What is Music Education?

When you major in music education, you'll blend your passion for music with classroom instruction for future musicians. Train with respected faculty and music education specialists and join a close-knit community that performs, teaches, and leads. Whether your dream is conducting a school band, teaching choir, or shaping the next generation of musicians, you’ll graduate prepared to make a lasting impact with a music education job and career. LSU offers concentrations in Instrumental and Vocal.

Program Website
Degree Details
Admissions Info
Program Highlights
Career Launchpad Graduates teach across the nation and land top faculty roles at universities — proof that our program prepares you to lead and inspire, opening doors and setting stages through music.
Real Classroom Experience From day one, you'll work hands-on with K–12 students in Baton Rouge, building practical skills, teaching confidence and community impact early and quickly.
Dual Certification & Licensure Our programs lead to Level 1 teaching licensure in Louisiana, with support for certification in other states and international teaching pathways.
Center Stage Experience As a student in the cultural region responsible for jazz, zydeco, blues, and Cajun music, immerse yourself in Louisiana’s iconic music scenes and gain performance experience in chamber groups, orchestras, jazz ensembles, and more.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Elementary Music Teacher
Middle/High School Band Director
Orchestra Director
Choir Director
General Music Teacher (K-12)
Music Theory or Appreciation Instructor
University Applied Instructor
Curriculum Development Specialist
Community Music Program Coordinator

Workplace Settings

Higher Education
K-12 Schools (Public, Private, or Charter)
Opera & Musical Theatres
Nonprofits
Community Centers
Libraries
Art Councils
Community Music Programs
Church Music Directors
Private Studio

Building Skills
Music Teaching Master strategies for diverse learners — from lesson planning to instructional delivery.
Musical Acuity Refine your performance, conducting, and creativity through applied lessons and ensembles.
Ensemble Leadership & Conducting Gain the skills to build musical communities, including conducting, scoring, and rehearsing.
Instructional Technology Integration Integrate modern digital tools to enhance instruction, creativity, and student engagement.
$55,000
Average alumni Music Education salary 5 years after graduation
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
LSU offers competitively ranked post-graduate programs designed to help you innovate and lead in your field. Engage in advanced coursework, contribute to impactful research, and learn from expert faculty who are solving real-world challenges across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into a new industry, or accelerate your career, LSU’s graduate programs open the door to a world of opportunity.
Master of Music (M.M.)Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)Doctor of Philosophy in Music (PhD)

Related Majors

Music
Music Therapy
Apply Today!