A Ph.D. in Education: Music Education opens graduates up to a wide range of career possibilities. Some go on to train the next generation of music students, become college professors and conductors, or oversee music programs in K-12 schools. The program is designed to help them achieve those goals.
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of education through methods courses, observing and teaching undergraduate classes, and supervising K-12 student teaching. The broad array of courses span different academic units and help integrate the necessary skills for becoming a researcher, educator and artist. This approach helps to refine goals, philosophies and methods, producing effective educators and leaders.
Some notable institutions our graduates have gone on to work at include Bradley University, University of Houston, University of Maine, University of Nebraska, University of New Hampshire, University of Mississippi, Temple University and Towson University.
The program is comprised of at least 60 credit hours, including:
Complete course listing on Academic Catalog
The program has several notable benchmarks, including:
Cost is a major consideration when deciding whether to continue your education. Please contact the program coordinator to learn more about our two assistantships, which are awarded based on availability.
We also encourage you to learn more about costs and financial aid and funding opportunities that can make earning your degree more affordable.
Estimated costs International student costs Financial aid Funding opportunities
Participate in career-related experiences, including teaching, supervising student teaching and conducting ensembles. Leverage community ties like the partnership between the instrumental music education component and Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 50 Plus program. The 50 Plus New Horizons Band, a musical group for older adults, was founded by UMKC and a Ph.D. student serves as conducting fellow.
The UMKC Conservatory fosters a collaborative environment of artistic excellence. You'll benefit from close interactions in a vibrant metropolitan area that is rich in arts and educational opportunities.
The program's flexibility allows you to tailor studies to your specific career goals, including opportunities for teaching, conducting and research in a dynamic and supportive academic community.
Prospective students should note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission, as the final decision will be based on the overall strength of the application, interview performance and potential for distinction in the field of music education.
