Overview

The Music Education programme at Portland State University provides a rigorous foundation for students aiming to become versatile and impactful music teachers in K-12 environments. By combining high-level music theory and performance with extensive pedagogy, the curriculum ensures that graduates are both accomplished musicians and skilled educators. Students benefit from a full year of dedicated teaching methods and hands-on instrumental training.

Why Music Education at Portland State University?

Portland State University is recognised as a national College of Distinction, reflecting its commitment to student success and inclusive excellence. The School of Music & Theater holds the prestigious All-Steinway School designation and is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. This ensures that students have access to world-class instruments and a curriculum that meets the highest national standards.

The programme distinguishes itself through a deep commitment to social justice and culturally responsive teaching. Students explore modern classroom management, diverse repertoire, and universal design to ensure music is accessible to all learners. Unique opportunities, such as participating in a social justice choir, allow future teachers to connect with the broader community while developing their professional identity.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with fundamental theory and performance, progressing to specialised pedagogy and conducting. Students gain proficiency across a wide range of instruments before selecting a specific track in their final year. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Instrumental Conducting
Choral Conducting
K-12 Teaching Methods
Music Technology
Piano
Guitar
Percussion
Mariachi

Careers with Music Education

Graduates from Portland State University are exceptionally well-prepared for the professional landscape, with those entering the Graduate Teacher Education Program achieving a 100% job placement rate for over a decade. Alumni frequently secure teaching positions within major regional districts, including Portland Public, Beaverton, and Salem-Keizer, as well as schools across the United Kingdom and internationally.

Beyond traditional classroom teaching, the degree opens pathways to various roles within the music industry and broader education sector. Graduates find success as private instructors, group lesson coordinators, or music retail specialists. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing roles as teaching assistants or educational administrators in both public and private institutions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory

Sight-Singing/Ear Training

Composition

Advanced Class Piano

Music History: 20th Century

Orchestration

Counterpoint

Conducting

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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