: $1,250

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music@missouri.edu

Phone: 573-882-2604

#13
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Queens College

Intelligent Score: 88.96
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $6,930

Out-of-state: $14,880

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,090

Out-of-state: $11,090

Test scores

SAT: 1170-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
40%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
56%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $470

Non-Resident: $855

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

36-38

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: acsm@qc.cuny.edu

Phone: 718-997-3800

#14
Bronx, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Lehman College

Intelligent Score: 88.07
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $23,915

Out-of-state: $31,865

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $27,595

Out-of-state: $27,595

Test scores

SAT: 960-1080

ACT: 18-21

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
55%
On-campus students
77%
Graduation Rate
64%
Students enrolled
7,587
Student to faculty ratio
18-to-1
Average Salary
35,000
Average Student Debt
10,950

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $470

Non-Resident: $855

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

39-42

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: graduate.admissions@lehman.cuny.edu

Phone: 718-960-8777

#15
Anderson, SC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Anderson University

Intelligent Score: 87.43
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $26,820

Out-of-state: $26,820

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,140

Out-of-state: $10,140

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
59%
On-campus students
40%
Graduation Rate
57%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$31k
Average Student Debt
$27k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$485

DELIVERY FORMAT

Hybrid

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

32

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: info@anderson.edu

Phone: 765-641-4544

#16
Brooklyn, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Brooklyn College

Intelligent Score: 86.97
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $32,627

Out-of-state: $40,577

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $29,975

Out-of-state: $29,975

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1180

ACT: 22-29

Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
55%
On-campus students
91%
Graduation Rate
57%
Students enrolled
8,540
Student to faculty ratio
13-to-1
Average Salary
43,900
Average Student Debt
18,822

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $470

Non-Resident: $855

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

36

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: grads@brooklyn.cuny.edu

Phone: 718-951-4536

#17
Norfolk, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Old Dominion University

Intelligent Score: 86.84
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,029

Out-of-state: $26,664

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,207

Out-of-state: $10,207

Test scores

SAT: 960-1170

ACT: 18-25

Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
95%
On-campus students
5%
Graduation Rate
53%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$38k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $599

Non-Resident: $1,439

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

34

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: gradadmit@odu.edu

Phone: 757-683-3685

#18
University Park, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Pennsylvania State University

Intelligent Score: 86.72
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,025

Out-of-state: $24,413

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $22,464

Out-of-state: $22,464

Test scores

SAT: 1070-1300

ACT: 24-29

Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
78%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
90,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
N/A
Average Student Debt
N/A

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $1,061

Non-Resident: $1,875

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

National Association of Schools of Music

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

30

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: music-gr-adm@psu.edu

Phone: 814-863-0418

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How to Choose a Master’s in Music Education Degree Program

Choose your area of study

Always begin research into graduate degree programs with your own goals. What do you hope to achieve in seeking a master’s in music education, and how will it impact your career? Answering these questions helps you understand what type of program and concentration might be best.

Some examples of concentrations offered by schools that have master’s in music education degree programs include:

  • Music studies and teaching. These programs focus on teaching strategies and the skills you need to pass music knowledge to students.
  • Conducting. A concentration in conducting can help you prepare for a career in orchestra or band leadership.
  • Performance. Programs with a performance concentration focus on music as a performance art and may be a good choice if you want to teach in theater or fine arts programs.

Research schools and programs

Start your search online. Review program options to determine if they:

  • Are accessible: Some programs are more competitive than others, and you should review admissions requirements to see if you qualify.
  • Fit your budget: In-state public schools tend to be the most cost-effective options, but private schools may offer affordable programs and financial aid, too.
  • Support your learning style: Online and hybrid programs are convenient, but they don’t work well for every learner and may not be ideal when working on performance skills.

