GCES Elementary Music Teaching and Learning FAQs
Do you have questions about the Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies in Elementary Music Teaching and Learning? Perhaps they are answered here. If not, contact us at gcesinfo@ualberta.ca - we're happy to help.
When can I start taking courses in the certificate?
Applications for the Spring Term are accepted until February 28 (spring term runs from early May until mid-June). For Summer Term, the deadline is March 31 (summer term runs from early July until mid-August). You must take a course in the term for which you apply.
Do I have to take one course per term or just four in four years?
You must be enrolled in one course in your first term after admission, after which you have four years to complete the certificate. If you intend to interrupt your program for any reason, contact the GCES Graduate Administrator immediately at gcesinfo@ualberta.ca.
The courses previously were EDEL courses and now they are EDU. Are these courses the same as in previous years?
Yes, the courses are exactly the same as in past years; we are just using a different numbering system.
If I already have taken 2 or 3 of the music education certificate courses at the U of A can I bring them into this Elementary Music Teaching and Learning certificate?
In 2025, you can receive transfer credit for one course taken in a previous term.
I just want to take one or two courses and am not interested in a certificate. Can I still do that?
Yes, you can take one to two courses through Open Studies and not be in the certificate program. However, if you decide to enroll in the certificate program after 2024 then only one of those classes will count toward the certificate. If you are accepted into to the Master’s program then both courses could be brought into the Master’s degree.
If I miss the deadline for a certificate, can I still take one of these music education courses in Spring or Summer?
Yes, you can take one course through Open Studies and then you must apply to the certificate to have that course count toward the certificate. In 2025, only one of those Open Studies courses can be given transfer credit into the certificate.
Can I bring a U of A graduate course outside of Music Education into the certificate?
No, the certificate is specific to Elementary Music Teaching and Learning, but you may be able to bring that course into a Master’s program (you will have to confirm with the Master's program of your choice).
If I enroll in the certificate do I have to pay a fee every year like Open Studies?
No, your application fee to the certificate allows you to take courses for four years.
Does this certificate ladder into a Master’s program?
A Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies (GCES) provides students with up to 12 credits in advanced standing in the M.Ed. in Educational Studies program or the M.Ed. in Elementary Education - Curriculum and Pedagogy. Completion of the GCES does not guarantee acceptance into either of these programs, but if you are admitted, you will have only 6 courses remaining to complete your M.Ed.
What is the timeline for being able to bring my certificate courses into a Master’s degree?
Individual courses may receive transfer credit into a Master's program within eight years. The Certificate can be laddered into a Master's program within five years of completion. Please confirm with the Master's program of your choice.
Can I take a course in another area, outside of music education?
Yes, but it won’t be counted toward the certificate - only music education courses can receive transfer credit into the certificate. Other courses may count toward a Master's, but that has to be confirmed with your program of choice.
What happens if something goes wrong (I’m ill or my partner or parent s need full time care) and I can’t take a class?
Options are available for continuing your studies at a later date. Contact us at gcesinfo@ualberta.ca to discuss your particular situation.
Do these courses count toward the TQS salary scale?
Yes. Each graduate-level course counts as 0.125 years on the TQS salary scale. More information is available here (see section 15.02).
Will I receive Alberta Teacher Certification through this program?
No. These graduate certificates will enhance your skills and understanding in the particular disciplinary focus area, but they are not a path to teacher certification.
The University of Alberta offers the Internationally Educated Teachers Bridging Program for educators who have earned their teaching qualifications in a country other than Canada and are interested in acquiring certification to teach in Alberta.
What grading system does the program use?
The program uses the University of Alberta's 4-point scale grading system. For more information about the University of Alberta grading system, see the grading system at the Office of the Registrar.
What if I don't quite meet all of the requirements?
Please contact the GCES graduate administrator at gcesinfo@ualberta.ca to discuss your options.