Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

What you'll study

Coursework develops musicianship, pedagogy and practical teaching skills. Key topics and experiences listed by the program include:

• Music theory and ear training
• Music history and literature
• Music technology and computer applications
• Private lessons and participation in large and small ensembles
• Preparation to teach voice, piano, band and orchestra instruments
• Classroom analysis through metacognitive study of teaching practices
• Fundamentals of music: major/minor scales, key signatures, triads and an introduction to functional harmony
• Basic vocal technique: breathing, resonant tone production, note reading and foundational singer vocabulary aimed at healthy vocal habits
• Integration of biblical principles into professional music aspirations

The catalog also identifies many program-specific courses and course codes (for example EDU-130, EDU-296, MUS-101–301, MUS-160, MUS-261, MUS-371, MUS-490 and others); a full list and prerequisites are available in the university course catalog.

Entry requirements

Admission and progression through the School of Teacher Education require formal application and ongoing assessments. Requirements stated by the program include maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and a minimum 3.0 GPA in each teaching major (including teacher education courses). Professional education courses passed with a grade of C- or lower must be repeated. Teacher Education Program assessments include an interview and reading and writing on-demand tasks. Students apply for admission to student teaching a year before the semester in which they will student teach and must design a lesson plan assessed by faculty using a rubric.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to teach music in public and private elementary, middle and secondary schools. The program also points to broader opportunities associated with music study such as participation in industry auditions and scholarship opportunities.

Scholarships & funding angle

The program page references audition and scholarship information and directs prospective students to resources about scholarship opportunities and the audition process. IWU additionally provides tools such as a net price calculator and highlights institutional student services (for example tutoring and counseling) that can support academic success; specific scholarship amounts and eligibility are provided through the university’s admissions and scholarship offices.