MTNA Professional Certification Process

The MTNA Professional Certification Program exists to improve the level of professionalism within the field of music teaching. It benefits the members of the profession itself, as well as the public who interacts with the professional. For the music teaching professional, certification provides prestige, recognition and the potential for student recruitment and increased earning power. For the public, certification helps readily identify competent music teachers in their communities.

The program is based upon a set of five standards defining what a competent music teacher should know and be able to do. Upon fulfillment of these standards, applicants are granted the MTNA Professional Certification credential with the designation, Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM). All music teachers actively engaged in the profession are eligible for MTNA Professional Certification.

Professional Certification Standards

The MTNA Professional Certification credential and the designation of Nationally Certified Teacher of Music is given to successful candidates who meet the professional competencies and standards required for MTNA Certification. Learn about the five standards of MTNA Professional Certification.

Certification Commission

The purpose of the National Certification Commission is to administer the National Certification Program and recommend certification policy to the MTNA Board of Directors. The NCC comprises a representative from each of MTNA's seven divisions and a chair. Meet Your Commissioners.