USM School of Music | Department of Music Education

Graduate Committee

As a Masters of Music Education candidate, there are two forms that you must complete during the first semester: 1) Graduate Committee Form, and 2) Plan of Study Form. Students in the Traditional and Licensure degree may obtain these forms from the office of the Graduate Music Coordinator in the School of Music. Students in the Hybrid degree should e-mail the to request that forms be mailed. Once the Hybrid candidate has completed the form, they should return them to the graduate coordinator so they may be signed by the candidate’s committee members.

Each Masters of Music Education student shall select three (3) faculty members to serve on their graduate committee. The purpose of the committee is to: 1) provide guidance through the degree plan, and 2) evaluate the student’s Comprehensive Examination. Two of your committee members must be from the Music Education Division. The third committee member must be from music history/music theory.

Please visit Music Education Faculty link to determine which members may best serve your needs in your desired degree plan.

Please also visit the School of Music Faculty to determine which music history or theory faculty member may best serve your needs in your desired degree plan.

Master’s Degree Committee

Each student enrolling in the Master of Music Education degree must select faculty members to serve on their committee. The purpose of the committee is to: 1) provide guidance through the degree and 2) evaluate (pass or fail) responses to the Comprehensivee Examination. For students enrolled in the Traditional and Licensure master’s degree, you must select two (2) music education professors and one (1) music history/music theory professor to serve on your committee. This information shall be included on the “Degree Plan” form which can be obtained from the .

For students enrolled in the Hybrid master’s degree, you

Traditional MMEd Curriculum

The Traditional Master of Music Education degree is an “on-campus” degree requiring 30 graduate hours and comprehensive exams. Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in music education at The University of Southern Mississippi or an equivalent program that included teacher candidacy (student teaching) and state licensure. A minimum of 18 hours of coursework must be at the 600 level or higher. A grade-point average of 3.0 is required for graduation.

The 2 X 2 plan (Two Summers) was desgined to provide expeditious means to achieving advanced certification. The master of music education degree can be earned in a concise time frame by adhering to the following guideline:

• 12 credit hours - first Summer Term
• 6 credit hours - 3 hours Fall Term + 3 hours Spring Term OR 6 during either semester
• 12 credit hours - second Summer Term + Comprehensive Exams

Traditional Master of Music Education Curriculum

REF 601 Research: Introduction and Methodology • 3 credit hours
REF 607 Curriculum Development • 3 credit hours
MED 725 Foundations and Principles of Music Education • 3 credit hours
Music Theory Elective • 3 credit hours
MUS 620 Theory Survey (3 credit hours) may be required
Music History Elective • 3 credit hours
MUS 630 History Survey (3 credit hours) may be required)
Ensemble • 2 credit hours (**)
Electives (11 of which must be in Music Education) • 13 credit hours

Click Listing of MMEd Courses and go to pages 307-308 to view course offerings.

**During summer semesters, courses may be substituted for ensemble degree requirements

MMEd Degrees

The University of Southern Mississippi delivers the Master of Music Education degree in three different formats:

1) the Traditional Master of Music Education degree
2) the Licensure Master of Music Education degree
3) the Hybrid Master of Music Education

The Traditional degree of 30 hours is an “on-campus” degree. This means the majority of the curriculum (24 of the 30 required hours) must be taken on a USM campus.

The Licensure degree is an “on-campus” degree for students who obtained a non-education degree like the Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Art degree and now wish to teach. This degree, requiring 54-57 credit hours, provides licensure to teach at the masters salary level.

The Hybrid degree, like the Traditional degree, is 30 hours in length and combines internet classrooms with local intensive sessions.

For the Traditional and Hybrid degree, at least 18 of the 30 hours of coursework must be at the 600 level or higher. A 3.0 G.P.A. is required for graduation. The degree can be completed between 18 and 24 months. Undergraduate prerequisite: completion of a bachelor’s degree in music education at The University of Southern Mississippi or an equivalent program that included student teaching and state licensure.

To learn more about the degree, please visit USM’s Masters of Music Education Degree.

Licensure (Track II) MMEd Curriculum

The “Licensure” Master of Music Education degree offers a tremendous experience and opportunity to students who wish to teach but chose a non-education field of study for their undergraduate degree. During the “Licensure” MMEd degree program, students enroll in pedagogical courses, that is the “How To Teach” courses for each group of instruments (woodwind, brasswind, percussion, strings, and choir) at various levels (primary and secondary). The Licensure MMEd degree, like the “Traditional” MMEd degree, provides the traditional learning environment and accomplishes two important goals, Licensure and a Masters of Music Education degree. Obtaining licensure affords the opportunity to teach in the public school environment with a starting salary at the AA Certificate level. Teachers with the bachelor’s degree earn a starting salary at the A Certificate level.

