About the Program
The mission of the Music Education Program at Wiley University is to cultivate skilled, reflective, and compassionate music educators who inspire and empower diverse student populations through the transformative power of music. Grounded in the university’s historic commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and social responsibility, our program prepares graduates to teach music effectively in EC–12 classrooms across Texas and beyond. We strive to develop culturally responsive educators who honor the rich musical traditions of the past while embracing innovation and inclusivity in the classroom, the community, and the world.
About the Program
The Bachelor of Science in Music Education (EC-12) Is designed principally for students preparing to teach music at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels. EC-12 music education majors may concentrate in voice, piano, or other wind and percussion instruments. The music program serves students from within a broad liberal arts curriculum. In conjunction with the Texas higher education coordinating board, revised the rules governing educator preparation programs.
Wiley University cultivates schedules of required classes and semester hours to a standards-based system that identifies the knowledge and skills required for a beginning teacher that highlights the updated program focus. In support of these programmatic changes, Wiley University aligned these standards with the Texas essential knowledge and skills in each education class.
The Music Education program prepares students for a dynamic career in teaching and performing music through a TEA-aligned curriculum that emphasizes musical proficiency, pedagogical skills, and instructional strategies that combines theory, performance, and education courses to equip students with the foundational and practical knowledge required to teach music in Texas public schools, grades EC–12.
Program Objectives
Students will engage in coursework covering music theory, music history, instrumental and vocal techniques, conducting, and classroom management. Field-based experiences and student teaching components ensure practical exposure in real educational settings.
The Music Education program is designed to:
To provide a strong foundation in music theory, performance, and education.
To provide performance experiences for musicians of various skill levels through music ensembles, solo performances, and recitals.
To provide pedagogical concepts necessary to produce competent music teachers and musicians.
Develop effective teaching strategies that align with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).
Prepare students to meet the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) requirements for Music EC–12 certification.
Foster classroom management and student engagement skills within music education settings.
Cultivate an appreciation of diverse musical styles and cultures.
Future Job Opportunities
Certification Pathways
This program is structured to support students on a path toward Texas educator certification in Music EC–12. Certification pathways may include:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree in music education from an accredited institution.
Successful completion of educator preparation courses as approved by TEA.
Completion of field experiences, including student teaching in an EC–12 music classroom.
Passing scores on the TExES Music EC–12 (177) exam and Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) EC–12 exam.
Application for standard certification through the TEA Educator Certification Online System (ECOS).
Career Opportunities
The music education EC-12 degree program is designed for students preparing for a career
as teachers of music in public or private schools. It also provides foundation courses to pursue graduate or professional study in the field of music.
Graduates of the Music Education program are prepared for a variety of roles, including:
EC–12 Music Teacher (General, Choral, Instrumental)
Band or Orchestra Director
Choir Director
Private Music Instructor
Curriculum Specialist for Fine Arts
Graduate Studies in Music, Education, or Arts Administration
In addition, students with a strong performance background may pursue careers as performing artists, composers, or music technologists while maintaining their role in education.
