Prof. Ann L. McFarland,(Interim) Chair, 610-436-3030

I am often asked why a degree in Musical Education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania is so valued. The quality of our program is evident in our reputation and the demand for our graduates — 99% of our undergraduates are placed in their first choice of employment. The answer lies in the synergy of many elements acting in concert:
• teaching to National Standards
• we teach how to connect with students with innovative and current teaching methods taught by specialist in that method: Orff, Kodaly, Dalcroze, technology
• the availability of the music lab and training in the use of technology
• the structure and flow of subject matter through the program
• the excellence of the programs in Applied Music, Music Theory and Composition and Music History and Literature
• the caliber of faculty as teachers and artists
• the prequalifing for admission and monitoring of students throughout professional sequencing for suitability to program and career as a teacher and musician
• the fellowship of students and faculty in the School of Music
• the strength of our student teaching program
• attention to interview and portfolio — including video of the student engaged in teaching, lesson plans…

Consequently our students are prepared for student teaching, prepared for an interview, and prepared for the job.

I encourage students to work hard: practice, attend recitals, study and keep a firm grip on their Student Handbook (it’s your guide!), meet with their faculty advisor and to savor the prospect of being paid to teach something you love — music.

Professor Jane Pippart-Brown
Chair of the Music Education Department

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