Considered a comprehensive area of study, music education may be aimed towards preparing educators to effectively teach musical concepts to students. Some topics that may be covered include how to teach students to recognize, read and compose music, in addition to performance training.

A certificate is proof of qualification of a certain set of skills. Students who obtain a certificate have completed educational requirements and tests. Through completion, they become ready to pursue a degree or diploma, or to head into the professional world in their field of expertise.