Music education fully accredited

The music education program is receiving a national stamp of approval.

The National Association of Schools of Music has notified the university of its recent full accreditation. The Department of Music Education has held associate membership since 1991.

The Reston, Va.-based NASM, founded in 1924, is the professional agency establishing nationally recognized standards for undergraduate and graduate degree programs in music. Accreditation is awarded after extensive review by peer institutions.

MSU's bachelor of music education degree was recognized as meeting academic and procedural guidelines established by the association.

"This accreditation is the result of hard work by many of our faculty members," said Dr. Michael R. Brown, department head. "It recognizes our commitment to providing an outstanding academic preparation for our students."

Mississippi State offers bachelor's degrees in instrumental music education and vocal music education. With approximately 55 majors, it provides specialized training in music theory and composition, keyboard, wind and percussion, voice, and strings.

Among performing ensembles the department sponsors are the Famous Maroon Band, the Wind, Jazz and Percussion ensembles, and the Symphonic and Concert bands.