COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Music Education at the University of New Hampshire is a highly structured professional degree program designed to prepare students for K–12 music teacher licensure in the state of New Hampshire, with additional recognition through interstate certification agreements. The program requires students to maintain strong academic and musical performance standards, including a minimum GPA of 2.8 for student teaching eligibility and specific grade requirements such as C- or better in music courses and B- or better in education courses. A key feature of the curriculum is its integration of advanced musical training with education-focused preparation, ensuring that graduates are both accomplished musicians and effective educators. The core music curriculum includes intensive study in music theory, ear training, functional piano, music history, world music, conducting, and applied performance lessons, along with participation in large and small ensembles throughout the program. Students also complete a structured sequence of music education courses that cover choral, instrumental, vocal, and classroom teaching methods, as well as specialized instruction in elementary and secondary music education. In addition, education courses such as exploring teaching, human development and learning, inclusive education methods, and supervised teaching experiences provide the pedagogical foundation required for classroom success. A significant component of the program is the requirement for ensemble participation across multiple semesters, ensuring continuous performance experience in settings such as symphony orchestra, wind symphony, concert choir, jazz band, and marching band, depending on the student’s primary instrument or voice. Students must also achieve “junior standing” before advancing to upper-level methods courses, which requires passing the PRAXIS Core Academic Skills test, completing a criminal background check, maintaining academic and musical performance standards, and demonstrating proficiency in ear training, piano, and ensemble participation. The program culminates in supervised teaching (student teaching) and public performance requirements, including a senior recital. Overall, the B.M. in Music Education blends rigorous musical training with professional teacher preparation, equipping graduates to lead music programs in elementary and secondary schools while fostering artistic growth, discipline, and educational excellence in their students.