How to Become a Music Teacher in South Dakota for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Music educators in South Dakota are passionate but unsure how to turn that passion into a licensed teaching career. Without clear guidance on certification steps, degree requirements, and available programs, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the process.

In South Dakota, the average annual salary for music teachers is approximately $53,000, making it both a fulfilling and financially viable career. This article breaks down the exact steps needed to become a licensed music teacher in the state—from educational pathways to certification exams. Prepared with insights from career planning experts, it’s designed to help readers confidently move forward and resolve the confusion around starting a music education career.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Music Teacher in South Dakota

The job outlook for music teachers in South Dakota is stable, with steady demand in public schools and community programs across the state.
The average salary for music teachers in South Dakota is approximately $50,000 annually, varying by district and experience.
Noteworthy universities offering music education programs include the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University.
Obtaining state certification requires a bachelor’s degree, student teaching experience, and passing the Praxis exams in music education.

What are the steps to becoming a music teacher in South Dakota?
What is the minimum educational requirement to become a music teacher in South Dakota?
What skills do you need to become a music teacher in South Dakota?
What certifications and licenses do you need to become a music teacher in South Dakota?
How much can you earn as a music teacher in South Dakota?
What is the job market like for music teachers in South Dakota?
What career and advancement opportunities can you expect as a music teacher in South Dakota?
What challenges should you expect as a music teacher in South Dakota?
Can combining music education with special education boost career prospects?
Is it worth it to become a music teacher in South Dakota?
What is the most affordable path to obtaining a teaching credential?
Can integrating early childhood education enhance a music teacher's career in South Dakota?
Can diversifying into art education broaden my career opportunities?
Can integrating history education expand my career opportunities?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Music Teacher in South Dakota

What are the steps to becoming a music teacher in South Dakota?

To become a music teacher in South Dakota, candidates must follow a structured path encompassing education, practical training, and state certification. The journey typically begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in music education or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. This degree should cover essential areas such as music theory, performance, pedagogy, and general education courses aligned with teacher preparation standards.

Hands-on experience is a critical component of training in South Dakota. Students are required to complete student teaching or internship placements in local schools, where they gain practical skills in classroom management and learn to adapt instructional methods for diverse learners.

After obtaining the degree, prospective music teachers must pursue licensure through the South Dakota Department of Education. The licensure process includes passing the Praxis exams relevant to music education:

Praxis Music Content Knowledge Test – To demonstrate expertise in music subject matter
Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Exam – To validate teaching skills and pedagogy knowledge

South Dakota offers two levels of teaching certification:

Provisional Certificate: Issued initially for three years, during which new teachers complete mentoring and professional development requirements.
Standard Certificate: Available after fulfilling provisional requirements, renewable every five years upon meeting continuing education criteria.

Maintaining certification requires ongoing professional development to keep up with educational advances and instructional strategies. Candidates should plan for continuing education credits as part of their career progression.

What is the minimum educational requirement to become a music teacher in South Dakota?

Candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree in music education or a closely related field from an accredited institution. This degree must include completion of an approved teacher preparation program that combines coursework in music theory, pedagogy, and practical student teaching experience. This hands-on training helps prospective teachers develop essential classroom skills and music instructional strategies.

After earning the degree, South Dakota music teacher certification requirements include passing the Praxis exams. These exams evaluate both general teaching abilities and specialized music knowledge. To successfully navigate these tests, candidates should engage in thorough preparation using comprehensive review materials that cover music theory, history, and effective teaching methods. Attending review seminars offered by local universities like Black Hills State University or South Dakota State University can provide valuable insights and exam techniques.

Additional support is available through organizations such as the South Dakota Music Education Association, which offers workshops and networking opportunities that enhance professional development. For self-study, utilizing practice tests and study guides provided by ETS, the Praxis exam provider, is highly recommended to become familiar with the exam format and question types. Aspiring teachers can also explore the best online bachelor's in education programs to find flexible degree options that fit their lifestyle and career goals.

What skills do you need to become a music teacher in South Dakota?

