»BM (Pre-Music Education Certification)

Chapman University’s Bachelor of Music (BM) in Pre-Music Education Certification provides a comprehensive foundation for aspiring 21^st-century music educators, equipping them with the pedagogical knowledge and musical expertise needed to teach music at the PreK–12 level. Our program combines rigorous coursework with immersive, hands-on teaching experiences, ensuring that graduates develop both their performance skills and teaching abilities.

Designed for students passionate about both music and teaching, our program prepares students to teach in diverse school and community settings while also offering a direct pathway into the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Music program. Upon completion of the MAT, students earn both a master’s degree and a California teaching credential, fully qualifying them as PreK–12 music educators and positioning them for salary advancement. All graduates of the program have successfully secured teaching positions in schools, beginning their careers as educators immediately after graduation.

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Getting Started

• Complete the Common Application.
• Select Bachelor of Music (Pre-Music Education Certificate) as intended major.
• See Conservatory Admissions page for audition requirements and further information.

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Program Highlights

• Comprehensive Music Training: A robust curriculum in music theory, history, conducting, and performance, with individualized instruction on each student's primary instrument or voice.
• Field Experience & Mentorship: Early and ongoing classroom placements in local schools, guided by experienced and credentialed music educators.

• Instructional Methodologies: Training in a wide range of pedagogical approaches such as Orff, Kodály, band, orchestra, choir, general music, early childhood music, world music pedagogy, music technology, and applied lessons.
• Research-Driven Education: Coursework grounded in culturally responsive pedagogy, constructivist approaches, social justice education, and developmental learning theories, providing graduates with the ability to support diverse learners effectively.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to host and attend on-campus clinics, engage with leading scholars and practitioners, and present at national and international music education conferences.
• Elective Opportunities: Specialized coursework to deepen expertise and tailor the program to individual career goals.

• Pathway to Certification: Graduates transition directly into Chapman's MAT in Music program, completing their master's degree and teaching credential in just one year—positioning them for accelerated career placement and salary advancement.
• Mariachi Panteras: A student-led mariachi ensemble mentored by music education faculty offering immersive performance experience in one of the fastest-growing areas of music education while highlighting the program's commitment to culturally responsive teaching.

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Career Pathways in Music Education

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of meaningful careers, including:

Teaching & Direct Instruction

• PreK–12 Music Teacher (band, orchestra, choir, general music, mariachi, contemporary music, etc.)
• Early Childhood Music Educator
• Special Education Music Teacher
• Private Music Instructor/Studio Teacher (instrumental, vocal, theory)
• Teaching Artist (in schools, community programs, or arts organizations)
• College/University Music Faculty

Leadership & Administration

• Fine Arts Director (school district level)
• Music Education Administrator (schools or nonprofit arts organizations)
• Community Music Program Director
• Arts Administrator

Performance & Conducting

• Professional Musician
• Choir, Band, or Orchestra Conductor
• Music Festival Performer/Organizer

Curriculum & Pedagogy

• Music Curriculum Specialist
• Music Instructional Coach
• Educational Consultant (music-focused)
• Composer or Arranger of Educational Music Materials

Therapy & Specialized Education

• Music Therapist
• Special Needs/Adaptive Music Specialist

Technology & Innovation

• Music Technology Specialist
• Developer of Educational Music Software/Products
• Media/Arts Integration Specialist

Research & Scholarship

• Music Education Researcher
• Author/Writer in Music Education (textbooks, curricula, children's music materials, etc.)
• Music Librarian (education-focused)

International & Community Work

• Global/International Music Educator
• Cultural Exchange & Outreach Facilitator
• Nonprofit or NGO Music Program Leader

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Music Education Faculty

We are proud to have a faculty of award-winning educators, accomplished performers, and respected scholars, each holding California teaching credentials and actively teaching in local PreK–12 schools. Our instructors lead thriving music programs and bring current, real-world expertise directly into our university classrooms. Through statewide and national recognition, we remain deeply committed to mentoring future music teachers, advancing innovative pedagogy, and driving transformative research, all while making a meaningful impact on the field of music education.

Why choose Chapman University?

• Expert Faculty: Students are mentored by distinguished musicians and educators who are deeply committed to developing their skills as performers and future educators.

• Small Class Sizes: The program offers personalized instruction and a supportive, collaborative learning environment that ensures individualized attention for each student.
• Career Preparation: Graduates are prepared to enter advanced certification programs or pursue graduate studies, positioning them for success in PreK–12 music education. Chapman’s Master of Arts in Teaching Music Program allows students to obtain both a master’s degree and teaching credential in just one year.