Nazareth University launches online music education master's degree

Rochester, NY (02/16/2026) — Nazareth University is making a master's degree in music education more accessible to New York state music teachers by offering a fully online program. The new option is for music education graduate students seeking professional certification.

"What really makes the program unique is the flexibility it offers working music teachers along with the breadth of elective experiences that closely align with a graduate student's goals," said Keith Koster, director of Nazareth's music education graduate program, which is also available on campus, in person. "While the program can be completed fully online, the Nazareth graduate music education faculty work closely with each student, supporting a robust, engaged experience, year-round."

The program's rolling admissions mean a student can apply at any time during the fall, spring, or summer semesters. All courses are available across all semesters. The online music education degree consists of five required courses and five elective courses - in curriculum & instruction, music education, music history or theory, or courses in music therapy. Students can transfer up to six credits from another institution.

Nazareth's School of Music also offers the American Orff-Schulwerk Association-endorsed Orff Schulwerk Institute, attracting students from across the U.S. and abroad. Graduate students can complete levels training and eventual Orff certification during the summer each year.

Nazareth is in the process of developing an online master's degree in music education for out-of-state students.

Details: https://www2.naz.edu/academics/grad/music-education-degree-program