To become a music teacher in South Dakota, you need a combination of musical expertise, pedagogical knowledge, and interpersonal skills. Key competencies include:

Musical Proficiency: Strong skills in vocal or instrumental music, music theory, and history are essential.
Educational Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in music education from an accredited institution is required. Programs such as those offered by South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota prepare students for K–12 music certification.
Certification Exams: Passing the Praxis II Music Content Knowledge test (5113) and a Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam is mandatory for licensure.
Classroom Management: Effective classroom management and the ability to engage students are crucial.
Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues and parents are important.

A music teacher from South Dakota shared their journey in acquiring these essential skills. Initially overwhelmed by balancing the demands of mastering musical techniques while learning teaching methods, they found workshops hosted by the South Dakota Music Educators Association invaluable. These sessions offered practical strategies tailored to the diverse learning styles encountered in classrooms.

For those exploring this path, staying informed about state resources and engaging in ongoing training is recommended. Prospective educators interested in careers in childhood development can explore further guidance and opportunities at careers in childhood development, which can complement the skill set needed for music education.

What certifications and licenses do you need to become a music teacher in South Dakota?

To become a certified music teacher in South Dakota, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in music education or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. This academic foundation ensures you have both the musical expertise and pedagogical knowledge necessary for effective teaching.

Next, you need to obtain a teaching certificate through the South Dakota Department of Education (SD DOE). This process requires passing two main sets of exams: the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, which assesses general teaching competencies, and the Praxis Subject Assessments in Music, which focus on your subject-specific knowledge. Preparing thoroughly for these exams is essential; use official Praxis study guides and practice tests to build confidence and mastery.

In addition to exams, candidates must complete a background check as part of the certification protocol. Staying up to date with any changes in state certification requirements is critical, so regularly consulting the SD DOE’s official resources is recommended.

To improve your chances of success, consider these actionable strategies:

Create a detailed study schedule that balances general teaching skills and music-specific content.
Engage in mock exams and practice tests to familiarize yourself with exam formats and timing.
Join local networks like the South Dakota Music Education Association (SDMEA) to access workshops, review sessions, and peer support.
Seek mentorship from experienced South Dakota music teachers who have navigated the certification process successfully.

With approximately 1,500 music educators employed in South Dakota’s public schools, securing certification with strong credentials can significantly enhance your employment opportunities within the state’s competitive job market.

How much can you earn as a music teacher in South Dakota?

Entry-level teachers with a bachelor’s degree usually start around $40,000 annually. Those with a master’s degree or higher can expect salaries closer to or above $55,000. With additional certifications and years of service, incremental increases are common. On average, music teachers in public schools earn between $42,000 and $60,000 per year, often aligning with or slightly exceeding the state’s general teacher average of about $51,000. This structured growth path offers both stability and clear financial progression.

In contrast, the average earnings for South Dakota music teachers in private schools tend to be lower and more variable. Salaries in private institutions often range from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the size and resources of the school. Additionally, many private music instructors work on an hourly or per-lesson basis, with rates typically between $25 and $60 per hour. This model provides flexibility but less job security than public school positions. Prospective teachers interested in private or freelance opportunities should consider diversifying their income streams, possibly supplementing with individual lessons or small group instruction.

For those seeking to enhance their qualifications and salary prospects, exploring online MLIS programs or other advanced degrees can be beneficial. Higher education and certifications often lead to better pay and expanded career opportunities within South Dakota’s competitive music education landscape.

What is the job market like for music teachers in South Dakota?

The job market for music teachers in South Dakota is modest but stable, offering consistent opportunities for those entering the field.

Employment Outlook

South Dakota employed approximately 180 postsecondary art, drama, and music teachers, with projections indicating a slight increase to 190 by 2030. This represents a 6% growth over the decade, with an estimated 20 annual job openings due to growth and replacements. While this growth rate is modest, it aligns with national trends, where the music teacher job market is expected to grow by 3.1% between 2022 and 2032.

Salary Insights

Music teachers in South Dakota can expect an average hourly wage of $28.77, with salaries typically ranging from $21.30 to $44.03 per hour . This translates to an annual salary range of approximately $44,300 to $91,590, depending on experience and education level. It's worth noting that these figures are slightly above the national average for music teachers.

Demand and Opportunities

Despite the relatively small size of the job market, there is a consistent demand for music teachers across various educational levels. Elementary schools, in particular, often have general music programs, providing entry-level opportunities for new educators . Additionally, the state's efforts to address teacher shortages, including initiatives like Educators Rising South Dakota, aim to bolster the pipeline of future educators .

