UB to offer online graduate certificate in music learning theory

BUFFALO, N.Y. – The University at Buffalo’s Graduate School of Education expands its online services this fall by offering a fully online advanced graduate certificate program in music learning theory, a curriculum that teaches educators how to instruct their students to become better musicians and appreciate music throughout their lives.

“Music learning theory is an explanation of how we learn when we learn music. It’s based on an extensive body of research and practical field-testing,” says Maria Runfola, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Learning and Instruction.  “This new certificate program will provide music teachers a comprehensive sequence for teaching musicianship to learners of all ages and abilities.”

The advanced graduate certificate in music learning is a 15-credit certificate designed for those interested in advanced study in music learning theory -- or MLT -- and its practical applications, Runfola says.

Those who successfully complete this program will have the knowledge and skill to guide others in developing better musicianship and to become lifelong learners and consumers of music.

The development of audiation, the unique concept stressed in music learning theory, helps bring meaning to music one listens to, performs, improvises, reads and writes. The program aims to make this the “overarching goal” of a music educator.

Similar in intent to courses delivered on-campus, the curriculum provides students with an opportunity to learn in a broad forum.

"The online component offers individuals who are unable to attend classes in person the chance to learn from the expert faculty at UB while gaining an understanding of MLT from a global perspective," says Runfola.

Interested applicants may apply for the new program through GSE’s online programs website: http://www.buffalo.edu/gse/online/programs/agc/mlt.html.  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.