Music Education - BM | University of the Pacific

The Music Education degree coursework is built on an academically challenging, performance-based core curriculum allowing you to obtain a degree and California teaching credential within 4 years. You will develop teaching skills with a hands-on approach to music learning in a variety of diverse music education settings. Through technique classes, conducting, integrated fieldwork and other tools, you can expand your musicianship, confidence and perspective.

This degree requires an interview with faculty. Interviews are conducted on the same day as the live audition or by telephone if submitting a video-recorded audition.

Learn how to apply and audition.

Conservatory Admission Information

Alumnus Success

Pacific jump-starts an aspiring educator career

"The feeling that you matter is what makes the Pacific education so special. It motivates you to do your best."

Andrew Lu '19
BM, Music Education

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100%

job placement in over 20 years

Hands-on Experience

Teach in elementary, middle and high school music programs for up to 45 hours per semester, over multiple semesters.
Teach elementary music classes independently (with faculty supervision and support) for an entire semester.
Observe and assist experienced music teachers in the field.

Gain experience with instrumental, choral, general music and electives centered on incorporating new technology, a broad range of genres/styles & multi-ethnic/multicultural traditions.
Sight-read, rehearse and perform with guest school ensembles on campus.

A caring community

I was a bit nervous about how I'd fit in at Pacific, but I'm so grateful to have found a caring community where I can grow as a musician and as a person. Who we are in and outside of the classroom doesn't seem to matter because at the end of the day, we are all musicians who want to fill the world with love.

Ravyn Stanford ’22
Music Education, Percussion

Outcomes

Music Education Alumni

Our Music Education department has a long history of success in placing graduates into desirable teaching positions and graduate programs across the U.S. Graduates move forward on paths in elementary or secondary schools, private institutions or higher education. The opportunity to focus on musicianship and pedagogy gives strength in both traditional ensemble settings and innovative curriculum. Deep experiential learning in an extremely diverse community prepares Pacific graduates to serve in leadership positions within their schools, districts or professional organizations.

Pictured: Kaitlin Bove '08, '12
(BM, MM, Music Education)
Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California