The M.A. in Ethnomusicology program offers core research training with equal emphasis on the development of fieldwork and archival skills. In addition to courses that ensure foundational breadth of knowledge, students undertake an independent research and writing project.

The M.A. program will normally be completed within six consecutive semesters of full-time study. The degree is normally taken by completing course work and a major research paper. In special circumstances, a student may apply to complete the degree by completing course work and a thesis. Demonstration of competence in a language other than English may be required if warranted by the research proposed by the student.

Coursework M.A.

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 background of the student. The required courses are:

1. Music 7001; Folklore 6030.
2. Folklore 6100.
3. One area or genre studies course (3 credit hours) relevant to the research of the student.
4. Twelve credit hours to be selected from approved 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 will also complete a research paper (Music 7002) on a topic chosen by the student with his/her supervisor’s approval. Proposals for topics and supervisors will be vetted by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee no later than the beginning of the third term of study. The paper will normally demonstrate the student’s ability to apply methodologies and theoretical constructs, learned in the courses taken, to a specific repertory, or performance context.

Thesis M.A.

This program of study is available by special application to the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee. Students must normally complete a minimum of 21 credit hours plus a thesis. The required courses are:

1. Music 7001; Folklore 6030.
2. One of Folklore 6100 or Music 6002.
3. One area or genre studies course (3 credit hours) relevant to the research of the student.
4. Nine credit hours to be selected from approved 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 will also complete a thesis submitted in accordance with General Regulation Theses and Reports of the School of Graduate Studies. A thesis proposal, consisting of a statement of topic, working title, plan of research, and preliminary bibliography, with the name of the preferred Supervisor, shall be submitted by the student to the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee no later than the beginning of the third term of study.