Monday, December 16, 2024
Longy’s Master of Music in Music Education program now offers two distinct pathways for students: the traditional Licensure Track and the newly introduced Non-Licensure Track.
While both tracks share a commitment to delivering high-quality, culturally responsive teacher education, they are tailored to different career goals. To ensure you choose the path that aligns with your aspirations, it’s important to understand how each track can support your professional development and future opportunities.
Here, Assistant Director of Teacher Education Jamie Gunther outlines the key differences between the two tracks, including coursework, culminating projects, professional development, and more. This insight can help you make an informed decision about which is the best fit for you before applying to Longy.
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What is the Non-Licensure Track, and how does it differ from the Licensure Track in Longy’s Master of Music in Music Education program?
We are proud of the curriculum and content we provide to students in the Master of Music in Music Education program. Our faculty are amazing—many are practicing preK-12 teachers, so the content in their classes is current.
The Licensure Track is designed for students who want to pursue Initial Licensure (K-12 Music) in Massachusetts to teach in preK-12 public schools. The Non-Licensure Track is intended for students drawn to the pedagogy and content offered in the program but not aiming to teach in a preK-12 public school setting.
Which career paths are available for Non-Licensure Track graduates?
The program is designed for students who hope to teach in community music or studio lesson settings or are looking to become teaching artists—career paths in music education that do not require a state teaching license.
Are Non-Licensure students required to complete practicum or fieldwork? If so, what does that entail?
Yes! Both Licensure and Non-Licensure students participate in practicum experiences during the fall term working with licensed preK-12 teachers in area public schools. These placements involve observing, interacting, and teaching in music classrooms.
Also, students in both tracks engage in field experiences with community music organizations throughout the year. Licensure Track students complete their degree with full-time student teaching during the spring term.
Which specific courses or experiences are unique to the Non-Licensure Track?
Non-Licensure students substitute the summer Initial Licensure course with a four-day Teaching Artistry Intensive in September. This intensive challenges student to think more deeply and broadly about music—its role in society, their career options, and how artists can be fully integrated into the communities they care about and belong to.
In the spring, instead of student teaching, Non-Licensure students engage in a capstone project that explores individual interests in music education. These projects may involve designing community programs, creating curricula, or investigating private teaching methodologies. Grounded in research and critical thinking, the final product demonstrates practical applications and insights, equipping students to make meaningful contributions beyond traditional classrooms.
What professional development or networking opportunities are available for Non-Licensure Track students?
Longy partners with public and private schools in the Greater Boston area, as well as community organizations like Boston City Singers, Boston Music Project, and many others. We work diligently to establish mutually beneficial relationships with a variety of partners.
Are there any mentorship or advising services specifically tailored to Non-Licensure students?
All students have access to career coaching throughout their time at Longy. You will meet with a coach who will help you explore your goals and artistic potential and connect your work at Longy to your future.
How do I learn more about the Master of Music in Music Education Program at Longy and apply?
To learn more, contact Longy’s Assistant Director of Teacher Education, Jamie Gunther, at [email protected]. All of our programs are free to apply to, and applications are accepted through January 5, 2025.