Master of Music in Music Education

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a summer master's program at MSU? 
Yes. It is possible to complete a master's degree in three summers through full-time enrollment. Regular courses typically run six weeks, from the end of June to the beginning of August. Special workshop courses take place the two weeks before regular summer school and include such offerings as Gordon Music Learning Theory certification, Songwriting, and Musicians' Wellness. A limited number of credits from these courses can be applied to the master's program. For more information, including a brochure, click here.

What are other options for master's degree completion?
Master's degree courses are offered during the regular academic year in the evening for students within driving distance to campus, and these may be combined with summer study. Students may also elect to study for advanced degrees on a full-time basis; master's students on campus typically complete their degrees in two years. The program content is the same for all master's students. There is no online option for the master's degree at MSU.

Does the degree require completion of a thesis?
Students have the choice of whether to write a masters thesis as a part of their their degree programs. Two plans are available. Plan A requires completion of a thesis. Under Plan B, students take four additional credits in graduate music education courses and complete a written and oral comprehensive exam. Students determine, with the help of faculty advisors, which plan better suits their needs.

Is financial aid available?
Students who are on campus full-time during the academic year are sometimes awarded graduate assistantships or fellowships. Full-time summer master's students occasionally receive fellowship funds.