A student playing flute alongside a clarinetist and French horn player during a music ensemble performance in Gano Chapel.

Music Eduction

Prepare to teach and lead through music with a curriculum combining musicianship, performance, music history, theory and hands-on teaching methods.

Music

Music Education Major at William Jewell

The Music Education major prepares students to become versatile musicians and educators through extensive performance experience, music theory and history, and practical methods for teaching vocal and instrumental music. Students can pursue the major with or without teacher certification.

Billy J. Bird, the William Jewell College mascot, posing with wings spread open, framed in a circular cutout with campus trees and a red phone booth in the background.

Interests & Attributes:

  • Passionate Musician
  • Future Educators
  • Collaborative Leaders

Goals for Student Learning

Students develop a strong foundation in music theory, ear training, keyboard skills, music history, diction, composition, and performance. Through applied study and ensemble participation, students build the musicianship and confidence needed for professional musical settings.

Students gain experience across vocal and instrumental traditions, including methods for teaching elementary, secondary, vocal, band, and string music. Coursework emphasizes both musical knowledge and the practical skills needed to lead rehearsals, teach techniques, and support student musicians.

Students also develop leadership, collaboration, and communication skills through ensembles, recitals, workshops, and collaborative experiences. These experiences prepare students to work effectively with performers, educators, and communities.

More About Your Degree

The Music Education major provides extensive experience as both a musician and an educator. Students complete coursework in music theory, history, composition, musical leadership, diction, and music teaching methods while developing their skills through applied study and ensembles.

Students seeking Missouri teacher certification in music must also complete the required Secondary Education major and meet all state certification requirements. Students may alternatively complete the BS in Music followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching.

Beyond Jewell

Music Education graduates can bring their musicianship and teaching skills into schools, community organizations, churches, studios and other educational settings. The major also provides a foundation for graduate study in music, education, conducting, performance and related fields.

Faculty

Find Your Place at William Jewell