Master Degree: Music Degrees and Programs

A lot of people love music, but not many have a master's degree in music. In fact, the master's degree in music was the first graduate degree offered for the study of music. And now you can earn this degree with online education. By pursuing a master's degree in music, you are stating your intention to become a professional performer, conductor, and/or composer. You may also qualify yourself for jobs teaching music at various grade levels, from elementary school to college. A master's degree in music program will include courses in musicology, music theory, and performance psychology. Usually, students specialize in one area and study that very deeply. A vocalist, for example, takes different classes than a composer. Online education offers students the opportunity to make a living while pursuing their music dream. Often, music students find it necessary to do something else to pay the bills. The average annual salary for composers was $40,150 in 2007. Average pay for performance theater artists was just under $30 per hour.