Distance education students with a passion for music and music education would be well-suited to any of these esteemed academic institutions. A complex and fulfilling pursuit, these graduate and undergraduate curricula introduce diverse groups to the most modern and popular techniques in the industry. This list will introduce curious individuals to the country’s finest programs, each of which offers flexible scheduling, fantastic resources, steadfast advising, and incredibly successful, experienced, and well-educated faculty members. There are a wide variety of options to choose from in this list, which includes unique and distinctive options.
Recommended Schools
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Liberty University is an incredibly popular online school that offers students impeccable opportunities through which to gain graduate and doctoral degrees in music. Coursework is broad, challenging, and rewarding, and several degrees revolve around music of worship. Students have access to over 50 different professors who bring worlds of knowledge to the online classroom.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 69%
Acceptance Rate: 20.2%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate or graduate institutions representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, a statement of purpose, an audition tape, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language. Applicants must also complete an admissions interview.
Program Options:
- Master in Ethnomusicology
- Master in Music and Worship
- Master in Music Education
- Master in Worship Studies
- Doctor in Worship Studies
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this Christian Music School have an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of music theory and practice. Alumni have gone on to fill various roles as teachers, coaches, researchers, and performers. The Liberty Career Center offers fabulous opportunities through which students can get further involved with their academic and professional career paths and increase their marketability.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MUSIC PROGRAMS
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BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC
Program Standouts:
Berklee College of Music is well-respected throughout the nation. The online school offers exciting Bachelors of Professional Studies programs in a wide variety of music industry concentrations. Students have opportunities in full bachelors degree programs, as well as completion programs, to deeply enhance their understanding of music.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 32%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, a video presentation or essay outlining personal goals, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language. Some applicants may also be required to submit an audition tape.
Program Options:
- Music Production
- Guitar
- Music Business
- Songwriting
- Interdisciplinary Music Studies (Create Your Own Major)
- Writing and Producing Music
- Electronic Music Production and Sound Design
- Music Composition for Film, TV, and Games
- Undeclared Option
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from any one of these programs will have finely sharpened skills in their area of professional and academic expertise. Alumni can rely on a strong network of peers and faculty members, as well as a dedicated Career Center that provides a multitude of training, workshop, internship and job opportunities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC ONLINE BACHELOR OF MUSIC PROGRAMS
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ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
The Academy of Art University is a diverse and challenging online school that provides revolutionary coursework of the same caliber as on-campus classes. Music students have the opportunity to major in an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in Music Production and Sound Design for Visual Media. Students deeply delve into the aesthetics and technology of current music production, and gain valuable experience with top-notch programs.
Campus Location: San Francisco, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Retention Rate: 76%
Acceptance Rate: 31.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts representing an exemplary GPA, and an art portfolio (not required but highly recommended).
Program Options:
- Associate of Arts
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Master of Arts
- Master of Fine Arts
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from one of these online degrees have a complex understanding of creating music for film, television, video games, or any other visual medium. Some careers occupied by Academy of Art alumni includes: composer, orchestrator, music editor, music producer, and more! Students can rely on a dedicated Career Service Department that assists them in locating, applying to, and receiving internships and jobs within the music production field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ACADEMY OF ART’S ONLINE MUSIC DEGREE PROGRAMS
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AUBURN UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Auburn University offers fabulous and highly accredited online graduate and certificate programs through which students can gain a degree in music. Supported by a strong team of academic advisors and faculty members, students enhance their understanding of music education. Auburn University is one of the most well-regarded educational institutions in the country, in which students gain invaluable learning experiences that shape their lives.
Campus Location: Auburn, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; National Association of Schools of Music; National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education; Alabama State Board of Education
Retention Rate: 77.7%
Acceptance Rate: 91%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, TOEFL scores from students who us English as a second language, and financial aid documentation.
Program Options:
- Master of Education in Music
- Education Specialist in Music
- Graduate Certificate: Community Music
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from one of these online music programs have the understanding and skill to become top-notch educators in the field who are capable of working with groups, individuals, different age levels, and community events. Career advisors help place students in exciting assistantship and internship opportunities, and provide excellent resources through which to obtain a job. Coursework leads to prominent certifications.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AUBURN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MUSIC PROGRAMS
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FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This online school offers three unique opportunities to earn a degree in music production in which students learn the complex facets of digital and audio engineering. Students in any one of these programs learn to mix audio for a wide range of platforms, and are provided with powerful, industry-level technology and software to create projects.
