Students who major in music education choose an emphasis in either choral or instrumental music. The curriculum provides a balanced program of applied music, theoretical studies, professional education studies, and field work experiences. Emphasis is upon contemporary music education with training and experiences designed to meet the varying needs of today's schools.

Music education students at Ohio University receive intensive musical training on their chosen instrument or voice, and participate in the performing ensembles. They study music history, literature, theory, and conducting. Methods courses help students develop teaching skills in a variety of settings from marching concert, and jazz bands, to elementary classroom and high school choral music. Students also learn about modern technology in education as they work in the school's keyboard, electronic music, and computer labs.