Music Education Certification
Students holding a B.A. or a B.Mus. (or a higher degree) may take a series of courses leading to certification to teach in the New Jersey public schools.
There are two programs that offer certification for teaching music in the NJ schools: (1) the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)* and (b) the Post Baccalaureate Certification Program (PB). These programs are housed in the College of Education, Health, and Human Services. All music and music education courses, however, are taught through the John J. Cali School of Music. Candidates for either program require approval from both the Graduate School and the John J. Cali School of Music.
Eligibility for admission to the MAT Program in music education requires a bachelor's degree or higher in music. Admission to the Post-Baccalaureate Certification Program requires a bachelor's degree.
* Students must pass the NJ Praxis exam to be recommended for teaching certification.
What is the difference between these programs?
Although the MAT and PB have some overlap, the two programs differ in amount of graduate vs undergraduate course work as well as length of study. The Post Baccalaureate program , for instance, is equivalent to a "second" bachelor's degree in music and involves more undergraduate music work in applied, theoretical and historical areas. The MAT program (sample course sequence-PDF) , however, involves mostly graduate work including some advanced study in music teaching. Both programs offer substantial field experiences in the schools as well as a student teaching during the final semester.
In some cases, applicants may apply for admission to the PB program, complete pre-requisite undergraduate work, and transfer into the MAT program with no loss of credit. This action requires the Graduate Coordinator's approval and may involve some extra processing fees.
Comparison Chart for Music Education Programs
Length of Study
The length of time for either program depends upon the course load per semester. A full-time load is a minimum of 12 credits. In general, full-time MAT students can complete the degree within two years. Post-baccalaureate students generally require a minimum of three years for program of completion.
Undergraduate music courses are scheduled primarily during the day and rarely during the summer. Most graduate courses, however, are offered during the day, evening, and summer. A part-time course load is a maximum of 9 credits. A full-time course load is a minimum of 12 credits.
Application Process
Candidates must apply to the Graduate School for admission to the university. In addition, master degree applicants must submit scores for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). For further information contact the Graduate School or Director of Teacher Education Admissions.
Candidates must also schedule an audition to complete the admissions process.
Admissions and audition information
For more information, contact:
Dr. Lisa DeLorenzo
Graduate Coordinator of Music Education
E-mail: delorenzod@mail.montclair.edu