Popular Music in Higher Education: Models of Change
Music Will believes higher education is one of the most powerful levers of change in the music education ecosystem. For more than a decade, we have equipped music educators with the skills, knowledge, and resources to bring modern band into their teacher preparation programs. Modern Band Fellows have built modern band into existing courses, designed new ones, launched ensembles, and most recently, created degree tracks that allow popular musicians to become music educators.
Who this directory is for:
Higher Ed Faculty
- See real-world examples of how peer institutions incorporate popular music into teacher preparation programs.
- Download curriculum guides directly from the directory or request course syllabi to adapt for your campus.
- Learn how other universities created popular music tracks/concentrations.
K–12 Educators
- Find colleges and universities that support students drawn to popular music.
- Identify graduate programs geared towards popular music education.
Prospective Students
- Discover music education programs with popular music in their coursework.
- Find higher-ed programs that allow you to audition on your primary instrument and continue playing throughout your degree.
Who this directory is for:
Higher Ed Faculty
- See real-world examples of how peer institutions incorporate popular music into teacher preparation programs.
- Download curriculum guides directly from the directory or request course syllabi to adapt for your campus.
- Learn how other universities created popular music tracks/concentrations.
K–12 Educators
- Find colleges and universities that support students drawn to popular music.
- Identify graduate programs geared towards popular music education.
Prospective Students
- Discover music education programs with popular music in their coursework.
- Find higher-ed programs that allow you to audition on your primary instrument and continue playing throughout your degree.
Most entries link to the curriculum guide. Some syllabi are available upon request (email david.dockan@musicwill.org).

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