Overview

The Music Education programme at the University of South Dakota provides a creative and multi-disciplinary curriculum that prepares students for professional success in the classroom. This degree integrates rigorous musical training with practical teaching methodologies to ensure graduates are ready to lead in diverse educational settings. Students gain the expertise and poise necessary to shape the next generation of musicians.

Why Music Education at the University of South Dakota?

The university is home to the only Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in the state, offering a unique level of prestige and academic depth. Students benefit from a nearly 100% job placement rate upon graduation, reflecting the high demand for the programme's alumni. The Department of Music is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring that the curriculum meets the highest national standards.

Learners have access to world-class facilities, including the National Music Museum, which houses over 14,800 instruments from across the globe. Small class sizes allow for personalised mentorship from acclaimed faculty who are active researchers and performers. Additionally, students can participate in a wide array of ensembles, from the historic Symphony Orchestra to the award-winning USD Opera, providing unparalleled performance experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum offers specialised paths in either instrumental or vocal concentrations, while ensuring all students gain proficiency across general music teaching methods. Modules may include:

Music Performance
Music History
Music Theory
Pedagogy
Vocal Teaching Methods
Instrumental Teaching Methods
General Music Teaching Methods
Student Teaching
Practicum

Careers with Music Education

Graduates are fully prepared to meet all requirements for a South Dakota teaching license, with endorsements to teach vocal, instrumental, and general music at the K-12 level. The programme's strong emphasis on real-world experience through internships and student teaching ensures that alumni are highly competitive in the job market. Beyond the traditional classroom, graduates are equipped to pursue diverse roles in the musical landscape. Common career paths include:

K-12 Music Teacher
Ensemble Conductor
Music Composer
Professional Performer
Educational Consultant

The comprehensive training provided ensures that students can adapt their skills to various professional settings, from public schools to private conservatories and community arts organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Appreciation
Music Theory
Percussion Methods
Public School Strings Methods
Music Cultures of the World
Electronic Music

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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Credits

129 SCH

129-130

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

Music Art Education View 442 other Bachelors in Art Education in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music Education.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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