Bachelor of Education in Music

The Music Education Area at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is a comprehensive program dedicated to providing the public schools with highly trained professionals at all levels. Undergraduate study leads toward the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree and provides for concentration in one or more of two teaching areas: choral/general music, and instrumental music (band or orchestra). A State of Hawai‘i Teaching Certificate is reciprocally recognized in over 30 other states as well. A minor in music education is also available for students whose primary interest is in another related field.

Undergraduates who are interested in becoming certified to teach music in the public schools normally begin their curriculum under the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program. Following the successful completion of approximately a third to half of required coursework (about two years), students then apply for admission to the College of Education. During this application period they will undergo a review of their file and transcripts, examinations, a personal interview, and if admitted, proceed to complete the necessary coursework leading to the professional semester (student teaching) and certification.

The undergraduate program in music education offers concentrations in one of two areas: choral/general music or instrumental. These include a well-rounded list of courses in basic musicianship and teaching methods as well as many field-based, hands-on experiences for the prospective music teacher. All students pursuing this degree will receive intensive instruction in all aspects of music teaching K–12 regardless of concentration area. Music education students also participate in the Music Department’s nationally recognized ensembles and perform a solo recital during the Junior or Senior year.