A student plays the clarinet during a steel band practice in the Kincaid Concert Hall.

Music Education

Part of: Music Department, Education Department

Offered as: Major Emphasis, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Music Major

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: Elementary Education, Music Major, Music Industry, Music Technology

Part of: Music Department, Education Department

Offered as: Major Emphasis, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Music Major

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: Elementary Education, Music Major, Music Industry, Music Technology

Inspire the next generation of musicians.

​Western’s music education program is designed for students passionate about sharing the art of music with learners from kindergarten through 12th grade. This comprehensive program combines rigorous coursework in music theory, history, and performance with pedagogical training tailored for diverse classroom settings. Students receive weekly one-hour lessons on their principal instrument or voice, ensuring they develop both technical proficiency and teaching skills. The program culminates in a year-long clinical residency, providing hands-on teaching experience in real-world classrooms. ​

While Western provides the academic and practical foundation necessary for a career in music education, the Colorado Department of Education oversees the licensure process. Graduates of our program will be well-prepared to meet the state’s licensure requirements, which include holding a bachelor’s degree in music, demonstrating content knowledge through coursework or examinations, and completing an approved teacher preparation program. With dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities like the Kincaid Concert Hall, and a commitment to excellence, Western equips future music educators to inspire and lead the next generation of virtuosos, composers, producers, and more.

Hands-On Opportunities

Music Education Requirements

Emphasis
Licensure

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

A licensure complements a degree and is awarded by entities other than Western. Often awarded by the state for teaching, it is a public and professional assurance that state teaching standards are met and the student is prepared to teach.

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Top Skills

Applying to Teach in Public Schools
Education Policy
Ensemble Directing
Improvisation
Instrumental Pedagogy
Music Pedagogy
Music Technology
Private Teaching
Student Teaching
Voice Pedagogy

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Career Pathways

Band Director
Choir Director
Music Lesson Teacher
Orchestra Director
Private Studio Teacher
Public School Music Teacher

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

Start with the General Application—it will match you with eligible scholarships. You’ll be notified if any department-specific materials are needed.

 

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Department News

National Association of Schools of Music Accreditation

Western Colorado University’s Music Department is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their musical careers.

Faculty & Staff

Music Department

Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Quigley Hall 202
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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