The total number of hours required for this degree plan (54-57 Hours Required) are greater than the hours required in the Traditional plan.

MED 548 • Choral Pedagogy• 3 hours
MED 591 • Instrumental Workshop or MED 592 • Choral Workshop• 1-3 hours
MED 731 • Conducting I • 3 hours
MED 734 • Woodwind Methods and Materials • 2 hours
MED 735 • Brass Methods and Materials • 2 hours
MED 740 • Elementary Music Methods • 3 hours
MED 737 • String Techniques and Materials • 2 hours
MED 750 • Secondary Music Methods • 3 hours
MED 610 • Student Teaching Seminar • 2 hours
MED 693-694 • Student Teaching • 10 hours
MED 501 • Marching Band Methods or MED 502 • Advanced Computer-Assisted Marching Band Drill Design • 3 hours
MED 538 • Seminar in Band Literature • 3 hours
MED 544 • Arranging for Marching Band • 3 hours
MED 624 • Practicum in Music Education • 3 hours
MED 732 • Conducting II • I-3 hours
MED 733 • Conducting Pedagogy • 3 hours
MED 735 • Brass Techniques and Materials • 2 hours
MED 736 • Percussion Techniques and Materials • 2 hours

Hybrid MMEd Curriculum

The Hybrid Master of Music Education degree is a contemporary approach to meeting the evolving educational needs of teachers in the profession. The emphasis area for this degree is intended for professionals, active in the field who are unable to attend traditional classes on the Hattiesburg campus. The Hybrid degree is an alternative to the traditional on-campus Master of Music Education degree program in that it allows teachers to participate in professional development and meet the state certification and re-certification requirements with the least amount of disruption to their teaching schedule. Course work is accessed in a combination of online and short residency programs hosted at a number of locations in Mississippi, the nation, and Western Europe. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and relevant to the needs of each participant. Through this program of study, teachers develop research and writing skills as well as aquire new methods and materials for the teaching environment. The degree is completed by 1) on-campus visits for entrance exams and orientation, comprehensive exams, 2) one and two week intensive residency courses, and weekend workshops and clinics, and 3) on-line courses.

The Hybrid MMEd degree, like the Traditional MMEd degree, requires the completion of 30 Credit Hours and Comprehensive Exam to graduate. Required courses ( * ) comprise 15 of the 30 required hours. Elective courses ( # ) comprise 11 of the remaining 15 credit hours.

Spring - Odd Years
# MED 740 • Music In Elementary Schools • 3 hours
# MED 828 • Adm. of College /Univ. Mus Programs • 3 hours

Summer - Odd Years
# (R) MED 732 • Graduate Conducting (Instrumental) • 3 hours
# (R) MED 735 • Brass Techniques • 2 hours
* (R) MUS 630 • Music History Review • 3 hours
# MED 755 • Psychology of Music • 3 hours
# MED 750 • Music in General Education • 3 hours

Fall - Odd Years
* MED 725 • Foundations & Principles of Music Education • 3 hours
# MED 755 • Psychology of Music • 3 hours
* REF 601 • Research: Indtroduction and Methodoloy • 3 hours
# (R) MED 732 • Instrumental Conducting • 3 hours

Spring - Even Years
# MED 538 • Band Literature • 2 hours
# MED 756 • Evaluation & Guidance • 3 hours

Summer - Even Years
* (R) MUS 620 • Music Theory Review • 3 hours
# (R) MED 731 • Graduate Conducting (vocal) • 3 hours
# (R) MED 734 • Woodwind Techniques and Materials • 2 hours
# MED 714 • Administration and Supervision of Secondary School Programs • 3 hours

Fall - Even Years
* REF 607 • Curriculum Development • 3 hours
* MED 725 • Foundations & Principles of Music Education • 3 hours
# MED 755 • Psychology of Music • 3 hours

(R) = Summer Residency Requirement (typically the last two weeks of June)
* = required courses for the MMEd (15 hrs)
# = elective courses for the MMEd (11 hours must be in music education; ensemble requirement can be substituted with an MED elective)

Doctoral Degree

Acceptance in the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education degree of the School of Music at the University of Southern Mississippi requires that students meet expectations beyond those stipulated in the Graduate Bulletin. Please read page 3, Acceptance in the School of Music Doctoral Handbook.

Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education degree must comply with the language requirements as specified for Doctor of Philosophy candidates in the Graduate Bulletin. The School of Music recommends one language approved by the student’s Graduate Advisory Committee and completion of REF 602, 761, and 762 to fulfill the statistics requirement. Statistics or computer science: A candidate for the Doctor of Music Education degree is required to demonstrate proficiency in statistics or computer science; at the discretion of the student’s Graduate Advisory Committee, the candidate may be required to demonstrate a reading knowledge of one modern foreign language. The following courses are required:

Credit Hours Course Number Course Name
3 REF 601 (or equivalent) Educational Research
3 MUS 702 (or equivalent) Bibliography for Music Research
3 MED 755 Psychology of Music
3 MED 825 Doctoral Seminar in Music Education
3 MED 826 Doctoral Seminar in Music Education
12 MED 898 Dissertation

The remainder of the program will be determined: 1) In the light of the student’s qualifying examination, 2) his or her interests, 3) counsel of the major professor and graduate advisory committee. In planning this program, the following minimum distribution of graduate courses (including master’s degree work) is required:

Credit Hours Course Number Course Name
30 MED - Thirty semester hours Music Education
9 MUS - Nine semester hours Music history and literature
9 MUS - Nine semester hours Music theory
9 semester hours - Professional education
3 semesters MUP - Three semesters studio performance study
The remainder of the program in approved electives

A G.P.A. of 3.0 is required for graduation. Although the Graduate Bulletin states that eighty-four (84) semester hours are required for doctoral degrees, it should be clearly understood that some candidates will be unable to receive a degree on the basis of this minimum. The distinction implied by the degree and the traditions related to it require comprehensive knowledge and demonstration of a high degree of proficiency in the major field and related areas of study as well as the ability to conduct advanced research.

Other information, including General Requirements and a Plan of Study, can be found below.

General Requirements

General requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy can be found by clicking Pages 17,20-23, and 25 of the Graduate Bulletin.

Plan of Study

Students must submit their signed, official Plan of Study Form to the Graduate Studies Office by the end of the second semester they are enrolled. Visit the Plan of Study link and “Select Your Doctoral Program.” A spreadsheet in Excel will be downloaded. Print a copy, take it to the SOM Graduate Advisor for further guidance.

PRAXIS I & II EXAM DATES

Diagnostic Exams

All entering doctoral students are required to take a Diagnostic Entrance Examination consisting of three parts: music theory, music history and literature, and expository writing.

The purposes of this examination are:
(1) to determine if the student has foundation-level deficiencies that need to be addressed in order for him/her to be successful in doctoral level courses, on the qualifying examinations, and on the comprehensive examinations;
(2) to provide information that will guide the student and his/her advisor in selecting useful and appropriate academic courses.

Diagnostic Entrance Examinations are administered on campus each Friday preceding the first day of classes in fall, spring, and summer.

9:00 a.m. New Graduate Student Orientation
9:30 a.m. Theory Diagnostic Examination
10:30 a.m. Music History and Literature Diagnostic Examination
1-5 p.m. Advisement/Course Registration/Fee Payment

Those who do not pass the diagnostic examination in one or both of these areas must:

1) Enroll in the appropriate course(s) (i.e., MUS 620: Graduate Theory Review and/or MUS 630: Graduate History Review) during the first semester of full-time study and earn a grade of “B” or better in that/those courses. Students who are pursuing graduate study part-time must complete the appropriate review course(s) before completing 12 credit hours. Appropriate undergraduate theory courses may be additional prerequisites to further study in graduate music theory.

2) Hours gained in these courses (MUS 620 and 630 and undergraduate courses) cannot be counted toward a doctoral degree. Both courses, MUS 620 and 630, must be passed during one’s first semester of matriculation. Part-time students must complete both courses before nine (9) semester hours are completed.

3) Students who do now pass the expository writing section of the Diagnostic Examination may be advised to take an appropriate writing course in the English department and will be required to take MUS 500 (“Writing about Music”), even if it is not one of their degree requirements.

4) Students with deficiencies may be required to take additional course work beyond the minimum required in the degree program.

Can the diagnostic exams be given by a proctor?

