ATHENS, Ohio -- The Ohio University Music Distance Learning program is receiving national recognition as a premier graduate program among universities that offer similar programs in music education.
The August 2001 issue of the Music Educators National Conference's "Teaching Music" praised Ohio University for offering "the most substantive and extensive program" in music distance learning.
"The Distance Learning graduate program, which has been in existence for only one year, has already made a significant impact on meeting the needs of music teachers throughout the region," said School of Music Interim Director Sylvia Henry. "Due to the overwhelmingly positive response from the first year's students, we see it as vital program that provides music educators with the same quality education we offer on campus."
Three years ago, in light of a state requirement that teachers receive a master's degree or at least 30 hours of graduate work to get their licenses renewed, the Ohio University School of Music recognized a need for flexible professional development opportunities for music educators. Many full-time teachers find it difficult to attend traditional graduate programs and still meet their work obligations. The distance learning degree allows them to meet the new state requirements with the least amount of disruption to their teaching schedule.
Coursework includes extensive training in music education and in the history and theory of music. The courses are designed to be relevant and flexible to the needs of individual teachers. The program helps teachers develop their research and writing skills as well as bring new methods and materials to their teaching environment. The degree includes some time on campus for entrance exams, exit exams and two summers of intensive two-week courses.
Program faculty include coordinator Dorothy Bryant, Sylvester Young, Milton Butler, Richard Suk, John Climer, Peter Jarjisian, Richard Wetzel and Allyn Reilly.
More information is available online at www.ohiou.edu/music/mmeddist.htm.
