Content and structure

The Master’s in Music Pedagogy, School Music I centres around the professional field of music teaching at secondary school level I.
The job profile of music teachers is very varied. In addition to teaching at schools or music schools, students also pursue their own artistic stage projects. The degree programme is therefore very broad, covering both pedagogical and artistic skill areas. Depending on which minor they choose, students can continue their studies in various areas, including music education research, producing and digital education projects.

Course content.

During the degree programme, you will refine your teaching and artistic skills. You will study the subject of music and teaching from a practical, creative, theoretical and research perspective, with the focus being on rock, pop and world music. Alongside your studies, you will ideally work part-time with a low degree of employment at a secondary school (recommendation: approximately 40% from the third semester), thus combining the teaching content with professional practice.
You will learn forms of collaborative learning, expand your communication skills and train your critical thinking.
In terms of methodology, we offer group learning, individual tuition, blended learning, internships and self-study.
Thanks to ZHdK’s strong network, you will gain the practical experience you need to prepare you for your professional life in education and the arts. 

Course structure.

Performance 
Here, you will enhance your musical skills on the piano and in singing, band practice and band leadership, in combination with performance training. 

Education
Here, the focus is on music teaching for adolescents at secondary level. Your studies will include pedagogical content from the fields of educational psychology and music didactics.
In mentored internships with secondary school classes, you will develop your own teaching practice and lay a solid foundation for future professional activity in this field. 

Subject-specific practice
In addition to composing/arranging and music theory, this will also include reflections on the role of music in society.

Graduation exam/project
The acquired skills will be documented via an artistic/creative stage project, teaching practice at secondary level and a research-based Master’s thesis on a topic related to music education.
 

Skills acquired in the course.

  • Giving contemporary music lessons with confident classroom management at secondary level
  • Staging musical projects with your own, personal artistic language
  • Supporting adolescents in the development of their musicality
  • Differentiated musical/artistic skills on the piano and with the voice
  • The ability to lead band workshops and vocal ensembles
  • Working with other teachers, school management, parents and the extended school environment in a spirit of partnership
  • Scientific/academic examination of music education issues 

Admissions requirements.

You have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification and are highly motivated to teach music.

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

  • The School Music I diploma is recognized by the cantons.
  • Alongside work at secondary schools, the professional field also includes music schools.
  • School Music I is offered as a part-time programme over six semesters.
  • School Music students benefit from the close links ZHdK has with their future professional field through regular internships.
  • You will study at the Toni Campus – a public, cultural and university campus for all artistic disciplines that offers ideal opportunities to use media, practise and rehearse.
  • You will benefit from the network with students from other artistic disciplines. 
  • Mehrspur, ZHdK’s on-campus music club, is a space for students to showcase their skills on the stage and a popular hub for social gatherings.