Prepare for tests and applications

Admission test requirements vary by program and school. Many schools don’t require GRE or other test scores, especially for applicants who have a related bachelor’s degree or professional experience. Because you need time to schedule testing, sit required exams, and receive your scores, review admission guidelines early to understand whether there are testing requirements.

Other application requirements might also take some prep work. If you need letters of recommendation, make a list of people you can ask. Have a few backups in case some letters fall through, and provide plenty of time for people to do this favor for you.

Select your program

It’s typically a good idea to apply to more than one program. Consider all your options and choose two to three schools to apply to — that way, if you don’t get into your first-choice program, you have some backups.

Once you receive any acceptance letters, you can consider your options. Dig a bit deeper into all the details, including the cost of the programs, classes, timelines, and whether the school offers unique learning opportunities.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Make a plan for covering the cost of your degree before you officially sign up for classes. Complete the FAFSA to find out what type of federal student aid you might be eligible for. Grad students are considered independent, which means you won’t need to include any income related to your parents, and this opens more doors for some people for aid. Work-study programs, personal savings, and loans are other common ways grad students pay for their education.

What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Music Education Degree Program?

A master’s in music education program typically offers a selection of coursework that balances music knowledge, skills, teaching, and educational topics. Students may work on projects relevant to teaching music skills, directing and conducting performances, and creating music curriculum tools.

Your program may require you to select a concentration and participate in real-world situations relevant to your specialty. Master’s students who are already in teaching positions can often use their own classrooms as research and project grounds. While remote learning is possible and hybrid approaches common, depending on your concentration, you may not be able to complete a master’s in music education program without attending at least some in-person classes.

Some programs are targeted to existing educators as accelerated options for obtaining a master’s degree. These programs typically take a cohort approach and may take a year to complete.

Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in music education degree program

  • Music Theory. Digging deeper into music knowledge and theory helps shore up your own foundations so that you’re better able to prepare and teach students.
  • Teaching Theory and Methods. While the focus is on teaching music, this type of degree is still an educator’s degree. You’ll cover topics such as classroom management, curriculum design, and instruction.
  • Music Technology. This class helps you stay up-to-date with current music technology and learn ways to integrate and use it in teaching.
  • History of Music Education. Many programs require a history of music or a history of music education course. These classes help you see the big picture of music education and how methods have evolved over time.
  • Early Childhood Music Education. If you plan on working with younger children, an early childhood education course can help you understand how little minds think and connect with information.
  • Music and Performance. Conductors and theater leaders may want to delve into coursework that concentrates on teaching music as a performance art.  

Master’s in Music Education Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a master's in music education degree program?

The majority of graduate degree programs now offer online admission applications. After you create a short list of schools you’re interested in, review each program’s admissions requirements on the school’s website. Even though you may think all the information is online and clear, consider reaching out to the admissions office. An admissions counselor can help you understand the specific requirements of the program and may even offer some tips for customizing your application for a better chance at success.

Remember that most graduate programs require more than a completed application. You may need to write an essay, submit a video, attach letters of recommendation, and have your transcripts sent to the school. In some cases, you might also have to complete the GRE or another test.

How much does a master's in music education degree cost?

The cost of your program depends on factors such as your timeline to completion, the type of school you attend, the cost per credit hour, and how many credit hours you need to graduate.

The NCES numbers indicate that the national average for graduate program tuition is around $19,749 per year. However, programs at private schools cost more, with an average of $26,621. Tuition at a public college is likely to be much lower, especially for students who can attend as in-state residents.

As a graduate student in a music education degree program, you also have to consider the costs of supplies and equipment. You may need to invest in purchasing or renting instruments for practical coursework, and you will likely need a laptop and some technology equipment.

How long does it take to earn a master's in music education degree?

The average for most master’s in music education degree programs is two years for full-time students. Teaching and music professionals who qualify for an accelerated program may only need one year to earn their degree. If you must attend school part-time while you work or handle other obligations, it might take a few years to complete your degree program. In some cases, schools allow six or more years to complete a program for part-time students.