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Music Education (Pre-Teacher Certification) Major

Study Music Education at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll build your résumé through firsthand experience in local classrooms and gain valuable skills necessary for success as a K-12 music educator. Experienced faculty-mentors will help you deepen knowledge in choral, instrumental, and general music, along with relevant teaching methodologies. You’ll earn your degree from a program endorsed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, well-prepared to pursue certification in music education.

Program at a Glance

The School of the Arts nurtures students’ faith and talents to develop and excel as world-class music professionals.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

Auditions Available

  • January, February, March 2025
  • Music Merit Scholarships still available

Learn How to Apply

Program Information

  • Program Units: 89

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

Band

Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Broaden instrumental and choral musical knowledge.
  • Explore the integration of faith and music.
  • Interact one on one with faculty mentors invested in your story.
  • Volunteer with local schools and art organizations such as the Azusa Conservatory of Music.
  • Prepare to pursue certification in K-12 music education.

By the Numbers

#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
1 of 2 APU is one of only two universities in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities to be classified as an R2 Research University.

Get Started

Denney smiling

Denney Premkumar: Building Community through Music

As a music education major, Denney Premkumar ’23 discovered the value of a Christ-centered community and grew closer to God through music.

Program Details

The music education (pre-teacher certification) major provides future vocal, instrumental, and general music teachers the necessary skills, knowledge, and appropriate methodologies for success at all levels of music education within California.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

How to Apply

  1. Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
  2. Select your music major (if applicable)
  3. If eligible, complete your FAFSA (does not apply to international students)

Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, so students are encouraged to audition as soon as possible for best consideration.

Auditions

All music students are encouraged to audition. Learn more about auditions and scholarships.

Plan a Visit

Applicants are encouraged to visit a class or meet with one of our professors. Just fill out a Visitation Form to visit us and explore our programs further. We look forward to meeting you!

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Career Outlooks and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

John Burdett

John Burdett

Chair and Associate Professor Department of Music; Director of Music Education, Wind Ensemble Conductor

Helena singing on stage

Helena Mayer ’20: Reaching the Lost through Music

At just 25 years old, Helena Mayer ’20 has built a strong career as a musician. Her songs have been streamed more than 10 million times on Spotify and she performs four times a week for more than 9,000 followers on Twitch.​

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

Related Programs

Music Education (Pre-Teacher Certification) Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Choral, Instrumental

Commercial Music Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Audio Recording Track, Composing/Arranging Track, Instrumental Performance Track, Music Business Track, Vocal Performance Track