The MTNA Professional Certification program is a process for teachers who teach music to students at any age level in private or group settings that validates a teacher's expertise to those in and outside of the field. It signifies commitment to continued excellence in professional practice, increases visibility, builds credibility, and provides a goal for personal professional achievement.

The program is based upon a set of five standards defining what a competent music teacher should know and be able to do, including professional preparation, professional teaching practice, professional business management, professionalism and partnerships, and professional and   personal renewal. For more information about these standards, please visit the national website   

at www.mtnacertification.org/standards.

Upon fulfillment of these standards, applicants are granted the MTNA Professional Certification credential with the designation, Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM). In order to maintain the MTNA Professional Certification credential and designation, a NCTM must continue fulfilling the program's standards through the renewal process.