These examinations are also administered through the mail. To make the testing process feasible, a proctor, preferably a teacher in a nearby college or university, may administer the examination. Submit the name and address of the proctor to the Coordinator of Graduate Studies.

Qualifying Exams

All students complete a Qualifying Examination consisting of three written components (music theory, music history, and the student’s major area) and an interview with the student’s advisory committee. This examination must be completed during the student’s second semester of full-time doctoral study. Part-time students must complete this examination at the end of the third semester of enrollment.

The purpose of the Qualifying Examination is to determine if, after a year of doctoral course work (which may include review courses) and of independent study, the student is academically qualified to proceed with doctoral study. The exam will also guide the Advisory Committee in planning the student’s program. The interview will occur after the written portions of the examination are completed and may include questions about the written portions of the exam, about material not covered on the written portions, and about the student’s background and future plans.

The emphasis area portion of the Qualifying Examination (e.g., music education, conducting, music performance, etc.) will be graded by those members of the student’s committee representing the emphasis area. The music theory and history portions will be graded by theory and history faculty, respectively.

A scale of 1 to 5 will be used in grading Qualifying Examinations, with grades 1-2 indicating a failure and grades 3-5 indicating passing. A student who fails any part of the Qualifying Examination may, with the permission of his or her committee, repeat it. However, any course work (in the area of the exam which the student failed) enrolled in after that initial failure and before the Qualifying Examination is passed in its entirety will be considered to be remedial and will not count as doctoral course work. For example, if a student should fail all sections of the Qualifying Examination in November, the courses taken during the fall semester will count toward the degree. However, courses taken during the following spring semester would not, even if the student passes the Qualifying Examination before the end of that spring semester (i.e., in April).

As well, if a student should fail one portion (e.g., theory) of the Qualifying Examination in November, the courses taken in said area during the fall will count toward the degree. However, courses in said area taken during the following spring semester would not, even if the student passes the Qualifying Examination in that area before the end of that spring semester (i.e., in April). After an initial failure (in whole or part), if permission for a retake is granted, the Qualifying Examination must be retaken at the end of the next regular semester of full-time enrollment, but not later than two semesters after the failure (including the summer semester).

The Qualifying Examination consists of three parts:

(1) Area of specialization
(2) Music history
(3) Music theory

Dates:
Fall: The first full week in November
Spring: The first full week in April
Summer: Three successive Saturdays following the Fourth of July holiday

The exact dates of the examinations are determined by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies and are publicized as soon as the University’s Academic Calendar is available. Students must register for the exam at least two months in advance by calling 601.266.5543.

How are the exams graded?

Each part of the examination is graded by the appropriate faculty, and the results are reported to the Graduate Coordinator. Results of the individual parts of the Qualifying Examination will be reported to the Graduate Coordinator in one of three ways:

1. Student shows no deficiencies.

2. Student shows deficiencies, which are noted along with appropriate means to remove these deficiencies.

What happens if there are deficiencies on the Qualifying Exam?

1. Those who grade the examinations will make recommendations regarding the courses to be taken by the doctoral candidate.

2. Students with deficiencies may be required to take additional course work beyond the minimum required in the degree program.

3. Students with deficiencies may be required to take undergraduate courses for which no credit toward the doctorate will be gained.

4. Doctoral students should consult their major professor and the Coordinator of Graduate Studies regarding Qualifying Examination policies beyond those listed in the Bulletin. See School of Music Qualifying Examination Requirements and Policies available from the Academic Advising Office, Fine Arts Building.

When a student performs unacceptably on one part of the Qualifying Examination:

1.The student’s major professor and committee must meet with the appropriate faculty to determine whether the student may continue in the program.

2. If the student is to continue, the recommendations of the area faculty regarding course work must be discussed and determined by the student’s Advisory Committee and appropriate area faculty.

When the student performs unacceptably on two parts of the Qualifying Examination:

1. He/she may not register for any more hours of course work leading to a doctor’s degree.

2. In order to continue in the program the student must retake the two parts, which were unacceptable.

3. If either part is judged unacceptable a second time, the student cannot continue in the doctoral program in music.

Deviations from the above qualifying examination policy must be approved, in writing, after a meeting by both the Advisory Committee and the appropriate faculty graders. Students are notified of the results, in writing, before the end of the semester.

