Music Education Specialist


Why Pursue a Music Education Specialist Degree?
You should never stop learning – especially when it’s your job to teach others. By continuing your training, you maximize your understanding of music, improve yourself as an educator, and push your career to new boundaries. And there’s no better way to accomplish those goals than by obtaining an Education Specialist Degree (EdS) in music education at Piedmont University.
Piedmont’s EdS program is an advanced certification program – designed specifically for candidates who already have a Master of Arts degree. This program will distinguish you, allowing you to reach new pinnacles in theory and practice. We’ll also show you how to become a leader in the professional discourse of improving education – setting you up for roles as a director of music education, department head, or curriculum coordinator. The Education Specialist degree (EdS) is offered on the campuses in Demorest and Athens, as well as through our online graduate programs. So, if you’re thinking of taking another step forward, know that Piedmont is ready when you are.

How a Music Education Degree Helps You
- Continue your education and obtain a degree even higher than a Master of Arts.
- Further increase your understanding of both music and how to teach it.
- Maximize your career and leadership opportunities in education.
- Earn a certification on a schedule and pace that suits your busy professional life.
Career Opportunities
A Music Education Specialist degree from Piedmont opens doors and a wide range of professional pursuits. Graduates of this program are prepared to take on leadership roles in their school or district.
More About a Music Education Specialist Degree
Learn more about a Music Education Specialist degree and the variety of options available to you as a Piedmont student.
Piedmont’s Education Specialist degree in music education offers a 30-hour / 10 course program that includes coursework in teaching principles (among other courses). It also includes advanced curriculum training to boost your leadership abilities. This advanced program will help you attain distinguished levels of both theory and practice and to take on roles such as director of music, department head, or curriculum coordinator. Applicants must currently hold certification in Music Education (PK-12) in order to qualify for a certificate upgrade upon completion.
Our EDS program is a 100% online degree. That makes it ideal for individuals with a master’s degree from an accredited college or university that want to enhance their teaching skills. It is also a great way to prepare yourself for instructional leadership roles in your school or school districts.
Eligibility for application requires a master’s degree with a 3.5 cumulative GPA from an accredited college or university and two or more years of verified successful teaching experience at a public or a private school accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) or the Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) at the Accredited With Quality (AWQ) or Accredited (ACC) level.
Applicants must also submit:
- Graduate Admissions Application
- Official, final transcripts from the college or university awarding your master’s degree. (Piedmont University transcripts are on file.)
- Two (2) professional references. One reference is required from a supervising administrator, and the other can be a choice of the following: a former professor, or instructor (college instructor, staff development instructor or mentor), or professional colleague
- Copy of valid, current professional certificate at the appropriate level for Georgia educators seeking certificate upgrade. Alternatively, candidates from independent schools should submit a letter from the principal or head of school verifying full-time employment as a teacher or educational administrator. (Note: If your certificate is not a Georgia certificate and you desire to be certified in Georgia, you must complete all requirements through Professional Standards Commission [PSC].)
- Letter of Intent
- Professional Activities Resume
- Verification of Professional Experience (two years)* at the time of application
- Personal Affirmation Form
Related Programs
Intrigued by a Music Education Specialist degree? You might also be interested in one of these programs:



Where do I start?
To begin your journey toward earning an Music Education Specialist degree at Piedmont University, you can start by applying today! Or, schedule a campus visit and meet with admissions and financial aid advisors, as well as faculty members in Education.