COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Music Education (MME) at Wichita State University is a 32–36 credit-hour graduate program designed to enhance the professional expertise of music educators through advanced study in pedagogy, research, leadership, and musicianship. All students entering the program complete a music theory assessment and are advised into appropriate foundational coursework to ensure readiness for graduate-level study. The curriculum begins with core courses totaling 16–17 credit hours, including MUSE 871 History and Philosophy of Music Education, MUSE 855 Psychology of Music, MUSE 853 Research Design and Methods, and MUSE 821 Leadership and Administration in Music Education, which together build a strong foundation in educational theory, research practice, and instructional leadership. Students also complete 2 credit hours of music theory or analysis coursework selected from options such as MUSC 829 Practical Application of Tonal Analysis or MUSC 831 Music Theory Pedagogy, along with 2–3 credit hours of musicology or theory electives covering topics such as musical form, performance analysis, aesthetics, global music traditions, identity, and popular music studies, allowing for academic specialization aligned with professional goals. The program includes 13–15 credit hours of electives chosen from graduate-level music or approved non-music courses, with options for applied lessons, ensembles, workshops, or Kodály coursework, subject to advisor approval. A key component is the capstone project, worth 1–4 credit hours, which may take the form of a thesis, terminal conducting project, or specialized music education project, depending on the student’s focus and career direction. The applied learning requirement is fulfilled through one of these culminating experiences, including research design coursework, conducting projects, or thesis work, ensuring students demonstrate advanced professional competency. Overall, the MME program is designed to integrate research, leadership, and applied musicianship to prepare educators for advanced roles in schools, music programs, and educational leadership positions.