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Music Education, BS

Central to Performing Your Passion. 

Central’s BS in Music Education provides students with the knowledge and skills in music and music education needed for certification to teach music (PK12) in public schools in Connecticut. Our students develop a strong foundation of musicianship and musical knowledge that is essential to be a successful music educator by participating in large ensembles and private lessons as well as completing coursework in music theory, music history, and music technology. By learning and applying pedagogy and instructional methods in choral, instrumental, and general music education, our graduates are prepared for successful careers in music education. 

  • Music Education students focus on voice or an instrument over seven semesters and participate in a primary ensemble (Chorale, Band, or Sinfonietta) every semester on campus. 
  • Music coursework and lesson expectations for music education majors are no different from music students in the other music degrees. There are no “lighter” musicianship courses for music education majors. 

Program Features 

  • Attend full- or part-time 
  • Small class sizes 
  • Teaching experiences in both elementary and secondary education 
  • Merit scholarships are available through the audition process 
  • Develop leadership skills and gain valuable experience in Marching Band 
  • Our Music Microcomputer Lab is unique in the Northeast
  • Numerous performance opportunities in larger ensembles Band, Jazz Band, Chorale, University Singers, and the new Vocal Jazz like Jazz Band and Vocal Jazz Ensemble 
  • Students can participate in chamber groups that range from Flute Ensemble to iPad Ensemble 
  • Faculty are actively engaged in performance and scholarship: our students work with professional performers in all areas and instruments
  • Music Technology coursework requirements distinguish the Central BS in Music Education within the region 
  • Financial aid available 
  • Free on-campus child care available
NASM Logo

Central’s Bachelor’s in Music programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

The Central Music is not as big as other music programs and that is one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much... I was able to develop great relationships with the Music Department faculty. Their doors were always open, so I always felt like I could reach out with any questions or concerns.... Central was the perfect place for my studies in music education. I had unforgettable performances, teaching experiences, professors, and friends.

Andrew Lefebvre
Music Education

Did You Know?

Since the first day of classes in 1849, Central (then called “Connecticut Normal School”) has been offering music courses and ensembles.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate competence in musicianship, to include: aural skills (e.g., sight-reading, sight-singing, dictation, and conducting) and basic keyboard skills
  2. Demonstrate competence in musicianship, to include: knowledge and application of music theory concepts and practices (e.g., score reading, analysis, basic composition, and writing about music)
  3. Demonstrate competence in musical performance on his/her primary instrument, with particular emphasis on technical precision
  4. Demonstrate competence in basic piano playing skills
  5. Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in large and small ensemble settings that result in performances or final projects
  6. Demonstrate proficiency in and exposure to a wide variety of professional-level music technology hardware and software
  7. Demonstrate effective synthesis of music comprehension, academic writing, and spoken communication.
  8. Exhibit knowledge of instructional methods as they pertain to choral, instrumental, and general music education
  9. Demonstrate application of pedagogy and instructional methods as they pertain to choral, instrumental, and general music education