What Graduate Programs in Music Education does Towson offer? There are two programs: the Master of Science degree (34 hrs.) and the Certificate in Dalcroze, Orff, and Kodaly (15 hrs.) Request information on these programs from the Graduate Coordinator in Music Education, the School of Music, or the Graduate School.
How many years do I have to complete the program? All course work and examinations must be completed within seven years.
How do I apply for the Graduate Music Education Program? Contact the Graduate School Office 410.704.3467 or the Graduate Coordinator in Music Education and request a catalog and an application packet. This outlines the procedures and contains the appropriate forms for Graduate School and Music Program admission.
Is there an advisory examination and if so, what is it like? An advisory examination covering the topics of music history and music theory will be used by you and the Graduate Coordinator as a guide in your selection of courses. When you receive acceptance into the program, you will be informed of the next possible date to take the examination and procedures for signing-up.
What courses should I take? Contact the Graduate Coordinator to schedule an appointment to determine what courses are required and projected dates when they will be offered. Outlining your program in advance will help you be assured of completion within the seven(7) year time limit on a schedule you can live with.
How often should I see the Graduate Coordinator? At the minimum, meet with the Graduate Coordinator at the beginning of your program to outline a plan of study, after about 20 hours of course work, before you enroll in the Graduate Project or when there are any major changes in you life which will impact your plan of studies.
When are Graduate classes offered? Graduate classes are generally scheduled during the Fall and Spring semesters after 4:30 in the afternoon. Summer workshops are mostly one week, all day, 2 credit courses. Specific required courses such as "Trends", "Research", and "Seminar in Instrumental or Vocal Music" are offered on a rotating basis. This is one reason it is important to schedule an appointment with the Graduate Coordinator to plan your course of study.
What courses are available next semester? How do I register? A "Schedule of Courses" booklet is usually available about 4 weeks before registration for each semester. This publication includes course information as well as registration instructions and fees. It may be picked up in the library or through the mail by contacting: Towson University/ Graduate School/ 8000 York Road/Towson, MD 21252-0001/ 410.704.2501. Course information is also available through the Towson University homepage wwwnew.towson.edu/music.
Summer Workshop registration procedures sometimes differ from the regular University course registration. If the course booklet lists your course as a "Summer Workshop", contact Dr. Jothen or Mary Ann Criss, Assistant to the Chairperson 410.704.2836 mcriss@towson.edu.
I'm coming up on the date to renew my teaching certification; how can I get enough credits? Plan ahead! Towson offers many 1 week, 1 and 2 credit workshops during the summer as well as three credit classes during the Fall and Spring semesters that will both help you meet your certification requirements, enrich your teaching and set you on a path for an advanced degree or Certificate. Contact the Graduate Coordinator for information.
How do I sign-up for a Graduate Project? The semester before you anticipate signing up for MUSC 897, Graduate Project in Music, contact the Graduate Coordinator. Preliminary discussions concerning the nature of your graduate project will be outlined at that time. Individuals contemplating a Graduate Project in the areas of Composition, Recital or Teaching Practicum should consult with Dr. Jothen as early in their graduate studies as possible.
What is the "Comprehensive Examination"? The Comprehensive Examination is designed as an opportunity for a program participant to demonstrate their ability to address significant issues in music education. Given in an essay format, it includes questions based on the course content of "Trends in Music Education", Seminar in Choral or Instrumental Music" and "Research Methods in Music Education" specifically. In addition, it asks candidates to relate additional musical information to their particular teaching setting. It takes approximately 3 hours.
How do I sign up for the "Comprehensive Examination" and when is it offered? Before the end of the third week of the Fall or Spring semester and after completing approximately 20 hours of course work including "Trends", "Research" and "Choral or Instrumental Seminar", send a letter to the Graduate Coordinator indicating that you desire to complete this examination during the appropriate semester. You will then be sent a letter of instructions, study sheet to help you prepare and questions to prepare in advance. The examination is offered on Saturday of the first week in November and April.