Studying Music Education

The Music Education degree is for those interested in teaching music. The degree includes a complete K-12 public school music certification. As a music education major, you'll study the basic concepts of music, such as music history and theory, as well as taking instrument methods courses and private study. You have specialized classes to teach you about vocal anatomy and voice teaching. And, of course, you'll be honing your personal skills with private instruction with one of our very experienced faculty.

Becoming an Educator

Black Hills State University has a long history as a teaching institution. After completing roughly two years of your course work, you’ll apply to enter the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. In addition to your music studies, you'll take classes designed to help you better understand the processes of learning and teaching.

Real Performance Experience

You'll get regular experiences on our beautiful recital hall stage in solo performances or in one of our university sponsored ensembles such as the concert band or concert choir. You'll get the experience of working with other students and faculty in a professional performing environment. You might want to participate in the spring or summer Opera Workshops. The small class sizes and friendly environment will allow you to form relationships and develop social skills that will serve you well in your career choices.

Education Made Affordable

Black Hills State University is one of the most affordable liberal arts institutions in the country. Nevertheless, BHSU music doesn't cut corners on faculty or facilities. In addition to federal aid, there are many music scholarships available; applications must be made before February 1, and you must audition in person or send a recording by that date. Priority is given to students who have had extensive performance ensemble experience and have developed a high level of performance on at least one instrument or voice. A high grade point average and ACT scores are also considered. Work study opportunities are available and the Pep Band members receive a substantial stipend. To qualify, you must apply for university financial aid and fill out the Music Scholarship Application.

Required Core

4 MUS 110 Basic Music Theory I AND MUS 110L Lab
4 MUS 111 Basic Music Theory II AND MUS 111L Lab
3 MUS 135 Music Literature **
4 MUS 210 Advanced Music Theory I AND MUS 210L Lab
4 MUS 211 Advanced Music Theory II AND MUS 211L Lab
3 MUS 330 Music History I
3 MUS 331 Music History II
3 MUS 351 Elementary School Music Methods
2 MUS 352 Music in the Elementary School II
3 MUS 360 Conducting
3 MUS 420 Orchestration & Arranging
2 MUS 467 Advanced Conducting
MUS 185 Recital Attendance (every semester)

Select one Area of Emphasis

Instrumental Emphasis- 14 semester hours

1 MUS 373 Woodwind Instrumental Methods
1 MUS 374 Percussioni Instrumental Methods
1 MUS 375 Brass Instrumental Methods
1 MUS 377 String Instrumental Methods
3 MUS 372 Methods & Material of Teaching Piano OR
MUS 456 Instrumental Materials & Techniques
2 MUAP - 300 level Applied Instrument
1 MUAP - 400 level Applied Instrument
4 MUEN - Concert Band or Chamber Orchestra
(Students are required to participate in a large ensemble each semester)

Vocal Emphasis- 14 semester hours

1 MUS 302 Vocal Diction Class I
1 MUS 303 Vocal Diction Class II
2 MUS 341 Vocal Pedagogy & Literature
3 MUS 458 Choral Materials & Techniques
2 MUAP - 300 level Applied Voice
1 MUAP - 400 level Applied Voice
4 MUEN - 100/300 Concert Choir
(Students are required to participate in a large ensemble each semester)

Pre-Professional Teaching Core- 18 hours

1 EDFN 295 Practicum: Pre-Admission Teaching
2 EDFN 338 Foundations of American Education
3 EPSY 302 Educational Psychology
3 EPSY 428 Child & Adolescent Development
3 INED 411 South Dakota Indian Studies
3 PSYC 101 General Psychology (gen ed)
3 SPED 405 Educating Secondary Students with Disabilities

Professional K-12 Teaching Core- 16 hours

3 SEED 408 Plan, Manage & Assess the 7-12 Diverse Classroom
1 SEED 495 Practicum: Pre-Student Teaching
3 EDFN 475 Human Relations
9 ED 444 K-12 Student Teaching