Comprehensive Exams

At the completion of all course work and examinations, the doctoral student is required to take a written Comprehensive Examination in the student’s area of specialization, Music Theory, and Music History. The Comprehensive Examination consists of three parts:

(1) Area of specialization
(2) Music history
(3) Music theory

Doctoral students should consult their major professor and the Coordinator of Graduate Studies regarding Comprehensive Examination policies beyond those listed in the Bulletin. See School of Music Comprehensive Examination Requirements and Policies available from the Academic Advising Office, Fine Arts Building.

When is the Comprehensive Exam administered?

This examination is offered each semester at the same time as the qualifying examination.
Dates:
Fall - the first full week in November
Spring - the first full week in April
Summer - three successive Saturdays following the Fourth of July holiday.

The exact dates of the examinations are determined by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies and are publicized as soon as the University’s Academic Calendar is available. Students must register for the exam two months (minimum) prior to taking the exam by calling 601.266.5543.

How is the test prepared and graded?

The examination in the student’s area of specialization will be prepared and graded by the student’s committee members from that area. The examinations in music theory and history will be prepared and graded by the appropriate area faculty. The candidate’s committee members representing music history and theory will deliver the recommendation of each of those areas to the full committee. The full committee will meet to discuss the examination and recommend a grade of “pass” or “fail” for each area (specialization, music theory, music history). This meeting will be held during (or before) the week of final examinations for the fall and spring semesters. In those instances where the Comprehensive Examination is taken during the summer semester, this
meeting will be held within the first three weeks of the fall semester.

Results:
The Academic Adviser must receive the results of the Comprehensive Examination in time to notify the University Registrar and the Graduate Office (i.e., no later than the last day for presenting signed dissertations to the Graduate Office).

What happens if the comprehensive exam is unsatisfactory?

When it is determined that the Comprehensive Examination is unsatisfactory, in whole or in part:
1) The student will be granted a second examination.
2) The test must be repeated within one year of the first Comprehensive Examination, but the student will be required to repeat only those sections of the examination judged unsatisfactory.
3) In those instances where a second examination is expected, the appropriate area faculty will inform the student, in writing, as to the specific or general areas which will be tested. The appropriate area faculty will grade the second test.

What happens with the second exam?

The Comprehensive Examination can be retaken once.
1) All parts failed must be repeated simultaneously.
2) If the second examination is judged unsatisfactory by the Advisory Committee, in whole or in part, the student cannot earn a doctoral degree in Music or Music Education at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dissertation

1. The dissertation topic must be approved by the student’s major professor and Advisory Committee and must be an original and significant contribution to knowledge in the chosen field. The Human Subjects Protection Review Committee must also approve the topic.

2. Once a topic has been approved, the student must enroll in MUS 797, MED 797, MUS 898, or MED 898 in each semester/term until the degree is completed.

3. A separate bulletin outlining University requirements concerning the preparation of dissertations is available in the Graduate Office, McCain Library room 205, (601) 266-4369.

4. Additionally, instructions specific to the development of an approved topic in Music or Music Education must be followed. See required pamphlet, “Prospectus Guide for the Doctor of Music Arts Degree,” available from the School of Music.

Interview-Audition Information

On behalf of the Music Education faculty at The University of Southern Mississippi, we welcome you to our graduate music education web site. We host interviews and auditions at any time during the academic year. We feel the ideal time to interview is between September and February of the academic year. These times are ideal for several reasons:
1) professors and students are present
2) classes/ensembles are meeting
3) campus offices are open
4) assistantships for the next academic year are offered starting during the month of March.

First, students interested in the Master of Music Education degree should contact , Division Chair for Music Education. Next, students interested in the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education degree should contact the specialist for their area of study.

• , Instrumental Music Education specialist
• , Choral Music Education specialist
• , Elementary Music specialist.

Students pursing a masters or doctoral degree in music education who are interested in conducting should contact the conductor for their primary area.

• , Wind Percussion Division Chair/Director of Bands
• , Choral Division Chair/Director of Choral Activities
• , Orchestral Division Chair/Symphony Orchestra Director

Admission Requirements

Masters of Music Education Degrees

Regular Admission

For regular admission to master’s degree programs in the School of Music at The University
of Southern Mississippi, a student must:
1) Have a “B” average or better on music courses in the undergraduate degree.
2) Have an overall grade point average of at least 2.75 (A = 4.0) on the last two years of
undergraduate study.
3) Submit test scores of the General Test (verbal, quantitative, analytical writing) of the Graduate
Record Examination.
4) Pass a candidacy audition (Master of Music only).
5) Submit strong letters of recommendation and/or undergo a successful personal interview.
Members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

Students applying for the “Hybrid” and “On-Line” degree should submit a writing sample to the following address: Music Education Division Chair, 118 College Drive #5081
Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406-5081. The writing sample may be one of the following: 1) term paper, 2) lecture or student

Conditional Admission

Students who are unable to meet regular admission standards may be considered for conditional
admission. (For details concerning conditional admission, see “Admission Requirements and
Procedures,” Graduate Bulletin, University of Southern Mississippi.)

