Purpose

The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education program emphasizes advanced research and practical application of music education studies to the field of music teaching and learning. The program is designed to equip music education professionals with skills that will prepare them to assume leadership roles within various organizations in the context of music education. The graduates of this program will be prepared to lead in higher education as well as at the district level of K‐12 music education.

Program Learning Outcomes

The student will be able to:

• Construct a culturally contextualized music teaching methodology that is informed by Christian ethics.
• Formulate a philosophy of music education informed by the contexts of sociology, psychology, aesthetics, and a Biblical worldview.
• Design and conduct original research that contributes to the discipline of music education.
• Synthesize knowledge of the literature of the discipline with the professional practices of music educators through original research for the teaching environment.

Program Specific Admission Requirements

In addition to the general admission procedures, applicants to the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education must meet the following requirements:

1. An earned master’s degree in music or its equivalent from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (e.g., SACS, TRACS, ABHE, etc.). Master's degrees qualifying for entrance into the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education degree may include:
   1. Master's degree in Music
   2. Master's degree in Music Education
   3. Master's degree in Music and Worship
   4. Or a related discipline from an accredited institution
2. A graduate GPA of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale).
3. TOEFL Scores for students who speak English as a second language (score of 600 paper –based test; 250 computer-based test, 80 internet-based test).

Transfer Credit

Transfer students will be required to submit transcripts for evaluation as per the normal process established by the University. Students may transfer a maximum of 30 hours of coursework from an accredited institution.  In order to be eligible for transfer credit, course work must have a minimum grade of B-, and must have been completed within the past seven (7) years. Credits from a degree on the same academic level previously earned through Liberty University are considered transfer credits.

The following courses are not eligible for transfer credit: MUSC 805 (3 credits), MUSC 915 (3 credits), MUSC 917 (3 credits), MUSC 987 (5 credits), MUSC 988 (5 credits), MUSC 989 (5 credits), MUSC 990 (0 credits), MUSC 982 (0 credits), and MUSC 983 (0 credits).

Delivery Format: Online Only

• University professor of music education
• District supervisor of music in a K‐12 environment

A student who is pursuing either of the above routes would need K‐12 teaching experience. Many students who will pursue this degree are current K‐12 music educators.