Music Education, A.A.
The Music Education Transfer Degree Program at Prairie State College provides a strong foundation in music theory, performance, and teaching methods. It prepares students to transfer to four-year colleges for a bachelor’s degree in music education or related fields, supporting a career in music teaching or further studies in music.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Music Education?
With a degree in music education, students can pursue careers as music teachers in
elementary, middle, and high schools, or work in community music programs, private
instruction, and arts organizations. They may also become music directors, choir or
band directors, or work in educational administration. Additionally, a music education
degree provides a strong foundation for further studies in music or education.
The career outlook for music educators is generally positive, with steady demand for
qualified teachers in schools across the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
projects employment of middle school, high school, and elementary school teachers,
including music educators, to grow at a rate consistent with average for all occupations.
Overall, a degree in music education offers diverse opportunities to share your passion
for music and make a meaningful impact in students’ lives.
Suggested Curriculum
This curriculum is designed for students intending to transfer into a Bachelor of
Arts program in music education. It provides a broad foundation in music theory, literature,
keyboarding, aural skills, ensemble performance, and applied instruction. Admission
to transfer programs is competitive and may require auditions or placement tests.
To teach music in Illinois public schools, teachers must obtain a state license, with
requirements available through the Illinois State Board of Education. Students should
regularly consult with academic advisors to ensure they complete the appropriate courses
for their major and licensure, as requirements may change over time.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)
Select three courses from the list for Area B with at least one course from humanities
and one from fine arts, including one English course numbered 200 or above. ART 131,
ENG 243, HUMAN 101, or PHILO 205 recommended to meet the non-Western Cultures requirement
by
some senior institutions.
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
Select one math course from the list for Area C.
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
Select one life science course and one physical science course from the list for Area D . One course must have a lab component.
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)
Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E. The following courses are recommended to fulfill teacher licensure requirements:
- HIST 201 U.S. History: 1492 to 1877 (S2 900) or
- HIST 202 U.S. History: 1877 to Present (S2 901)
- POLSC 140 Introduction to U.S. Government and Politics (S5 900)
- PSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (S6 900)
Take one musicianship course each term for a total of 16 credits.
- MUSIC 101 Musicianship I
- MUSIC 102 Musicianship II
- MUSIC 201 Musicianship III
- MUSIC 202 Musicianship IV
Select from Ensemble Groups I-IV: Take one each term for total of 4 credits.
- MUSIC 110 Concert Choir
- MUSIC 120 Wind Ensemble
- MUSIC 152 Jazz Ensemble I
- MUSIC 153 Jazz Ensemble II
- MUSIC 162 Vocal Jazz Ensemble I
- MUSIC 163 Vocal Jazz Ensemble II
Select from Applied Music Instruction I-IV (Private Music Lessons):
Take one each term for a total of 8 credits.
- MUSIC 191 Private Applied Music I
- MUSIC 192 Private Applied Music II
- MUSIC 291 Private Applied Music III
- MUSIC 292 Private Applied Music IV
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Jonathan Pierre
Associate Professor, Music Production
Email: jpierre@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708) 709-2954
Office: 3267
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
Do more with your Degree
Maximize your educational opportunities by exploring our Online programs and personalized
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transition to your next academic goal.
AcademicsOnline Learning
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Student ResourcesAcademic Advising
Need guidance on your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated academic advisors!
Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
options, our advisors are here to support you every step of the way. Don't wait—contact
us today to stay on track and achieve your goals!
