Degree Requirements

Master of Music: Musicology

Coursework Recommendations

Coursework recommendations are based on an evaluation of the student’s background in Western music history, world music cultures, languages, and bibliographic skill, and consider individual background and future goals. Students should bring prior transcripts or a list of all music courses from previous program(s) of study to meet with the Musicology program coordinator during orientation. 

Any coursework exceptions must be communicated in writing by the program coordinator and documented with Graduate Services.

Program of Study – 18 units, 2 Years

Students should select the highest level for courses that are cross listed.

Musicological Studies – 13 units 

Musicology Studies are courses at the 300 level or above. Students should select the 400 level for courses cross listed at the 300 and 400 level. 

General Electives, 300 level or above – 4 units 

General Electives are courses within or outside of the Bienen School of Music of the student’s choosing. Courses must be at the 300 level or above. 

Colloquium – 0 units, 6 registrations 

• MUSICOL 490 Musicology Colloquium 

Master’s Project – 1 unit 

• MUSICOL 485 Master’s Project 

The terminal requirement is a master’s project – a scholarly paper and public, professional presentation during the regularly schedule Musicology Colloquium in the spring quarter of the student’s second year. The paper should be a succinct revision of an original research paper previously submitted for a Musicology course of the student’s choosing. The presentation should be at least 20 minutes, and students should expect to respond to questions from the audience following the presentation. One week before the presentation, the student must submit a conference style abstract for circulation to the Musicology Colloquium email list. 

As with an independent study, the master’s project requires a faculty advisor who is responsible for submitting the grade for the project. All students should select their faculty advisor during the first year of study.