Master's Degree in Music Education
Who is this program for?
The Master of Music in Music Education is designed for current music educators who want to enhance their teaching skills, expand their knowledge of pedagogy, and engage in advanced study of music education research and practice. It’s ideal for those seeking professional growth, leadership opportunities, or preparation for doctoral study in the field.
Program Overview
The Master of Music with an emphasis in Music Education at the University of Kentucky is designed to inspire and empower music educators who are ready to take their teaching to the next level. Graduate work can count toward Rank changes (Rank II or Rank I) in Kentucky.
The School of Music offers the Master of Music (M.M.) with specialty areas in music education (e.g., Instrumental Teaching or Conducting, Choral Teaching or Conducting, and General Music -Dalcroze Eurhythmics or Orff Schulwerk.) This program blends advanced coursework in music theory, history, and education with opportunities for hands-on research and practical application in the classroom. Whether you're looking to deepen your pedagogical expertise, explore new teaching methods, or prepare for leadership roles in music education, this program offers the tools, mentorship, and flexibility to help you succeed in today’s evolving educational landscape.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)—the principal U.S. accreditor for higher education in music. This esteemed accreditation ensures our curricula, faculty, and institutional practices meet rigorous national standards—providing students with a high-quality, well-rounded education that prepares them for academic success, professional training, and transferability of credentials.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
The applicant for the MMME is expected to have earned a bachelor’s degree in music or music education.
Applicants must meet the entrance requirements of The Graduate School as well as those of the School of Music. Applicants for the MMME do not need to audition, but should contact the Division Coordinator to schedule an interview.
Applicants take entrance exams in Music History and Music Theory (written and aural) the week before classes begin to determine whether review classes are necessary in the first semester of study. Students will receive information about scheduling exams from the Director of Graduate Studies. Admission for all degrees is conditional upon passing the entrance exams or passing any required review classes with a grade of A or B before accumulating 12 credit hours.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

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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!

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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.