B.M. in Music Teacher Preparation
Overview
The Bachelor of Music degree in Music Teacher Preparation at Biola's Conservatory of the Performing Arts will help you develop the skills you need to prepare for a successful career in music education. Graduates have a nearly 100% success rate at finding teaching jobs in music education within six months of graduation, which speaks to the program’s strength and effectiveness.
Biola's music teaching community and courses prepare students to impact the world for Christ through their musical gifts and talents. The strengths of the music teacher preparation program include:
- Biola University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music
- Teaching assistantships and student teaching opportunities
- Highly respected and experienced faculty
- Strong academic preparation for graduate school
- Supportive community of dedicated Christian musicians and educators
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Challenging, private study
- Broad range of large and small ensemble experiences
- Service learning opportunities such as Dream Center Music Days and Music Education Outreach
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Courses
What will I study as a music teacher preparation major?
In addition to the general core of music courses, our comprehensive music teacher preparation program will guide you in developing skills that are critical for music directors in an educational context such as conducting, interpreting and performing music. Student conductor positions, teaching assistantships, student observation, and required student teaching provide invaluable hands-on experience that prepares you for a successful career in teaching music. Special service learning projects such as Dream Center Music Days and the Music Education Outreach program offer you a chance to apply your skills and make a difference in the lives of aspiring musicians.
Some of your courses include:
Performing Arts Forum (MUSC 200)
A significant element in any musician's growth is that they should be continually exposed to and be given the opportunity to interact with high-quality performers and thinkers. This class requires attendance at a certain number of concerts and seminars each semester; reflection papers will be assigned and participation in discussions is expected.
Vocal and Instrumental Arranging for Schools (MUSC 348)
Opera Theatre (MUSC 390)
Bible and Theology Coursework
As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.
Career Outlook and Preparation
What can you do with a Bachelor of Music in Music Teacher Preparation?
Graduates have found great success in acquiring jobs in teaching music and are leading the next generation of musicians in classrooms across the country. Our alumni have a near-100% success rate at finding jobs in music education within six months of graduation; this attests to the strength of the program and the dedication and passion of our students. Careers include:
- Primary and secondary music education teacher
- Private music instructor
- Conductor
- Chamber music coach
- Music ministry
- Band director
- Choir director
- Music ministry
- Freelance musician
- Graduate school
Professional Teacher Preparation Program (Undergraduate)
Credential candidates complete their student teaching after they graduate with their bachelor's degree. After successfully completing student teaching and the associated requirements candidates apply for the Preliminary Teaching Credential from the State of California's Commission on Teacher Credentialing. See Professional Teacher Preparation Program - Undergraduate for complete requirements.
3% job growth
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for music directors and composers is projected to be as fast as average between 2023 and 2033.
BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.
Biola gave me so much more than just a degree to enter the field of music education. The courses, communities, and professors at Biola taught me how to truly impact the world for Christ by pursuing my career with the fervor and excellence that is reflective of our Creator. The skills and disciplines I cultivated at Biola are priceless tools that will forever propel my career and desire to seek Christ in all that I do.
Music Education (Flute), B.M. '13
Admissions
Admissions Process
Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.
Program-Specific Admissions Requirements
Students interested in majoring in B.M. in Music Teacher Preparation are required to complete a Conservatory application and audition.
Schedule a Visit
Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.
