Bachelor's Degree in Music Education

Music Education

Who is this program for?

A Bachelor of Music in Music Education is ideal for students who are passionate about both music and teaching, with a desire to inspire and guide the next generation of musicians. This program prepares graduates for careers as K-12 music teachers, choir directors, or band instructors, equipping them with the skills to teach music theory, performance, and music appreciation across diverse educational settings.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education provides students with a strong foundation in music performance, history and theory along with the theory and practices of music education. Our graduates are prepared for careers in K-12 music education and go on to lead bands, orchestras, choirs and classrooms across the country. UK prides itself in educating not only superior teachers but also superior musicians. For music education majors at UK, even though preparation for teaching is a primary goal, it is equally important that all students are also well-trained musicians. In most cases, there is minimal difference between the performance and academic expectations for music education majors and music performance majors. An outstanding performance faculty in voice, keyboard, strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion provides superior instruction for all music education and performance majors. 

Our Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.

The University of Kentucky is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Visit the NASM website for more information.

Related Careers

The School of Music is particularly proud that music education alumni are teaching in the public schools of at least 26 states around the country as well as in prestigious positions at major universities such as UCLA, University of Florida, Florida State University, Syracuse University, University of Colorado, Colorado State University, Middle Tennessee University and the University of Kentucky, in addition to a number of smaller colleges and universities. Graduates are licensed to teach K-12 Music Education in the state of Kentucky.

Offered by the College of Fine Arts
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Credit Hours
120
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Credential
BMME
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Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?

If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.

Admission Requirements

  • Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
  • Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.

Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.

Application Requirements

Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).

Program Specific Requirements

Students apply and enter this program as "Pre-Music Education" majors. Students are fully admitted to the program when they complete the pre-major requirements. View specifics in the Academic Catalog.

Application Deadlines

Freshman

  • Early Action
    • 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
  • Regular Decision
    • 02/15/2026

Transfer

  • Fall Scholarship
    • 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
  • Fall
    • 08/01/2025
  • Spring
    • 11/15/2025
  • Summer
    • 04/15/2026
Calendars & Deadlines

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What You'll Learn

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education program prepares students to become certified music educators equipped to teach in K–12 school settings. Students study music theory, history, and conducting, while developing their skills in vocal or instrumental performance and ensemble direction. The curriculum includes coursework in education methods, classroom management, and teaching diverse learners, along with extensive field experiences and student teaching. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan for the different focus areas available. 

Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.

University of Kentucky Accelerated Master's Pathways

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Accelerated Pathway

This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.

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Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program

These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.

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"You just can't beat the kind of environment that UK can provide. Whether you prefer the huge college experience of game day and massive classes, or the one-on-one tailored lessons from applied faculty in the arts, UK can offer you everything you need."

Chris Wheeler

Music Education
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Explore Financial Aid Options

Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.

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Expand Your Learning

Music Education majors will also gain experience in performing in outstanding ensembles, including the University Chorale, University Choristers, Men’s Chorus, Women’s Choir, Symphony Orchestra, UK Philharmonic, Wind Symphony, Symphony Band, Concert Band, Wildcat Marching Band, and three Jazz Ensembles among other smaller ensembles.

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Get Involved!

Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!

Learn About Student Organizations & Activities

Join the Creative Arts Living Learning Program

Live with and learn from other creative-minded students at UK! Plus, gain access to dedicated practice spaces and studios right where you live.  

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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.

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Things to do on this form:
Take away "Term" for Transfers - "Unknown Term"? As well as "Not in High School"
And the same for "Online"

Possibly remove the "Readmit" option.
Feel like it would be pretty easy to see if the person already exists in our system and has a program enrollment record associated with them, which would shift them from "Freshman" or "Transfer" to "Readmit"
Gatton College of Business and Economics
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