Kent State Online

For many working educators and professionals, advancing your career doesn’t mean putting your life on hold. Kent State’s online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations is designed specifically for learners who are balancing full-time jobs, family commitments, and community responsibilities — without sacrificing the quality of their graduate education.

When we think about education, schools and universities usually come to mind. But education also happens in museums, cultural centers, libraries, historical sites, community organizations, and the arts. These non-formal educational spaces play a powerful role in shaping how people understand history, culture, identity, and community — often reaching audiences far beyond traditional educational settings.

For decades, school music programs have centered on classical repertoire — and while those traditions remain vital, there’s a growing recognition of the powerful role that rock, jazz, and popular music can play in student learning. Including these genres in K–12 music curricula not only reflects the musical experiences of many students but also strengthens engagement, cultural relevance, and motivation across diverse communities.

For many people, the idea of going back to school isn’t new — it’s something that’s been sitting quietly in the background. A goal postponed. A possibility considered. A “someday” plan.