Bachelor of Science in Music - Music Education - Vocal P-12

Learn how to teach and inspire through vocal music

The Bachelor of Science in Music with a concentration in Music Education (Vocal/General Music Track) at Indiana University Southeast prepares you to become a licensed music educator in both Indiana and Kentucky. This program is for students who want to teach vocal and general music in elementary, middle, or high schools. 

As a Music Education major in the Vocal/General track, you’ll learn how to:

  • Develop your musicianship and technique through vocal performace.
  • Develop vocal techniques and conducting skills for classroom and choral settings.
  • Teach general music to students across the K–12 spectrum.
  • Apply effective classroom management, assessment, and teaching strategies to your teaching practice.
  • Design developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with music education standards. Reflect on and improve your teaching practice.
  • Integrate music theory, history, and performance with hands-on teaching methods.

The curriculum combines intensive musical study with a solid foundation in the theory and methods of teaching and learning. You’ll be  supported by experienced faculty from the School of Arts & Letters and the School of Education.

Build classroom-ready skills from day one

At IU Southeast, we believe the best way to learn how to teach is by being in the classroom. That’s why our program integrates extensive field experiences in local schools throughout the region. You'll observe, assist, and lead music instruction in real K–12 classrooms, preparing you with the skills and confidence needed to be an outstanding music educator.

You’ll gain experience by:

  • Assisting in K-12 general music and choral classrooms.
  • Participating in structured field placements and student teaching opportunities.
  • Leading warm-ups, rehearsals, and classroom activities under the guidance of mentor teachers.
  • Designing developmentally appropriate lessons for diverse age groups and skill levels.Applying teaching strategies in general music and choral settings.
  • Receiving mentorship from experienced music educators in the field.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and real-world experience needed to succeed in music classrooms from elementary through high school.

Collaborate with mentors and future educators

The Music Education program at IU Southeast is a joint effort between the Music Department in the School of Arts & Letters and the School of Education, giving you access to expert faculty in both music and pedagogy. You’ll work alongside fellow students who share your passion for teaching, and you’ll be supported every step of the way with advising and academic guidance from both schools.

Application process

To join the program, students must:

  • Complete a successful audition demonstrating musicianship and technical proficiency in vocal performance. 
  • Have a minimum 2.0 high school GPA for admission to the Music Department.
  • Apply to the School of Education after completion of pre-requisite coursework with a minimum GPS of 2.5 for full admission into the School of Education.

Admission is selective, and students are encouraged to apply early and prepare thoroughly for the audition process. Once accepted, you’ll begin building your skills as both a musician and an educator.

Application and tuition information

Online application

Learn how to apply to this program.

Scholarships

Explore which scholarships are available to you.

Tuition information

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Career Information

Graduates of the Music Education program at IU Southeast are prepared to teach in elementary, middle, and high schools in the Kentuckiana region. With licensure options in both states, our alumni are actively shaping the next generation of musicians, performers, and music lovers.

  • Career options include:
  • Elementary Music Teacher
  • Middle or High School Choir Director
  • General Music Specialist
  • Vocal Coach or Ensemble Leader
  • Private Voice Instructor

Degree Information

120 Credit hours
Minimum culumulative GPA of 2.0
In-person

Degree requirements

Please visit the IU Southeast Bulletin website for specific degree requirements.

Kentucky residents

Kentucky students are part of our IU Southeast family. In fact, students from ten Kentucky counties receive in-state tuition through our reciprocity program, students from non-reciprocity Kentucky counties qualify for reduced tuition through our Indiana Partner Program, and all Kentucky students may qualify for the KEES Match Scholarship! Learn more about the advantages of attending IU Southeast, including the lowest four-year tuition rate in the region, staying close to home while you earn your degree, and the unique experience only IU Southeast can offer.

Interested in learning more or ready to apply?