Bachelor of Music Education (BME)
Students who aspire to teach music will find Otterbein University an ideal place to begin their journey. The Bachelor of Music Education (B.M.E.) program offers an engaging, supportive environment guided by experienced faculty who prepare future teachers for the demands of 21st-century classrooms.
A Comprehensive Four-Year Program
This four-year degree provides the professional skills and musical expertise needed to become a well-rounded educator. The program leads to Music Multi-Age licensure, qualifying graduates to teach instrumental and vocal music in both public and private schools, from pre-kindergarten through grade 12.
Otterbein’s teacher education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The B.M.E. program also holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). These accreditations ensure academic excellence and make it easier for graduates to obtain licensure in additional states.
A Liberal Arts Foundation
The B.M.E. program benefits from Otterbein’s liberal arts framework, a core part of the university’s identity. Alongside the nationally recognized Integrative Studies curriculum, students complete coursework that strengthens musicianship skills and builds essential teaching competencies. This balanced approach helps students grow as both artists and educators.
Real Classroom Experience from Day One
From their first year, students participate in a range of observation and hands-on teaching experiences within public schools. These experiences are jointly coordinated by the Departments of Music and Education, ensuring a strong connection between theory and practice.
Each year includes in-school placements, complemented by a full lineup of methods courses—including a unique guitar and ukulele methods course—that give students practical, classroom-ready tools.
Proven Success and Career Opportunities
Otterbein’s placement record for B.M.E. graduates is exceptional. Alumni hold leadership positions in prominent music programs across Ohio and beyond. Many have built successful careers as public and private school educators, studio teachers, and university faculty, while others have continued pursuing performance careers.
A Supportive Community and Prime Location
Located near a vibrant metropolitan area, Otterbein offers students the best of both worlds—an intimate campus experience with access to diverse in-school learning opportunities. The surrounding region features outstanding music programs and dedicated educators who mentor Otterbein students through their fieldwork.
Within the Otterbein Music Department, students can also join a wide variety of ensemble performances, fostering collaboration, creativity, and connection. A close-knit community of learners further supports personal and professional growth throughout the program.
Ohio Collegiate Music Educators Association
Otterbein’s chapter of the Ohio Collegiate Music Educators Association (OCMEA) is very active. Music Education majors participate in this organization in each year of study. This organization is the collegiate “arm” of the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) and the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), and is open to all music majors, but is geared toward enhancing the music education curriculum.
OCMEA supplements the regular curriculum by providing regular guest speakers addressing a variety of topics ranging from developing diversity in the music curriculum to copyright concerns, from mock interviews to creating an effective resume. Experienced teachers frequently come to speak and inspire our students.
A highlight of the year is attending the annual OMEA Professional Development Conference, where students attend concerts and clinics, and network with teachers from across the state. Our students also organize social events and fundraisers. For more information, please contact Jim Bates.
Otterbein Future Music Teachers Association
Otterbein has a chapter of MTNA (Music Teachers National Association) called OFMTA (Otterbein Future Music Teachers Association). This national organization was formed to give independent music teachers a resource for networking and to provide professional opportunities and further training. Students who are currently teaching private lessons on any instrument or voice or would like to get started are invited to join the group. For more information, please contact Nick Ross.
| Student Learning Outcomes | University Learning Goals (KMERI*) |
| 1. All students in the music program should gain a broad knowledge and appreciation of important music within historical, cultural, and global contexts | Knowledgeable, Multi-literate, Inquisitive, Responsible |
| 2. All music students will achieve proficiency in aural, reading, and keyboard skills. Technical: The Candidate will demonstrate proficiency in aural skills. | Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive |
| 3. All music students will achieve proficiency in aural, reading, and keyboard skills.” Technical: The Candidate will develop and demonstrate keyboard proficiency. | Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive |
| 4. The Candidate will demonstrate knowledge of music theory, as well as proficiency in musical analysis and creation. | Knowledgeable, Engaged, Inquisitive |
| 5. The Candidate will demonstrate mastery of his/her instrument or voice and articulate the processes used to develop oneself as a performing artist. | Knowledgeable, Engaged |
| 6. The candidate can create age-appropriate learning experiences that are meaningful to a wide range of ability levels. | Knowledgeable, Multi-literate |
| 7. The candidate has knowledge and expertise with digital media as related to the music profession. | Knowledgeable, Responsible |
*NOTE: KMERI refers to Otterbein's learning goals. It stands for Knowledgeable, Multi-literate, Engaged, Responsible, and Inquisitive. To learn more about KMERI, visit our University Learning Goals page.
Apply
Now!