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Where the most Inspired Musicians
become the most Inspiring Music Teachers

VanderCook College of Music

Why VanderCook?

Our Mission

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

Our Faculty

VanderCook’s faculty is made up of highly experienced and knowledgeable music educators who bring expertise to our students in a wide variety of disciplines. 100% of classes are taught by our faculty!

Recognitions & Accreditations

VanderCook College of Music is known worldwide as a premier music education college, offering students a diverse curriculum of degree and certification coursework designed to prepare them for a wide variety of careers in the music education field.  VanderCook is nationally rated in the Top 5 of Music School Central’s “Best Hidden Gem Music Education Schools,” is designated “Exemplary” by the Illinois State Board of Education Educator Preparation Profile,  and is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and The National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

History

Founded in 1909 in the city of Chicago, IL, VanderCook has a storied past and is the nation’s only institution solely devoted to preparing music teachers in a conservatory-like atmosphere. Located near some of Chicago’s most historic and significant neighborhoods, the school’s exciting and dynamic campus is on the grounds of the highly ranked Illinois Institute of Technology, in two buildings designed by famous architect Mies van der Rohe.

Campus Life

With our campus located just minutes from downtown Chicago, our students enjoy all that the Windy City has to offer including its world-renowned music culture, great restaurants, iconic architecture, shopping, countless entertainment options, and recreation activities on the shores of Lake Michigan. Additional information about campus life can be found below:

The Programs We Offer

VanderCook offers a wide array of degree and certification programs.

Undergraduate Program

Our Bachelor programs offer a comprehensive education to prepare students to be music teachers, performers, or obtain a degree on a pre-certification basis.

  • Bachelor of Music Education (BMEd)
  • Bachelor of Music in Performance and Pedagogy (BMped)
  • Bachelor of Music Pre-Certification (BMpc)
  • Performer’s Certificate

Graduate Program

Students who want to continue their studies after obtaining a bachelor’s degree can enroll in one of VanderCook’s graduate level programs.

  • Master of Music Education (MMEd)
  • Master of Music Education and Certification (MCert)
  • Teacher Certification Entitlement Program (TCEP)

MECA Continuing Education Program

VanderCook’s Music Education Center of America (MECA) provides graduate level courses for teachers who want to apply further knowledge in their classrooms. In addition, 12 credit hours of MECA courses can be applied to our Master of Music Education degree.

Community Outreach & Events

VanderCook regularly sponsors a wide variety of community outreach programs and events that are designed to expose younger students to the world of music and/or to help them further develop their skills.

"I couldn’t be happier to be part of such a great family."

“I heard about VanderCook from my band director. I transferred to VanderCook my second semester of freshman year because the school I was attending did not have a strong music education program. Ever since, I couldn’t be happier to be part of such a great family who cares about me and wants me to be the best teacher I can be.”

– Alivia Brooks, Flute, BMEd

“I chose VanderCook because it will make me the most well-rounded teacher."

“I had a lot of opportunities when it came to college. I chose VanderCook because it will make me the most well-rounded teacher. You leave certified to teach K-12 general music, choir, band and orchestra. You also learn all the instruments so you can help your future students. This puts you in high demand. VanderCook is a family, and it was the best decision I’ve made.”

– Lucas Bauer, Voice, BMEd

Logo 2022 Dark 1
3140 South Federal Street
Chicago, IL 60616-3731
(312) 225-6288

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

© 2024 VanderCook College of Music. All Rights Reserved.
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