About

Appalachian State University’s graduate certificate in Music Theory Pedagogy Research and Practice is designed for high school teachers currently teaching Advanced Placement (AP) music theory courses and students interested in teaching music theory and aural skills on the collegiate level.

The program allows students to gain a focused knowledge of teaching music theory and aural skills, both through practical in-classroom teaching and through research and discovery in analytical and pedagogical courses. Students enrolled in the program will be expected to research emerging trends in general pedagogy as well as implement new approaches into their own teaching demonstrations.

The certificate also will provide students enrolled in the Master of Music in Music Performance degree program with credentials for greater flexibility in employment or support in gaining graduate assistantships.

Meet the faculty

Application Essentials

Required Entrance Exam: None

Required Number of References: 3 (to be specified in the online form)

Supplemental Information: Resume/vita (Required upload for application submission); statement of teaching philosophy.

Basic Conditions for Consideration of Admission: This program requires a remote or live interview with members of theory faculty that will include sight singing proficiency, and a video performance demonstrating proficiency on keyboard in playing prepared excerpts. Learn more

In order to provide a quality learning and teaching experience for all students, the cohort of students entering the certificate program will be limited to six students per academic year. Priority consideration will be given to students whose applications are complete by March 1.

Employers

This program began in fall 2020. Graduates will be prepared to teach:

• High School AP Music Theory
• Community College/University Music Theory and Aural Skills
• Integration of Music Theory and Aural Skills into the Private Studio