School of Music

Master of Music in Education

The Master of Music in Music Education at Cleveland State is designed for licensed music teachers who wish to enrich and expand their teaching skills and knowledge. Most coursework is offered in the evenings to accommodate practicing teachers, and the degree can be completed in four semesters (fall and spring only).

Music Education Faculty
Dr. Heather A. Russell, Assistant Professor, Coordinator of Music Education || (216) 687-5099 || h.a.russell@csuohio.edu
Birch Browning, Ph.D., Associate Professor Music Education; Conductor of Cleveland Winds
Trevor K. Marcho, Ph.D., College Lecturer, Music Education
William G. Zurkey, Instructor Music Education/Choral Methods
LeslieAnne Bird, Part-time Instructor, Music Education

The curriculum includes advanced coursework in music theory, music history, performance, and music teaching approaches, and culminates in either a thesis or project (the thesis and project options are described in detail in the Graduate Handbook). Several courses can be individualized to meet the specific needs and interests of students. A highlight of the program is that the practical application of theory is incorporated into assignments. Students receive active mentoring from music education faculty.

For more information about the program, including entrance* and degree requirements, visit the online Graduate Catalog, or contact the Coordinator of Music Education, Dr. Heather Russell (h.a.russell@csuohio.edu). Apply online at: csuohio.edu/graduate-admissions/graduate-admissions

*Please note that applicants must already possess a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a license to teach issued by a state in the United States or by a government teacher licensure department in another country.

Note: Tuition assistance may be available to those whose primary instrument fills a need in a CSU performing ensemble. Applicants for tuition assistance must perform an audition. The specific needs of ensembles vary from year to year. For more information, please contact Ms. Kate Bill, Student Recruiter/Enrollment Administrator (m.c.bill@csuohio.edu or music@csuohio.edu).

Students planning to specialize in music education need to provide:
  1. Two letters of recommendation. At least one must be from supervisory personnel, such as building principal, supervisor of music, university supervisor or student teaching, or cooperating teacher, who can attest to the student’s teaching ability.
  2. One or more samples of formal writing on a topic of choice in music education. Submissions will be evaluated by the music education faculty on the strength of content and on the use of the English language and appropriate scholarly apparatus.
  3. Applicants must also schedule an interview with Dr. Heather Russell, Coordinator of Music Education.

Notification of acceptance into the graduate program comes from the Graduate College.