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Music Education - Instrumental (K-12)

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If you have a love of music and a passion for teaching, UAFS’s Bachelor of Music Education will allow you to combine those interests.

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is known as a leader in music education, and graduates of the music education program carry that tradition to schools throughout the region. The Bachelor of Music Education program combines a professional faculty with a challenging curriculum to develop the competencies necessary for a successful career as a music educator. The B.M.E. is offered with two areas of concentration – instrumental or vocal – and prepares students for K-12 music certification in Arkansas. 

Music helps students express themselves in ways the written or spoken word does not. Research has shown that music students score better on tests, have higher abstract reasoning skills, and experience less test or performance anxiety.
 
The B.M.E. program prepares students to teach music in kindergarten through 12th grade and to offer private instruction.
 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median wage for high school teachers in 2023 was $65,220.

Format

On Campus

Credit Hours

120

Degree Plan

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Related Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Students may choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in music which provides a broad coverage of the entire field of music while simultaneously providing the opportunity for intense study in instrumental or vocal performance. Based on their performance area, students are encouraged to develop an individual program tailored to meet their educational and career goals. 

Bachelor of Music Education - Vocal
This degree program provides students with the competencies needed for success in K-12 classrooms with an emphasis in vocal education.

Minor

This 22-hour program provides students with instruction in the core subjects of the music degree. Students may participate in music ensembles and receive private instruction in their chosen instrument.

Special Application Procedure

Students who seek a bachelor’s degree in music must possess a certain level of proficiency in their chosen instrument and complete an audition before being accepted as a music major. There is also a separate application process through the School of Education. Requirements for admission may change over time. Students must meet admission requirements current at the time of their final application for admission to the teacher education program. Information about the process will be communicated to the student by their advisor.

Upon successful completion of a Bachelor of Music Education, graduates will be able to:
  • perform with developed technical skill and stylistic refinement as both a soloist and an ensemble member.
  • demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the theoretical concepts of music and their relationship to each other with reference to works performed.
  • critically analyze, discuss, and demonstrate the use of musical concepts to present a stylistic interpretation of music performed.
  • demonstrate proficient aural and visual skills in reading and writing music including composing, arranging, and improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments.
  • demonstrate critical listening skills.
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the major Western historical music periods and music of world cultures.
  • demonstrate fundamental competence in using music technology through study and laboratory experience.
  • synthesize skills and knowledge through jury, recital, and concert performance as well as portfolio development and practice.
  • demonstrate fundamental keyboard skills with proficient ability to accompany and perform at the piano. 

NASM and CAEP Accreditation

NASM Accreditation LogoThe University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is an accredited institution of the National Association of Schools of Music. 

 

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