COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music Education (BME) in Keyboard Music Education at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and prepares students for careers as licensed music educators with specialized expertise in piano and keyboard instruction. The program combines intensive musical training, educational coursework, conducting experience, and extensive classroom teaching practice to develop highly skilled music teachers. Students complete general education requirements alongside 16 credit hours of applied music study, including instruction in a primary performance medium and a secondary performance medium. Core music coursework develops essential musicianship, aural skills, music literacy, listening abilities, and professional competencies required for success in both teaching and performance. Students may also select theory and composition electives in areas such as jazz improvisation, music composition, music technology, counterpoint, performance analysis, and contemporary music studies to broaden their musical knowledge. Specialized keyboard studies include music history, form and analysis, orchestration, conducting, and advanced score reading. Students can choose either a performance-focused or pedagogy-focused piano track. The performance option emphasizes piano repertoire and advanced performance development, while the pedagogy option focuses on piano teaching methods, instructional materials, and supervised teaching experiences. Ensemble participation, recital attendance, and a senior recital further strengthen performance skills and professional preparation. The music education component consists of 28 credit hours covering educational foundations, diversity and inclusion, special education, literacy strategies, elementary and secondary music teaching methods, pre-student teaching experiences, and professional teaching seminars. Students also complete teaching internships in both elementary and secondary school settings, providing valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced educators. Additional coursework in psychology or human development, string rehearsal methods, wind and percussion rehearsal methods, and choral techniques ensures graduates possess broad instructional knowledge across multiple musical areas. Wichita State’s strong emphasis on applied learning allows students to gain practical teaching experience throughout the program, helping them develop confidence and classroom effectiveness before graduation. Graduates are well prepared for teacher licensure and careers as piano instructors, keyboard specialists, elementary and secondary music teachers, private studio teachers, accompanists, and music program leaders. The degree also provides an excellent foundation for graduate studies in music education, piano pedagogy, performance, conducting, and educational leadership.