Campus Location: Winter Park, FL
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Retention Rate: 69%
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, a copy of a government-issued photo identification, a completed online education readiness evaluation (OERE), and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Bachelor in Music Production
- Bachelor in Audio Production
- Audio Production Certificate
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this online program have developed an expertise in the manipulation of music production software, and have the ability to start and complete projects with a great amount of thoroughness. Alumni have established impressive portfolios and are part of a large network of professionals within the industry. Career Development at Full Sail keeps students in contact with excellent job training and employment opportunities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MUSIC DEGREE PROGRAMS
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BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This prestigious American university offers two impressive programs in music education that provide numerous leadership and scholarship opportunities within the curriculum that massively supports student success within challenging coursework. Students gain a valuable understanding of teaching and theory techniques in this fulfilling program.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 93%
Acceptance Rate: 29%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online applicant, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate and/or graduate institution representing an exemplary GPA, three academic recommendations, official GRE scores, a personal statement, a musical composition or research paper, and a curriculum vitae (recommended).
Program Options:
- Master of Music in Music Education
- Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education
Degree Outcomes:
Boston University offers exciting opportunities for students to enhance their education through speciality and intensive classes. Graduates have deeply analyzed the field of music from all angles, and go on to become brilliant purveyors of music education. The Center for Career Development connects students with excellent internship and employment opportunities, as well as pathways to further their education.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOSTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MUSIC DEGREE PROGRAMS
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INDIANA UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Indiana University Online has been repeatedly recognized for its fantastic achievements as a nationally ranked educational institution. Graduate students have the opportunity to major in two quite unique areas of music: Music Technology and Music Therapy. The curricula offer fascinating opportunities to explore these areas of the discipline.
Campus Location: Bloomington, IU
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 89%
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Program Options:
- Music Technology
- Music Therapy
Degree Outcomes:
These Indiana University graduates have specialized knowledge of music, and can go on to provide invaluable knowledge to many areas, such as computer-based training and education, multimedia design, speech therapy, and centers dealing with developmental and mental disabilities. The Career Development Center offers opportunities, training, workshops, and for students to develop their skills.
LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAMS
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BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This online school offers graduate students a Master of Music Education in Teaching Artistry. These students work closely with a teaching mentor to create individualized study plans that conform to personal needs and interests within music education. The coursework is designed to enhance current teaching positions and implement stronger strategies and theories for the music classroom.
Campus Location: Bowling Green, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 76%
Acceptance Rate: 53.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Human Learning in Music
- Field Based Teaching and Learning for Music Educators
- Curriculum and Historical Perspectives for Music Educators
Degree Outcomes:
BGSU gradates have supplemented and specialized previously learned knowledge concerning music education, and exit the program as esteemed professionals. Having worked with world-class faculty members, alumni are a part of a broad network of professional peers and have worlds of information at their command. Careers include teaching in areas of all kinds!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAM
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STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This Texas university offers two online Masters of Music, each of which additionally offers exciting concentration areas to further specialize the degree in one or two areas. Students learn from experienced instructors who bring years of professional and teaching experience to the online classroom.
Campus Location: Nacogdoches, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 70%
Acceptance Rate: 58.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, letters of recommendation and an SFA recommendation, GRE/GMAT scores, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Master of Music in Music Education
- Master of Music in Theory and Composition
Degree Outcomes:
The first-rate coursework at SFA gives students on outstanding platform through which to expand their knowledge, experience, and teaching abilities in music and music theory. The Center for Career and Professional Development offers a huge amount of options and resources available to any and all students and alumni to increase their abilities as an employee/interviewee.
LEARN MORE ABOUT STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
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ROWAN UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This online school provides a distinctive and exciting major in Jazz Studies that provides intensive experience in performance, conducting, jazz studies, and composition that drastically enhances one’s understanding of a highly complex discipline. A wide variety of coursework is offered in an accelerated format, and instructs students in the many facets of jazz music.
Campus Location: Glassboro, NJ
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 43.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a current résumé or CV (optional). Applicants must complete an admission interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Analyzing Jazz Structures A, B, and C
- Jazz History
- Music Entrepreneurship
Degree Outcomes:
Students exiting this online program have the knowledge, skill, and technique to go on to major doctoral programs, performing careers, arts leadership positions, and careers as college professors and public school teachers. Rowan University’s Office of Career Advancement is a positive and friendly environment that is greatly focused on student success within their programs and positions of employment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ROWAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF MUSIC: JAZZ STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA
Program Standouts:
At the University of West Georgia, online students engage in a strongly accredited Music Education Graduate program that is well-suited for those interested in starting a career and/or pursuing a doctoral degree. Faculty members have regional, national, and international reputations in all areas of music, and students gain invaluable one-on-one experience with their teachers.
Campus Location: Carroliton, GA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 74%
Acceptance Rate: 48.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a successfully completed Graduate Music Qualifying Examination.
