Program Recognition
•Drake’s BME in Music Education prepares musicians to teach in K–12 settings, including general music, bands, choirs, and orchestras. The program combines professional education with applied music, theory, history, conducting, ensembles, and private instruction.
Performance & Productions
•Music Education majors continue developing as performers through one-on-one lessons and Drake ensembles that tour locally, regionally, and nationally. The department also offers more than 150 on-campus performances each year and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
Professional Development
•Graduates qualify for a State of Iowa Educator’s License with a K–12 music endorsement, with the School of Education able to recommend qualified applicants for certificates in other states.
Degree Flexibility
•Students choose Choral/General Music or Instrumental/General Music specialization. The curriculum includes classroom observation, methods coursework, field experiences, and a full semester of student teaching; Drake reports 100 hours of student-teaching experience under master teachers in two schools.