For those exploring related educational paths, it's beneficial to research broader child development job openings and related fields to diversify career options. Resources like child development job openings provide valuable insights into alternative or complementary roles within education and youth services.

What career and advancement opportunities can you expect as a music teacher in South Dakota?

Aspiring music teachers in South Dakota can expect a variety of career advancement opportunities within the state's public school systems. Starting with classroom experience in K-12 settings, especially in rural and underserved areas, educators gain valuable skills that position them for roles such as department chairs, curriculum coordinators, or district-level music supervisors.

Over time, teachers may also explore leadership or administrative paths, or specialize as private instructors and community music program directors. Understanding these progression steps is crucial when considering career advancement for music teachers in South Dakota.

Professional development is actively supported through organizations like the South Dakota Music Education Association (SDMEA), which offers workshops, conferences, and networking events. These resources help music educators stay updated on the latest teaching methods, technology integration, and performance practices.

Institutions such as Black Hills State University and South Dakota State University provide graduate programs designed to deepen expertise. For those seeking further specialization or advanced credentials, pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees at universities like the University of South Dakota can open doors to college-level teaching or higher leadership roles. To explore a range of teaching degree job roles that align with these educational paths can provide additional clarity on career options.

What challenges should you expect as a music teacher in South Dakota?

A key challenge for aspiring music teachers in South Dakota is navigating limited funding and resources for arts programs. Budget constraints often restrict access to quality instruments, sheet music, and music technology, especially in rural districts. To overcome this, prospective teachers should proactively seek grants, community partnerships, and fundraising opportunities to supplement classroom materials and maintain a robust program.

Meeting the state certification requirements is another important hurdle. South Dakota requires public school teachers to hold valid teaching certificates, which involve passing content-specific exams and completing accredited teacher preparation programs. Music educators must prepare for both general pedagogy and specialized music proficiency assessments. Candidates should allocate ample time for study and consider preparatory courses or workshops to ensure success in certification exams.

Employment opportunities are often concentrated in rural schools with smaller student populations, resulting in fewer full-time music teaching positions. To enhance job prospects, candidates should develop versatile teaching skills, including choir, band, and general music instruction, to meet diverse school needs. Urban centers like Sioux Falls and Rapid City are more competitive, so demonstrating flexibility and a broad skill set is advantageous.

Additional practical strategies include:

Preparing to balance multiple roles such as directing extracurricular activities and organizing community concerts.
Developing differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate varied student skill levels, especially where beginner music education is limited.
Staying current with curriculum updates and integrating music technology effectively into teaching practice.

Can combining music education with special education boost career prospects?

Integrating a dual-certification approach not only diversifies your teaching strategies but also addresses the growing demand for inclusive classrooms. Achieving an additional credential in special education—such as obtaining a special education teacher certification in South Dakota—empowers educators to create more adaptable learning environments. This dual expertise can lead to broader job opportunities, enhanced support for diverse student populations, and increased flexibility in career advancement across various school settings.

Is it worth it to become a music teacher in South Dakota?

Becoming a music teacher in South Dakota offers a balanced combination of professional opportunity and quality of life. The average salary for music teachers is approximately $52,000 annually, which, while modest compared to larger states, aligns well with South Dakota’s lower cost of living. This means teachers can maintain a comfortable lifestyle without the financial pressures common in more expensive regions.

Career advancement is clearly supported within the state's education system. Music educators can move beyond classroom teaching into leadership roles such as department chair, curriculum coordinator, or district-level arts specialist. Pursuing National Board Certification is a practical strategy to increase earning potential and open doors to leadership positions. The South Dakota Department of Education offers structured licensure renewal and advancement pathways, encouraging continuous professional growth.

For those seeking to further their expertise, graduate programs in music education are available at institutions like the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University. Additionally, professional development opportunities through organizations such as the South Dakota Music Educators Association provide valuable workshops and networking events to enhance teaching skills and stay current with educational trends.

What do music teachers say about their careers in South Dakota?

