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Department of Music College of Arts and Sciences

Department of Music

In a relatively short time, the UAB Department of Music has distinguished itself as one of the finest centers for educating young musicians in the southeast. Faculty and students perform in the acclaimed Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center (with its four performing venues) and around the globe. We recently became the first program in the state of Alabama to be designated an All-Steinway School, making the department one of only 73 schools worldwide so named by piano maker Steinway & Sons. The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Musicopens in a new window.

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For Admission

This is a spot graphic on the alternative master's program page.For unconditional admission to the Alternative Class A certification program in Choral or Instrumental Music Education, candidates must have:
  • a cumulative 2.5 GPA (unrounded) on a degree-issuing transcript
  • a passing score on the Praxis II in Music
  • a passion score on all 3 sections of the AECTP Basic Skills
  • background clearance

Candidates must also meet all other criteria for admission to the Graduate School and to the master's degree program at the Department of Music.

Prospective students should NOT begin any coursework without first seeking a transcript evaluation and advisement from the Office of Student Services. Students who ignore this advice assume responsibility for their own mistakes. 

No more than five required courses may be taken prior to unconditional admission to the Alternative Master's Program. 

For Certification

Once a candidate has completed all requirements and has met all admission, exit and certification requirements, the candidate will be eligible for Alternative Class A certification in Choral or Instrumental Music Education. To be eligible for this certification, the candidate must:
  • submit a completed application for certification during the last term of enrollment in the Alternative Class A Music Education Program (and no later than 60 calendar months following completion of the program
  • complete the alternative Class A program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all required courses
  • achieve a passing score on a comprehensive assessment documenting mastery of the curriculum
  • meet all requirements for the Alabama Educators Certification Testing Program (AECTP)