Doctorate of Philosophy in Music Education Degree

In music education, we offer the Master of Music Education degree and the Doctorate of Philosophy in Music Education degree. For the MMEd degree, we offer four different formats, “Traditional”, “Licensure”, “Hybrid”, and “On-Line”. For the “Traditional” and “Licensure” masters degree, admission requirements are the same . Because the “Hybrid” and “On-Line” degree are writing intensive, each student must submit a writing sample. The writing sample may be one of the following: 1) term paper, 2) lecture or class presentation, 3) professional paper/presentation. To learn more about the admission requirements for this degree, please click Masters Handbook for more information. Admission requirements also differ between the master’s and doctoral degrees. For the Doctorate of Philosophy in Music Education degree, please click Doctoral Handbook for more information.

Application Procedures

First, students should click the Graduate Studies link to learn more about USM’s Graduate School and application process. You may complete an On-line Application OR Download an Application. Once your application has been received and processed by the Graduate School, it will be forwarded to the School of Music where it will be reviewed by the graduate committee.

Application Checklist

Original completed signed application form
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities
attended
Official reports of test scores
Three letters of recommendation and form
Application fee: All applicants must submit a $30
non-refundable fee.
Other materials, e.g., current resume, goals,
professional license or certificate, writing sample,
portfolio, auditions. Check with the department
for other required materials.

Assistantships

Assistantships in music education are available for masters and doctoral students in the School of Music. Students interested in a graduate assistantship should share this with the music education professor with whom they are communicating. Below are important deadlines to be considered for an assistantship.

Financial Aid Priority Date: March 15

Applications received by the priority date will be
reviewed first.
Other applications will be reviewed next on a
continuing basis.
Contact Southern Miss Financial Aid Office at
601.266.4774 or via e-mail at

Other Financial Assistance

Students seeking other financial assistance should contact the Southern Miss Financial Aid Office at 601.266.4774 OR click Financial Aid to visit their web site.

Tk 20

Tk 20 provides comprehensive systems for account-based assessment, accountability, and reporting. Marilyn Hamilton, Technology Coordinator University of the District of Columbia, stated the following regarding Tk20:

We purchased Tk20’s assessment and reporting solution after using various software programs to aggregate and analyze data for several years – a time consuming and tedious undertaking. We needed a comprehensive solution that would simplify the process of collection, aggregation and analysis of data from all of our systems to be included in our Institutional Report. After completing an exhaustive research, in which we looked at almost every system available, and with the recommendation of a faculty member from Howard University, we selected and licensed the Tk20 system. Tk20’s capabilities for data analysis, aggregation and reporting is outstanding. Tk20’s system is very flexible enabling us to reflect the unique flavor of our university…we don’t have to change the way we operate to adhere to the system. In fact, Tk20 customized our system to satisfy our unique needs – and the support that we’ve received from Tk20 has been exemplary.”

The CampusTools suite of solutions consists of three online systems. CampusTools HigherEd is an assessment, accountability and management system to help colleges of education meet NCATE and TEAC requirements for accreditation.

To read more, click Tk 20.

Be certain to visit USM’s Tk 20 link and sign-up today.

Basic Technology Literacy Exam (BTLE)

The Professional Education Council, the policy-making body for the professional education programs at The University of Southern Mississippi, has mandated that all students entering professional education programs must demonstrate basic technology literacy. This requirement provides a “more level playing field” among the candidates allowing the professional education faculty to build on technological skills that will assist the candidates with integrating these skills into the instructional framework and teaching.

The BTLE (Basic Technology Literacy Exam) assesses student technological knowledge and skill.

The website includes:

• Exam Dates & Locations
• Registration
• Technology Requirements
• Download Practice Exam
• On-line Tutorials
• Directions to Test Locations
• and more . . .

Visit the BTLE link to learn more.

