Bachelor of Science in Music Education
Instrumental music majors choose a concentration in Instrumental Music Education which prepares them to be band or orchestra directors as well as general music teachers. Students who major in Music Education, including voice, piano and guitar majors, choose a concentration in Vocal Music Education which prepares them to be choral directors and/or general music teachers.
Upon fulfilling the academic requirements of the Music Education program and passing examinations required by the New York State Education Department, students qualify for initial certification to teach music in New York State. Certification to teach in other states is available through each state’s Department of Education.
Guitar and piano students wishing to concentrate in the Instrumental Music track, must also successfully audition on a secondary orchestral wind, string or percussion instrument in addition to their primary instrument.
More Information
Suggested Four Year Course Plan
Resources
The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is the professional organization for music educators. As a Collegiate member of MENC, you will have many opportunities to network with full-time music educators, attend workshops and clinics, and participate in activities that will prepare you for your future career. There are many resources available to Collegiate members that provide information and materials that can be used for school assignments and research throughout your education. Collegiate members find that the networking opportunities available to them as MENC members have played a significant role in getting job interviews, landing jobs, and succeeding in their careers as music educators after graduation. MENC Collegiate membership provides the opportunity for you to get a head start in your profession.
The Saint Rose Jazz Education Association is the organization for all students interested in Jazz. This group brings professional jazz musicians to Saint Rose to perform and present workshops and master classes for our students. Recent guests have included Dave Brubeck, Allen Vizzuti, Dave DiPietro, Bob Mintzer, Mark Vinci, The Bad Plus, Stefon Harris, Johnny Mandel, Bill Cunliffe, Bob Sheppard, and Sherrie Maricle with DIVA.
Field Experience
Music education majors prepare for the challenges of the classroom through semester-long student teaching assignments in local schools.
Career & Graduate Study
Music education graduates may find employment in public and private schools, as well as other employment opportunities within education. Public school music teachers must earn a master’s degree within five years of their first teaching position to retain New York state certification. Our music graduates have gone on to pursue advanced study in some of the most prestigious music schools in the country, including:
