As a Music Studies major, you will gain the knowledge and teaching experience to continue on to advanced study in school-based music education.

At a Glance

  • Flexibility
    Full Time
  • Delivery Options
    On Campus
  • Degree
    BM

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What courses will you take?

Man in winter hat teaching young girl the violin.

The Music Studies and Education programs at UMass Lowell are exciting, highly creative learning environments designed to help our students realize their full potential as teachers and leaders in their communities.

Coursework focuses on musicianship, performance, and pedagogy. Extensive in-depth school and community-based teaching experiences are embedded from freshman year through graduation. 

The program emphasizes learner-centered pedagogies, working with diverse student populations, innovative methods infusing technology and creativity, preparing students for advanced study in school-based music education, studio teaching, community arts, and music outreach programs. 

Visit the Academic Catalog for:

Visit the Academic Catalog for all degree pathways, including those from prior enrollment years.

  • Acquire instrumental or vocal mastery through regular performance
  • Attain literacy in global musical culture
  • Understand core compositional and analytical techniques covering a broad variety of musical styles 
  • Develop collaborative skills through participation in ensembles

Why study music studies at UMass Lowell?

Children creating a EcoSonic Playground through a UMass Lowell Music Department project

Teacher Mentors

Work with our network of teaching professionals who mentor students at the pre-practicum and practicum levels. You will gain invaluable feedback in school classroom teaching situations.

A music teacher in the classroom teaching young students with instruments.

Masters with Initial Licensure

Prepare for a career as a music educator in a public school setting with a Master of Music Education (Teaching Certification) leading towards Initial Licensure. 

Conductor Deb Huber of the University of Massachusetts Lowell explains a musical phrase to her concert band ensemble. Image by Kevin Harkins

Expert Faculty

Work with our faculty, who are skilled educators and talented professional musicians. Small class sizes ensure that students work directly with faculty throughout their studies.

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Performance Ensembles

Join one of our many performance ensembles, including.

  • World Music Ensemble
  • Concert Band
  • Marching Band
  • University Choir
  • Chamber Singers
  • Jazz Ensemble
  • and more

What can you do with a degree in music studies?

Graduates of UMass Lowell's Music Studies program are prepared to launch careers as music educators. Our alumni have held teaching and administrative positions at elementary, middle and high schools across Massachusetts and the greater New England area.

A child from the String Project talks to a UMass Lowell student backstage.

Our graduates work in a wide range of roles including:

  • Classroom teaching
  • Music education administration
  • Conducting ensembles
  • Music arranging
  • Curriculum development
  • Research
  • Community outreach programs