The MA program in ethnomusicology offers core research training with an emphasis on the development of fieldwork skills and the study of music as a cultural practice. Through courses offered in the School Music and the Department of Folklore, students develop a broad foundational knowledge that prepares them for advanced research, critical analysis, and public-facing work in ethnomusicology. Some program routes include a larger independent research and writing project. Demonstration of competence in a language other than English may be required if it is warranted by the student’s proposed research. The program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

MA with Coursework

Students in the coursework route typically complete courses over four semesters (fall and winter semesters) of full-time study. Students must normally complete a minimum of 30 credit hours. The required courses are:

1. Music 7001, Folklore 6030, and Folklore 6100.
2. Twenty-one credit hours to be selected from Music and Folklore courses; one elective (3 credit hours) may be a relevant course offered in another discipline (with approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee, which administers the graduate programs in Ethnomusicology).

MA with Coursework and a Major Research Paper

Students must normally complete a minimum of 24 credit hours, plus a major research paper. Further courses beyond the minimum number may be required, depending on the student’s background. The required courses are:

1. Music 7001, Folklore 6030, and Folklore 6100.
2. Fifteen credit hours to be selected from Music and Folklore courses. One elective (3 credit hours) may be a relevant course offered in another discipline (with the approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee).
3. Music 7002 (Major Research Paper)

In Music 7002, students complete a major research paper on a topic chosen by the student and approved by their supervisor. A successful major research paper will use contemporary theories and methods from ethnomusicology and folklore to understand a musical practice, music scene, or music culture. Supervision is assigned by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee.

MA with Coursework and a Thesis

In special circumstances, students may apply to the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee complete the MA degree through coursework and a thesis. Students must normally complete a minimum of 21 credit hours plus a thesis. The required courses are:

1. Music 7001, Folklore 6030, and Folklore 6100.
2. Twelve credit hours to be selected from Music and Folklore courses. One elective (3 credit hours) may be a relevant course offered in another discipline (with the approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee).

Students who take this route must submit a thesis in accordance with General Regulation Theses and Reports from the School of Graduate Studies. A thesis proposal consisting of a statement of topic, working title, plan of research, and preliminary bibliography shall be submitted by the student to the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee no later than the beginning of the student’s second term of study. Supervision is assigned by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee.