This study aims to map global research trends on the structure and organization of music education faculty in higher education from 1980 to 2025. Using a quantitative bibliometric approach, data were extracted from the Scopus database and analyzed through PRISMA screening, VOSviewer network visualization, and Biblioshiny statistical mapping. A total of 1,046 publications were identified and examined to reveal patterns in publication growth, authorship, geographic distribution, thematic clusters, and collaboration networks. Results indicate a steady increase in research productivity since 2015, with a significant surge during 2020 to 2025 reflecting digital transformation and post-pandemic restructuring in higher education. The analysis identifies five core thematic clusters shaping research on music education faculty structure: Faculty Development and Learning Communities; Academic Leadership and Governance; Digital Pedagogy and Hybrid Learning; Equity, Diversity, and Faculty Well-being; and Interdisciplinary and Global Collaboration. These findings reveal a paradigm shift from traditional pedagogy toward data-driven, inclusive, and technology-enhanced faculty management models. The study concludes that research by music education faculty has evolved into a globally connected, interdisciplinary field that aligns artistic practice with institutional innovation. It recommends fostering international partnerships, digital competencies, and sustainable faculty development policies to enhance the resilience and inclusivity of higher music education worldwide.
Dong et al. (2026) studied this question.