Program Description
The program of study in Music Education consists of four curricular components: freshman seminar and general education, the specialty area, professional studies, and content pedagogy (methods and internship). Upon successful completion of the program and related requirements, graduates are eligible for a Standard Professional I license to teach in the State of North Carolina. The NC Department of Public Instruction issues the teaching license based on University recommendation.
The Music Education program is one of 12 teacher education programs offered at UNCP. Music Education majors are subject to Teacher Education Program policies, admission requirements, continuation requirements, and graduation requirements. For more information about teacher education policies and requirements, turn to the previous section.
The Music Education program is accredited by the National Association for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the NC State Board of Education.
Program Standards
The Teacher Education Program standards for all education majors are described fully in the UNCP Teacher Education Program Teacher Candidate Handbook.
Program Goals and Objectives
The goal of the Music Education program is to provide comprehensive training for teachers of vocal and instrumental music. These students will have a solid foundation in the liberal arts and musical experiences which will develop their cultural sensitivity while providing programs and concerts to enrich the cultural life of the university and the community. Specifically, students majoring in Music Education will
1. a) demonstrate a mastery of performance skills in at least one major medium, b) have an adequate level of keyboard proficiency, c) participate in both large and small ensembles, and d) acquire suitable conducting and rehearsal skills;
2. demonstrate both aural and analytical skill encompassing an understanding of the basic elements of music, its forms, processes, and structures as well as the ability to place music into its proper historical, cultural, and stylistic context;
3. demonstrate the ability to create (compose and improvise) derivative or original music;
4. demonstrate knowledge of music history and literature of both Western and non-Western origin;
5. demonstrate a knowledge of current music technology;
6. demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study (K-12);
7. demonstrate the ability to a) use comprehensive assessment, b) create and foster dynamic learning environments, c) use diversity as a strength in the classroom, d) model attitudes and behaviors that reflect professional and ethical standards, e) interact effectively with others in the school, the community, and beyond, and f) advocate for quality music programs; and
8. demonstrate a) the ability to work independently, b) the ability to formulate and defend value judgments about music, and c) an understanding of the interrelationships and interdependencies among the various professions and activities that constitute the music enterprise.
Undergraduate Music Education Coordinator
Dr. Jose Rivera, Professor of Music
Coordinator Music Education Office: Moore Hall, Room 137 Phone: 910.521.6290 Email: jose.rivera@uncp.edu
National Association for Music Education (NAFME) students,
alumni, and Music Department faculty attended
the 2022 North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) Conference
in Winston-Salem, NC, November 5 - 8