GPA Requirements for Undergraduates

Students majoring in education must maintain a grade-point average of 2.65 to enter the Gold Card Program and enroll in these restricted classes. A grade-point average of 2.5 is required to enroll in the student teaching experience.

Piano Competency

Music education majors (including transfer students) are required to pass the School of Music’s Piano Competency Examination before enrolling in student teaching. Piano competencies are developed through enrollment in a four-semester sequence of piano classes or applied lessons, or a combination of both. For more information, visit Piano Competency to learn more!

Praxis I

MUSIC EDUCATION STUDENTS WITH AN ACT SCORE OF 21 OR HIGHER ARE EXEMPT FROM THE PRAXIS I EXAM. READ PRAXIS II INFORMATION AND PREPARE TO TAKE THAT EXAM.

What is the Praxis I Test?
Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Tests (PPST) are designed to measure basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics. The reading, writing, and mathematics assessments are available in two formats: paper-based or computer-based.

Who Takes the Test and Why?
Colleges and universities may use Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Tests to evaluate individuals for entry into teacher education programs. The assessments are generally taken early in your college career. Education students with an ACT Score of 21 or higher are exempt from the Praxis I exam.

Where Do People Take the Test?
Computer-based tests are offered by appointment through a national network of Prometric™ Testing Centers (many Prometric Testing Centers are located inside Sylvan Learning Centers), and select colleges and universities. Visit Computer-based Test Centers for testing locations in your area. Paper-based tests are selected by you when you register. Find paper-based testing locations in your area.

For more information, visit The Praxis Series and click “About the Test.”

Praxis II

ALL MUSIC EDUCATION STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE THE PRAXIS II EXAM.

What is the PRAXIS II Test?
PRAXIS II: Subject Assessments measure knowledge of specific subjects that K-12 educators will teach, as well as general and subject-specific teaching skills and knowledge. There are Subject Assessments, Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Tests and Teaching Foundations Tests.

Who Takes the Test and Why?
Individuals entering the teaching profession take these tests as part of the teacher licensing and certification process required by many states. A number of professional associations and organizations require these tests as one criterion for professional licensing decisions.

Where Do People Take the Test?
The PRAXIS Series tests are taken at testing locations located in various states and regions. Refer to the Paper-based Test Centers for a complete list of testing locations in your area.

For more information, visit The Praxis Series and click About the Test. Click
Praxis in Mississippi to learn of dates and locations where the test is administered.

Steven Moser, Ph.D. - Professor of Music, Associate Dean

E-mail:
Phone: 601.266.4315
Fax: 601.266.6541

Jennifer Shank, Ph.D. - Assistant Professor of Music

E-mail:
Phone: 601.266.5363
Fax: 601.266.6427

Mohamad Schuman, M.M.E - Assistant Professor of Music - Associate Director of Bands

E-mail:
Phone: 601.266.4990
Fax: 601.266.6185

Anita Davis, Ph.D. - Associate Professor of Music

E-mail:
Phone: 601.266.6575
Fax: 601.266.6427

John Flanery, M.M.E. - Assistant Professor of Music - Associate Director of Choral Activities

E-mail:
Phone: 601.266.4092
Fax: 601.266.6427

Christian J. Sweatt - Web Administrator

Please contact Christian with any questions or suggestions you have regarding the Department of Music Education web site, or your online account with this department.

E-mail:

About Music Education at Southern Miss

Music Education has been a driving force in the southeastern United States since the early years of The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band in the 1940’s. Dr. Raymond Mannoni assembled a nationally recognized School of Music that, throught education and performances, prepared decades of some of our region’s finest music educators. His deanery lead to the expansion of music that currently includes student and faculty major performing ensembles such as The Symphony Orchestra, The Southern Chorale, The Wind Ensemble and The Symphonic Winds, Southern Arts Faculty Brass Quintet, Category 5 Faculty Woodwind Quintet.

For more than sixty years, music education and performance have been at the heart of the univeristy’s first nationally accredited program. Those traditions and expectations continue to thrive in the hearts and minds of the students and faculty in the School of Music at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Auditions for Band, Choir, Orchestra, or Piano

The ideal time to schedule an audition with the School of Music at Southern Miss is between November and March of the current academic year. There are several steps to follow in order to learn about visits or scheduling an audition.

First, contact the person leading the area in which you are interested. They are happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have regarding their area, the School of Music and the University of Southern Mississippi. If you plan to major in music, you will be given contact information of the professor who teaches your instrument. This professor will schedule your audition and inform you of material you should prepare. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions regarding the audition, service awards, financial aid, residence life, and the university in general.

