Music Education, MM
As one of the region’s most recognized music programs, CBU's Master of Music (MM) in Music Education degree is designed to help you live your purpose in performance, conducting and music education.
Program Intro
The Master of Music in Music Education equips music educators to elevate their skills in teaching, leadership and musicianship. Delivered online with immersive summer residencies, the program blends research-based practice, advanced conducting and pedagogy, and an emphasis on reflective professional practice, preparing graduates to lead impactful music programs in diverse educational settings.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn a Master of Music in Music Education at CBU?
Teach with purpose and conviction
Grounded in a faith-centered framework and ethical practice, this program equips music educators to reflect on their professional calling and to lead with integrity, compassion and excellence in both public and private school settings. Graduates are prepared to serve their schools and communities with strengthened purpose and creativity, and with a deep commitment to advancing meaningful impact through the performing arts.
Grow as an educator and conductor
Designed for today’s working music teachers, the program emphasizes practical, research-informed strategies that strengthen teaching, leadership and musicianship. Students develop advanced conducting skills, refine rehearsal techniques and explore innovative pedagogies that directly translate to K–12 classrooms and ensembles.
Learn in a format built for working teachers
Courses are delivered online during the fall and spring semesters, allowing educators to progress at their own pace during the school year. Immersive summer residencies bring students to campus to conduct live ensembles, receive real-time faculty feedback and engage deeply in pedagogy, literature and analysis—without stepping away from their teaching careers.
Prepare to lead transformative music programs
With a focus on relevant, applied learning, graduates are equipped to design engaging curriculum, elevate ensemble performance and advocate for strong music programs in diverse educational settings. The program prepares educators for career advancement, increased earning potential and lasting influence in their schools and communities.
What You'll Learn
Students in CBU's Master of Music in Music Education program will learn to:
- Design innovative, research-informed curricula that address diverse student populations in K-12 music education settings
- Conduct musical ensembles with advanced technique and artistry, demonstrating effective rehearsal strategies and expressive leadership.
- Analyze educational policies, trends, and psychological principles to inform effective and ethical practices in music education.
- Integrate faith-centered ethical principles and values into diverse professional music education contexts.
- Evaluate emerging research to address instructional challenges and contribute to the advancement of the music education field.
- Synthesize knowledge of diverse musical traditions into culturally responsive teaching practices.
Program Details
MUS 529: Voice and Vision in Music Education
This course challenges students to develop their professional voice as music educators and articulate a compelling vision for leadership in educational settings. Students explore leadership theories, reflect on their personal and professional identities, and design practical strategies for leading students, ensembles, and educational initiatives. Emphasis is placed on ethical leadership, advocacy, and cultivating an authentic, transformative presence in the music classroom and beyond.
MUS 570: Conducting Methods I
Conducting Methods I is one of two consecutive summer-residency practicum courses focused on developing conducting skills for choral, instrumental, and jazz ensembles from elementary through high school levels. Through workshops, masterclasses, and live conducting labs, students strengthen their technical proficiency, ensemble leadership, rehearsal communication, and stylistic versatility across diverse educational settings.
MUS 539: Innovative Practices and Pedagogies in Music Learning
This course examines contemporary and emerging pedagogical approaches in music learning environments. Students explore innovative teaching strategies, technology integration, culturally responsive practices, and creative curriculum models that reflect current research and trends. Emphasis is placed on designing and implementing engaging, student-centered experiences that foster musical growth and lifelong learning.
1. When do classes meet?
This graduate program is designed to accommodate busy schedules of working professionals.
During the academic year, classes are online, allowing students to complete coursework
according to a schedule that fits their busy lives. In the summer, there is a residency
where students meet in-person, having the opportunity to work on the podium with ensembles.
2. How many students are in the typical class?
Class sizes are intentionally kept small, providing an excellent faculty-to-student
ratio and allowing students direct access to personalized instruction and mentorship.
3. Are scholarships available?
Scholarships are available for students who participate in performance groups. If
you are interested in qualifying for a performance scholarship, please contact the
School of Performing Arts to schedule an audition.
Angela Park, D.M.A.
Professor of Music
Director of Music Education
Office Phone: 951-343-4928
E-mail: apark@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: HMUS219
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by highly experienced professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 | November 1 |
| Standard | August 1 | December 1 |
Career Possibilities
Graduates of CBU's Master of Music in Music Education program can apply their field of study to a variety of careers.
- Public School Music Teacher, K-12
- Private School Music Teacher, K-12
- Community Music Director
- Church Music Director
- Arts Administrator
- College Instructor
- Fine Arts Administrator
- Private Studio Teacher
- Conductor
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.