Degree Programs: Certificates

The School of Music at George Mason University is pleased to currently offer the following degree programs listed below. Please feel free to browse the University Catalog for more information about these programs and their requirements.

Professional Certificate in Piano Pedagogy (Undergraduate)

The Professional Certificate in Piano Pedagogy is open to students who wish to obtain a certificate in Piano Pedagogy through the non-degree Extended Studies program. This certificate provides specialized training designed to meet the needs of those seeking to expand their piano teaching skills. This is a nondegree program of Continuing Education sponsored by the music school. The professional development certificate can be earned through the completion of 16 hours of pedagogy-related course work.

The curriculum includes concentrated course work in keyboard pedagogy including business aspects of teaching, techniques of teaching repertoire and technical skills at different levels of student development, and a comprehensive study of teaching strategies appropriate for private and group settings. Students will have the opportunity to research current topics in the field of pedagogy. Course work includes observation of teaching, a teaching internship, and a final pedagogy project.

Certification requires a certain level of performance proficiency, and basic knowledge of music theory, sight-singing and ear training, and keyboard skills. Entry to the certificate program will include testing in theory, sight-singing and ear-training, and keyboard skills; and a performance audition to determine proficiency or placement in appropriate levels of private music instruction or course work to achieve required proficiency for certification.

Admission to the Professional Certificate in Piano Pedagogy program is based upon audition and acceptance by the University.

Coordinator: Dr. Linda Apple Monson

To learn more about the audition process, please click here. You may also view the Professional Certificate in Piano Pedagogy Requirements in the 2008-2009 George Mason University Catalog.

Artist Certificate (Graduate)

The certificate is a specialized, graduate-level program for advanced musicians who desire to further develop and refine their performance art. The certificate program is a two-year course of study requiring at least two consecutive semesters of residence, and is available in piano, instrumental, and vocal performance concentrations. A total of 32 credits is required. Advisor's approval is required for each semester's enrollment.

Admission Requirements include the following:

• An artist certificate application and current resume
• A bachelor's degree in music or equivalent (as evaluated by the music school Admissions Committee)
• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• One-page written statement of student's goals and interest in the program
• Two letters of recommendation
• A CD (preferred), audiocassette, or videotape of a live performance of solo works from the standard repertory
• Audition

To learn more about the audition process, please click here. You may also view the Artist Certificate Requirements in the 2008-2009 George Mason University Catalog.