Starting my journey at a local public school, I found the community’s appreciation for arts education inspiring and supportive. The job stability here is a huge plus. This career has given me a sense of belonging. - Clive

Graduating from South Dakota State University opened doors for me to begin teaching music in a private school close to home. The challenges of rural school access have only strengthened my commitment and adaptability as an educator. - Marie

Attending the University of Sioux Falls gave me excellent training and access to professional development programs that helped advance my career. The environment here encourages ongoing learning and collaboration among educators, which has enriched my teaching practice. - Daniel

What is the most affordable path to obtaining a teaching credential?

Explore cost-effective enrollment options by researching programs that consolidate online coursework, practical training, and state-specific requirements. Identifying alternative funding sources—such as scholarships, grants, or employer-supported initiatives—can further mitigate financial barriers. Consider leveraging resources like our article on the cheapest teaching credential program in South Dakota to streamline expenses without compromising on quality and professional preparation.

Can integrating early childhood education enhance a music teacher's career in South Dakota?

Expanding your expertise to include early childhood education can diversify your teaching portfolio and open up new career avenues. Integrating tailored music instruction for younger learners not only fosters creativity but also cultivates foundational learning skills that benefit overall child development. This dual approach can lead to increased job flexibility, opportunities for specialized funding, and innovative program development. For detailed guidance on parallel certification pathways, review preschool teacher requirements in South Dakota.

Can diversifying into art education broaden my career opportunities?

Expanding your expertise into art education can complement your music teaching by opening avenues for interdisciplinary courses and community partnerships. This diversification may enhance curriculum innovation, attract varied funding opportunities, and meet emerging educational trends that favor a broader arts integration approach. For additional career insights, consider exploring how to become an art teacher in South Dakota.

Can integrating history education expand my career opportunities?

Expanding your skill set by integrating history education can provide a unique interdisciplinary edge, enabling you to design curricula that connect musical traditions with historical contexts. This approach not only enriches lesson plans but also opens alternative career pathways in curriculum development and interdisciplinary teaching roles. Leveraging historical insights may foster innovative partnerships and grant opportunities, enhancing both your classroom impact and career flexibility. For educators interested in dual certification options, refer to how to become a history teacher in South Dakota for detailed guidance.

Key Findings

The average annual salary for music teachers in South Dakota ranges between $42,000 and $60,000, with entry-level positions starting around $40,000.
Postsecondary music teaching positions are projected to grow by 6% in South Dakota by 2030, increasing from 180 to 190 positions.
The average hourly wage for music teachers in South Dakota is $28.77, with a range from $21.30 to $44.03.
South Dakota has approximately 1,500 music educators working in public schools statewide.
On average, 20 music teaching job openings are expected annually in South Dakota due to both growth and replacement.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Music Teacher in South Dakota

How can I become a music teacher in the USA?

For international candidates, securing an appropriate visa (F-1 for study or H-1B for employment) is essential before beginning your studies or teaching career. Always check South Dakota’s current certification rules as they can update periodically.

How can I get started as a music teacher?

To start a career as a music teacher in South Dakota, begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in music education or a closely related field that integrates both musical skills and teaching methods. Focus on developing strong musicianship, communication, and classroom management abilities during your studies. Gain practical experience through student teaching placements or internships, as hands-on training is crucial for effective classroom performance.

What states pay music teachers the most?

Music teachers in South Dakota earn an average salary of around $45,000 annually, which is below the national top-paying states. For those considering relocation or comparing career options, it’s useful to know that states like California, New York, and Massachusetts offer significantly higher salaries, with averages of $74,000, $72,500, and $70,800 respectively in 2023. These higher salaries reflect stronger funding for arts education and higher costs of living.

Can I teach music without a degree?

In South Dakota, the rules are stricter. The state primarily requires a bachelor’s degree in music education and successful completion of state licensure exams to teach music in public schools. Alternative routes without a music-related degree are not commonly available here, so prospective teachers should plan accordingly. For those interested in teaching music without a degree, exploring states with alternative certification programs like Texas or Florida may be a practical strategy.

References:

HarrisonParrott. (2024, October 22). Key statistics and trends in music education and the classical music industry. HarrisonParrott.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Kindergarten and elementary school teachers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Zippia. (2025).Music teacher job outlook and growth in the US [2025]. Zippia.