COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music Education (BMEd) in Choral Licensure at The University of Southern Mississippi is a 125-hour professional degree program designed to prepare students for careers as licensed choral and vocal music educators in public and private schools. The curriculum combines intensive music training, vocal performance, conducting, pedagogy, and teacher education to develop both strong musicianship and effective classroom teaching skills. Students study music theory, ear training, music history, vocal pedagogy, choral literature, rehearsal techniques, conducting, piano competency, and advanced music methods while participating in major ensembles such as the Southern Chorale. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical experiences, rehearsal leadership, classroom observation, recital participation, and student teaching internships. Students complete six semesters of study on a primary instrument or voice area along with recital classes, music education competency exams, and choral performance activities. Professional education courses include classroom management, educational psychology, testing and measurement, exceptional children education, and advanced music teaching methods for elementary and secondary school settings. The curriculum also includes extensive student teaching experiences through MED 493 and MED 494, allowing students to apply their teaching and conducting skills in real classroom environments during their senior year. General education requirements include English composition, mathematics, sciences with laboratories, humanities, social sciences, and communication studies to ensure a balanced academic foundation. The program satisfies teacher licensure requirements established by the state of Mississippi and is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. Graduates are prepared for careers as choir directors, vocal music teachers, church music leaders, private vocal instructors, and music educators at elementary, middle school, and high school levels, while also gaining strong preparation for graduate studies in music education, conducting, or vocal performance.