Pursuing an advanced degree in music is a significant milestone for any educator. Whether you are looking to increase your salary, move into administrative leadership, or simply refine your classroom pedagogy, the right support system is essential. At Kent State Online, our 100% online Master of Music in Music Education (MMME) is designed specifically for busy professionals who need a balance of academic rigor and scheduling flexibility.
To give you a behind-the-scenes look at the “Flash” experience, we sat down with Eric Black, Recruitment Coordinator for the College of the Arts. Eric plays a pivotal role in helping prospective students navigate the admissions process and transition into graduate-level study.
Supporting the Online Music Community
One of the biggest concerns for online graduate students is the fear of isolation. However, Kent State emphasizes a “community-first” approach that starts the moment you inquire about the program.
Can you share a bit about your role and how you support students in the online Master’s in Music Education program?
“I support our students in the MMME primarily in the preliminary steps through our webinars, but I also get the unique pleasure of being one of their first staff members they meet in person at our annual OMEA conferences and get the pleasure of hearing about their experiences and validating their place in our Kent community.”
What do you look forward to most in your role at Kent State University?
“I look forward to meeting our students no matter what point they are in their academic journey. Whether they are just discovering their love for Kent and what they want to pursue or are a long-time alum of our programs, I think my role is great because I get to experience all facets.”
What makes the online program unique for music educators?
“The flexibility and care are the most important aspects of this program that I think distinguishes us from others. We have great faculty, staff, and cohorts of students who truly care about each other.”
The Path to Application and Beyond
The transition from being a full-time teacher to a graduate student can feel daunting. From managing application deadlines to finding a work-life balance, Kent State provides dedicated resources to ensure our “Future Flashes” feel confident from day one.
What are the most important things students should know before applying?
“We are here for you whether you are ready to apply or are on the fence about applying. The moment you think you are a future flash, we are here to help you.”
What resources are available to help students balance school with work and personal life?
“Our advisor for the program is outstanding; she is truly one of the best in the business.”
What challenges do online students face, and how do you help them succeed?
“Online students face the lack of community that comes from traditional in-person programs, but we help them succeed by treating them like they are traditional students in our classrooms. With my role, I help bring them together at our major conference specifically.”
Innovation and Student Success
As the landscape of higher education evolves, Kent State remains at the forefront of digital learning. By integrating immersive technology and research-driven curriculum, we prepare our students to lead in 21st-century classrooms.
What trends do you see in online education, and how is the program adapting to those?
“I see online programs trying to be more immersive, but I feel like Kent State has been successful at turning that effort into reality.”
What do you enjoy most about working with students in this program?
“I enjoy seeing students where they are in their journey, whether they are a young teacher fresh out of undergrad or a seasoned veteran in their classroom, it is great to see them wanting to better themselves.”
Can you share a success story that stands out from a student in the program?
“Our students and alumni are getting published! You love to see it!”
Parting Words for Future Flashes
Choosing the right Master of Music Education program is a personal decision. Eric’s final advice highlights the core mission of Kent State: empowering educators to pursue their passions on their own terms.
What advice would you give to students considering this program?
“Take advantage of the flexibility of the program if you need it. There are semesters where it can feel overwhelming and we get that, so if you need to take a semester off to recover and come back stronger, we can make sure that you are good to go.”
What’s your favorite part about higher education?
“Seeing students who may not have been the most “interested in school” finding out that they love education because they get to study and progress in what they are passionate about.”
Enroll today in the Online Master of Music in Music Education Program at Kent State University
The Online Master of Music degree in Music Education program is designed to offer music teachers the opportunity to develop and refine their professional skills. The degree program allows for enhancement and specialization relative to music teaching and learning in contemporary school contexts.
Kent State University is synonymous with music education. Some of the leading voices in the field have earned a degree here. Our 100% online program can be completed in as few as 23 months. Our curriculum is created for the music teaching professional. Classes are seven weeks, and you can enroll in two classes per semester, including summer. This format allows you to focus on one area of study and then begin another music education course after a brief recess. We are dedicated to helping you design a program that provides exciting new perspectives in your teaching right from the beginning.
For more information on Kent State’s Online Master of Music in Music Education, visit https://onlinedegrees.kent.edu/degrees/master-of-music-in-music-education
