NCTM Certification


Chairperson: Marcia Yurko(mtnacertification@njmta.com)



MTNA Professional Certification is the only existing national certification program for the independent studio music teacher. This Certification Program exists to improve the level of professionalism within the field of applied music teaching. It benefits the members of the profession, as well as the public who interacts with the profession. For the music teaching professional, Certification provides prestige, recognition, the potential for student recruitment and increased earning power. For the public, Certification helps readily identify competent applied music teachers in their communities. The designation of Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) is given to successful candidates who meet the professional competencies and standards required for MTNA certification. All applied music teachers who actively engage in the profession are eligible for MTNA Professional Certification. MTNA dues and NCTM renewal fees must be paid to maintain NCTM status. Teachers will not be listed in the NJMTA Yearbook as Nationally Certified unless these two requirements are met.

The MTNA certification program is well-designed and provides a level of improvement in professionalism within the field of music teaching. I could easily follow the project guidelines to recap and consolidate all my teaching experiences and resources into my profile. Among all the projects, I loved “present my teaching” which allowed me to work with my students and ensure that my teaching aligns with my teaching philosophy. I strongly encourage everyone who wants to advance their teaching skills to get the national certification.
— NCTM member