Overview

The Music and Music Education (Non-Certification) M.A. at Columbia University provides a versatile academic framework for students to advance their professional expertise in the musical arts. This programme is specifically designed for those who already hold teaching credentials or do not require formal state certification for their career goals. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that balances practical musicianship with theoretical scholarship.

Why Music and Music Education (Non-Certification) at Columbia University?

This programme stands out for its customisable approach, allowing students to align their studies with specific professional interests and artistic needs. Participants benefit from the extensive resources of Teachers College, including access to studio music lessons and diverse ensemble opportunities. The curriculum is structured around four core pillars—pedagogy, research, music literacies, and performance—ensuring a well-rounded development of the modern music educator. Furthermore, the requirement to take courses outside the immediate programme encourages an interdisciplinary perspective, broadening the student's academic background within a world-renowned institution.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 19179 per semester
National fee: USD 19179 per semester
Local fee: USD 19179 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 32 points, including coursework in pedagogy, research, and musicianship. Modules may include:

Designing Musical Experiences for Young Children
Music Education
Instrumental Experiences with Children
Creativity and Problem Solving in Music Education
Philosophical Perspectives of Music Education
Teaching of Applied Studio Music
Children's Musical Development
Voice Pedagogy
Comprehensive Musicianship

Careers with Music and Music Education (Non-Certification)

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of roles within the music industry and educational sector. The course is particularly suited for those pursuing careers in private studio teaching, community music leadership, or roles within arts organisations. By completing a comprehensive portfolio that includes video recordings of teaching and performances, students graduate with a professional body of work that demonstrates their growth in musicianship, scholarship, and pedagogy. This preparation supports advancement in diverse professional settings where formal teacher certification is not a primary requirement.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Designing Musical Experiences for Young Children
Foundations of Music Education
Instrumental Experiences with Children
Creativity and Problem Solving in Music Education
Philosophical Perspectives of Music Education
Teaching of Applied Studio Music
Children's Musical Development
Voice Pedagogy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-05-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

32 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Education Music View 2514 other Masters in Education in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Online Degree Application, including Statement of Purpose and Resume
Transcripts and/or Course-by-Course Evaluations for all Undergraduate/Graduate Coursework Completed
Results from an accepted English Proficiency Exam (if applicable)
$75 Application Fee
Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
Program does not lead toward certification, applicants should already be certified or not seeking certification
Performance recordings optional (included in online application)

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year
Out-of-State

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Music and Music Education (Non-Certification).

Available Scholarships

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Music and Music Education (Non-Certification)

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