Music Areas:

Band
, Division Chair/Director of Bands

Band-Wind-Percussion
, Associate Director of Bands/Director, The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band
, Assistant Director of Bands
, Flute
, Oboe
, Bassoon
, Clarinet
, Saxophone
, French Horn
, Trumpet
, Trombone
, Euphonium-Tuba
, Percussion

Choir
, Division Chair/Director of Choral Activities

Choral/Vocal Faculty
, Associate Director of Choral Activities

Orchestra
, Division Chair/Director of Orchestral Studies

String Faculty
, Violin
, Viola
, Cello
, String Bass

Piano
, Division Chair/Piano Faculty

Piano Faculty

Jazz
, Division Chair/Jazz Studies

Application Procedures

Step 1: Apply to the University of Southern Mississippi

First, students are encouraged to visit the university web site and make application. You’re just steps away from making the powerful decision of your life...steps away from becoming a part of the Southern Miss family. Visit our Future Students site and begin the admission process and learn all about life on the Southern Miss campus, and more.

Step 2: Complete an Area Application & Schedule an Audition

If you are seeking a band application, click Prospective Student. If you want to schedule a band audition, scroll to the “Audition” link above and click “Read More” to e-mail the professor who teaches the instrument that you play.

If you are seeking an application and audition for…

orchestra, please e-mail .

choir, please e-mail .

jazz program, please e-mail .

piano, please e-mail .

Step 3: Complete a Financial Aid Application

Visit the Financial Aid web site for information regarding financial assistance programs available to students at Southern Miss.

Service Awards and Scholarships

Service Awards in Music are available to in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students at The University of Southern Mississippi. Students who reside outside the state may also qualify for an Out-of-State Tuition Scholarship. If a student receives this award from another department on campus, the award is not duplicated and may not be applied toward in-state fees. Awards are talent-based and students must be enrolled as a full-time student (12 or more course credits per semester) to receive the award.

Service Awards for Band Students:
Awards for students in band are designated as “Major” (students majoring in music/music education) and “Non-major” (students not majoring in music/music education). Awards made to any student have a musical and service expectation. The best time to schedule an audition for band is Monday-Friday during the months of January and February of your senior year. Service Awards are offered to students beginning in March.

Requirements for the award are:
1) must play in band
2) must register for the band class
3) must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.during the irst and second year and a 2.5 GPA during the third year and beyond.

Click Prospective Student to learn more about these awards and schedule a service award audition.

Service Awards for Choral Students:

Service Awards for Orchestra Students:
Awards for students in orchestra are desginated as “Major” (students majoring in music/music education) and “Non-major” (students not majoring in music/music education). Awards made to any student have a musical and service expectation. The best time to schedule an audition for orchestra is between January and March of your senior year. Service Awards are offered to students beginning in April.

Requirements for the award are:
1) must play in orchestra
2) must play in chamber music
3) must register for applied lessons
4) must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA.

Click Symphony to see the exciting list of scheduled performances for the 2007-2008 season. Click to schedule a visit and audition.

Service Awards for Jazz Students:
Awards are made to all students of jazz. Those playing wind instruments (Sax, Trumpet, Trombone) will audition for the studio professor teaching their instrument and Mr. Larry Panella, Director, Jazz Studies. Students playing rhythm section instruments will audition for Mr. Panella.

Please contact for more information and to schedule an audition.

Scholarship Awards for Piano Students:

Endowed Scholarships in the School of Music:

Scholarships endowed to Undergraduate Music Students:

Scholarships endowed to Graduate Music Students:

Course Requirements

Students enrolled in the Music Education curriculum are challenged with core and music curriculum that prepares a well-balanced individual. Courses in the core curriculum are typically assigned freshman and sophomore enrollment numbers. Simultaneously, students begin education and performance course requirements. The Music Education Faculty at The University of Southern Mississippi feel strongly that it is equally important to be an excellent performer as it is to be an excellent teacher. Consequently, the curriculum reflects this thought process.

You cann download a PDF file of the requirements for a degree in music education (Instrumental, Choral-Vocal, Choral-Guitar, Choral-Keyboard) HERE.

The core and education curriculum is the same for the four different degree emphases.

Steven Moser, Ph.D. - Professor of Music - Associate Dean, College of Arts & Letters

Steven Moser