Sampling of Coursework:
- History and Philosophy of Music Education
- Factors of Musical Learning
- Music Theory
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program have the skill and understanding to connote their education in prominent doctoral programs in music across the country and the world, or enter into fulfilling positions of employment in scholastic environments. UWG Career Services offers specifically to online students that radically advances their standing within the job market.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF VALLEY FORGE
Program Standouts:
This highly accredited online Christian university offers graduate students a Music Technology program with three distinctive tracks through which to focus their coursework. The curriculum covers a huge range of areas that pertain to music technology. UVF also offers a multitude of outlets and resources to assist students throughout their programs.
Campus Location: Phoenixville, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; Pennsylvania Department of Education; Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Council for Christian Colleges and Universities; Commission on Christian Higher Education of the Assemblies of God
Retention Rate: 74%
Acceptance Rate: 93%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution.
Program Options:
- Production Track
- Composition Track
- Education Track
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program have a strong understanding of music production, digital video, multimedia, and music notation. Depending on their chosen area of concentration, alumni go on to fill various positions of employment within the industry in studios, schools, and other environments. Students and alumni alike can take advantage of the opportunities available within both the Student Success Center and the Career Service Center.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF VALLEY FORGE’S ONLINE MASTER IN MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
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FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Florida International University is yet another of the countries finest online schools, having received endorsement from some of the finest journalistic resources. The Master in Music Education delivers a well-focused, cutting-edge curriculum that is pointed toward providing students with adequate experience through which to improve their skills.
Campus Location: Miami, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 52.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing an exemplary GPA, a letter of intent, two letters of recommendation, a writing sample, a copy of a teacher certification, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language. Applicants must also complete an admission interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Psychological Foundations of Music Behavior
- Twentieth-Century History Survey
- Curriculum and Policy Design
Degree Outcomes:
This curriculum prepares graduates to work in all kinds of school communities! FIU alumni understand all of the most modern best practices and techniques for educating individuals in music. The Career and Talent Development Department provides support and assistance throughout each step of a student’s academic and professional careers with one-on-one counseling, training workshops, and more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM: MS IN MUSIC EDUCATION
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NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This online school offers a Master of Music: Music Education that is intended to build upon the knowledge and experience of individuals who have a undergraduate degree in the same field, in terms of stronger strategies and techniques for teaching, as well as classroom management. A strong and broad curriculum is instructed by well-experienced doctors within the discipline.
Campus Location: Cruces, NM
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 74%
Acceptance Rate: 69.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, and three letters of recommendation. Additional documentation may be required from some applicants.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Music Theory
- Music History
- Research Methods
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program have extremely well-sharpened skills in order to deliver top-notch music education in scholastic environment across the globe. The NMSU Career Services Department utilizes state-of-the-art career training resources that are available to all students and alumni, and connects them to prominent employers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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KENT STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
This highly accredited, super flexible online Master in Music Education offered through the Hugh A. Glauser School of Music gives distance education students four exciting concentrations through which they can further specialize their education. The practitioner-oriented curriculum is “exclusively designed for experienced K-12 music teachers,” and drastically improves upon individuals’ current teaching skills.
Campus Location: Kent, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 82%
Acceptance Rate: 84.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, a personal statement, a writing sample, a portfolio, and letters of recommendation.
Program Options:
- Instrumental Music – Band
- Instrumental Music – Orchestra
- General Music
- Choral Music
Degree Outcomes:
Depending upon their chosen area of concentration, graduates of this nationally ranked online school will have the expertise to work in numerous areas of music education: choral, instrumental, or general music. Kent State also operates an exceedingly successful Center for Career Exploration and Development that helps students achieve internships and positions of employment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KENT STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Rutgers University is one of the most esteemed and highly popular schools in America, and offers a Master in Music Education that supports a broad curriculum, small class sizes, and close interactions with peers and advisors. Students also work with Enrollment and Executive Coaches that supportive through every step of one’s academic process.
Campus Location: New Brunswick, NJ
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 92%
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a video of teaching, a writing sample, and a CV representing at least one year of teaching.
Program Options:
- Music History
- Music Theory
- Ethnomusicology
Degree Outcomes:
Rutgers University gives its students valuable experience and a deepened understanding of critical issues surrounding the field of music education. Throughout their academic career, students work with dedicated coaches, advisors, faculty members, and counselor who prepare them for their future or enhanced careers as music educators.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RUTGERS UNVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Students have professed extreme satisfaction with this particular online Master in Music Education program from Tarleton State University. The school offers exciting resources and opportunities for students to further enhance their education, and the program has a Thesis and Non-Thesis track, depending on how in-depth one may want to delve into the curriculum.
Campus Location: Stephenville, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; National Association of Schools of Music
Retention Rate: 68%
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, GRE and/or GMAT scores, and a personal essay.
Program Options:
- Thesis
- Non-Thesis
Degree Outcomes:
This curriculum is well-suited for individuals who are planning on entering into a prominent doctoral program, or to start/improve upon a music teaching career. Graduates have developed analytical, conceptual, technical, and pedagogical skills that ensure success in their field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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