University of Southern California

Music Education

Master of Arts in Teaching Music (MAT)

Outstanding students who hold a bachelor of music degree in performance may apply for this intensive 14-month program, offered jointly by the Thornton School and the Rossier School of Education, to earn the Master of Arts in Teaching Music and the California Single Subject Preliminary Teaching Credential in Music. The program accommodates students of all musical backgrounds, including jazz, studio guitar, voice, band and orchestral instruments. Admitted students begin classes in early summer and must enroll as full-time students through the next spring, followed by a six-week student teaching experience. For applications and further information, see the USC Rossier School of Education Web site or call (213) 740-3471.

Master of Music

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Required items:

  • USC Graduate Application
  • Thornton Supplementary Application
  • Video Recording (see below)
  • Statement of Objectives
  • Resume
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Repertoire List
  • Writing Sample
  • Transcripts
  • GRE score report (general test only) – the applicant must submit a copy of his/her personal score report to the Thornton Admission office, as well as arrange for ETS to send an official score report directly to the USC Admission office
  • TOEFL score report - required from all applicants for whom English is a second language, regardless of educational background or immigration status

Video Recording
A video recording of the applicant teaching should be submitted for the purpose of evaluating the applicant's teaching style and level of experience. The recording should be approximately 15 minutes in length.

Writing Sample
This sample should consist of essays or research abstracts on music education topics.

Resume
The resume should list musical, professional and academic experience, including 2 or more years of teaching experience (whether private, public or studio teaching).