MCert
Master of Music Education and Certification
The transformation from music professional to professional music educator starts here!
The Master of Music Education and Certification (MCert) program is designed for students who have earned an undergraduate degree in an area such as music theory, music history, music performance, or music therapy and wish to earn an MMEd while securing licensure to teach in the public schools.
How Do I Apply?
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- A minimum cumulative college GPA of 3.0. Applicants may be required to take the GRE exam in addition to the regular application requirements if GPA is below the minimum threshold.
Application Materials
- A completed application submitted online.
- An essay relating your philosophy of music education.
- A current résumé
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended, including any previously earned graduate credit
Acceptance is further contingent on an audition.
How is the MCert program structured?
- Comprehensive and practical. You will complete a set of core requirements specializing in band, choral, string, or general music education.
- Programming to fit individual needs. You customize your course of study and choose your master’s project subject.
- A broad menu of electives:
- Curriculum & Administration
- Music History, Musicology, Ethnomusicology
- Technology in Teaching
- Jazz Arranging
- Musical Theatre
- Current Trends in Music Education
- Flexible duration. You can complete the program in as few as two years or a maximum of seven years (most students average three years).
- Commencement at Chicago Symphony Center.
Student Resources
Performance Opportunities
You will perform over 20 times a year!
As a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, String Orchestra, Collegiate Chorale, Percussion Ensemble and Jazz Band, you will perform over 20 times a year on campus and throughout the city of Chicago.
The Midwest Clinic
VanderCook co-founded The Midwest Clinic: an international band and orchestra conference held in Chicago with more than 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. Throughout the history of The Midwest Clinic, VanderCook is the only college Symphonic Band invited to perform every year.
Chicago at Your Fingertips
Attending VanderCook gives you instant access to many of the city’s most famous and important cultural landmarks, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier and the Lyric Opera – all just minutes away from campus by bus, train or bike. All undergraduates receive a Ventra card for unlimited access to CTA trains and buses during the fall and spring semesters.