To gain a Music endorsement, you must demonstrate your subject–matter knowledge in multiple ways. Music pathway B is designed for candidates who majored in music at an institution other than the University of Puget Sound.
Prior to your admission to the MAT program, you must complete necessary music coursework and state-required content exams. While enrolled in the MAT program you will complete coursework and have school-based placements to prepare you to teach Music.
1. CONTENT PREPARATION
One part of preparing to teach Music is a strong preparation in the subject. The best content preparation is a major in Music. To have your content preparation evaluated; 1) arrange for a transcript evaluation, and 2) complete a performance audition with the School of Music.
Suggested courses include:
- Music Theory through twentieth-century compositional techniques (normally 4 semesters or 6 quarters).
- Music History from ancient times through the present (normally 2-4 semesters or 3-6 quarters).
- Music Education Methods (Elementary, Secondary).
- Studio Lessons on a single instrument every academic term.
- Ensemble experience every academic term, which must include large ensemble(s).
- Beginning and advanced instrumental and choral conducting (2-3 semesters or 3-4 quarters).
- Techniques classes, which may be satisfied through demonstration of proficiency (Voice, Strings [one term for vocal/general, two terms for instrumental/general], Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion.
- Choral/general emphasis: Diction (one semester) and Vocal Pedagogy.
- Accompanying techniques on piano and guitar.
- Keyboard proficiency.
2. TESTING
You must pass a basic skills test, the National Evaluation Series (NES) Test and at least one of the Washington Educator Skills Test–Endorsement (WEST–E) Tests.
Please see our Testing Overview page for details on testing deadlines.
| BASIC SKILLS TESTING | CONTENT AREA TESTING | |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC | TEST: WEST–B or Alternative* Math, Reading, & Writing |
TEST: NES 504 Music candidates must also take at least one (1) of the following tests. TEST: WEST–E 056 TEST: WEST–E 057 |
*Out-of-state applicants may substitute either the PRAXIS I or CBEST for the WEST-B. Additionally, scores from the SAT or ACT taken after 2005 may be used to meet the basic skills requirement.
3. AUDITION
An entrance audition is required for applicants on Pathway B. Please contact our Music Admission Coordinator Heidi Huckins at music.admission@pugetsound.edu to make an appointment to audition.
- We strongly recommend live auditions, but will accept video-recorded auditions from students who live 3 or more hours from campus.
- On-campus auditions will be 10-20 minutes in length and involve performance of the required repertoire and scales, as well as a short interview with faculty.
- A letter of recommendation from a studio teacher or conductor is required, to be brought on the day of audition.
- We encourage all applicants to bring a copy of their performance resume on the day of audition (required for keyboard players).
We believe that diversity and representation matter. At Puget Sound, students are encouraged to explore a diversity of musical styles, traditions, and works by gender- and racially-marginalized composers, as part of their preparation to become future musical leaders. In the meantime, applicants are asked to prepare selections for an audition that best represent their current playing and musical background.
The School of Music offers music Graduate Assistantships for MAT candidates. This includes assistantship to the School of Music ensembles, including wind, orchestral, choral groups, as well as general music teaching opportunities. Assistantships are offered to select MAT candidates after their acceptance into the program.
4. SCHOOL–BASED PLACEMENTS & COURSEWORK
During the academic year, you will complete elementary and secondary teaching methods coursework and Music-related school-based experiences.
For additional information, contact Karen Stump at the School of Education.