Music (Musicology), MA

2 Years Online Masters Program

Arizona State University Tempe

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (MA) in Music with a concentration in Musicology at Arizona State University (ASU) is designed for students who want to explore music through historical, cultural, theoretical, and interdisciplinary perspectives. The programme examines musical traditions, genres, performance practices, instruments, and the role of music in human experience, while developing advanced research, critical analysis, and scholarly writing skills. Students can explore Western and non-Western musical traditions, including music from the Americas, Middle East, Central Asia, Latin America, and Indonesia.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 30 credit hours and includes core courses, music theory, electives, performance ensembles, and a thesis. Rather than following a fixed year-by-year module sequence, students develop an individual plan of study with guidance from the academic unit.

Core Musicology Studies

Students develop essential research and academic writing skills through MHL 532 – Music Bibliography and MHL 691 – Seminars. These courses introduce scholarly research methods, musicological literature, historical investigation, and critical approaches to understanding musical traditions. Students also complete music theory coursework to strengthen their understanding of musical structures and analytical methods.

Advanced Music Studies and Electives

Students deepen their knowledge through music electives and open electives, exploring specialised subjects in music history, musical literature, performance, and interdisciplinary research. At least 20 credit hours must be in music history and literature, allowing students to develop expertise in their chosen areas of musicological inquiry. They also participate in performance ensembles to gain practical musical experience.

Research and Thesis

The final stage focuses on independent scholarly research through MHL 599 – Thesis, which carries six credit hours. Students complete a substantial research project demonstrating advanced competence in musicology or ethnomusicology. The programme also requires written and oral comprehensive examinations and a foreign language examination or an approved language-reading course.

Focus Areas

Musicology, Music History, Ethnomusicology, Music Theory, Western Music, Non-Western Music, Medieval Music, Nineteenth-Century Music, Jazz Studies, Popular Music, Musical Modernism, Experimental Music, Sound Studies, Ecomusicology, Music and Cultural Studies, Improvisation, Music and Well-being, Performance Practices.

Learning Outcomes

Conduct advanced scholarly research in musicology, develop academic research papers using established musicological methods, analyse musical genres and historical traditions, evaluate the cultural and social significance of music, understand Western and non-Western musical practices, apply music theory and analytical techniques, examine the relationship between music and society, develop independent research projects, communicate scholarly arguments effectively, and defend original research through a thesis and comprehensive examinations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MA in Music (Musicology) is accredited through the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and meets its curricular standards. Arizona State University is also institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Arizona State University's School of Music, Dance and Theatre offers opportunities to study with scholars specialising in Western and non-Western musical traditions, including music from the Americas, Middle East, Central Asia, and Latin America. Students can also gain practical performance experience through ensembles such as Latin Marimba and Indonesian Gamelan groups. The programme develops research, writing, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary skills that can support careers in music research, education, cultural organisations, arts advocacy, and higher education. No specific programme-level employability ranking or graduate employment rate is published on the official programme page.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Arizona State University Tempe, the MA in Music (Musicology) program offers students a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for a variety of careers in music research, education, and beyond. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning experience, allowing them to engage deeply with musicology through hands-on projects and collaborative work.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including:

- Research Laboratories: Access to specialized labs equipped for music research, allowing students to conduct in-depth studies and experiments.
- Digital Tools: Familiarity with software such as Sonic Visualiser and MuseScore, which are essential for analyzing and composing music.
- Group Projects: Collaborative assignments that encourage teamwork and the sharing of diverse perspectives on musicology topics.
- Internships: Opportunities to work with local music organizations, archives, and cultural institutions, providing real-world experience and networking.
- Field Trips: Visits to museums, concerts, and music festivals that enrich students' understanding of music in various contexts.
- Libraries: Access to the ASU Music Library, which houses an extensive collection of scores, recordings, and music literature for research and study.
- Institutes and Centers: Collaboration with the ASU School of Music and other interdisciplinary centers that focus on music research and performance.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic journey but also prepare you for a successful career in musicology.

Consider applying to the MA Music (Musicology) program at ASU Tempe to immerse yourself in a vibrant learning environment that values both theory and practice!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MA in Music (Musicology) at Arizona State University Tempe opens up a world of exciting career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in roles such as music historians, cultural resource managers, and music educators, where they can apply their expertise in diverse settings. The skills and knowledge gained through this program prepare students for a successful career in the music industry and academia:

- University Services: ASU offers robust career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for music students. The School of Music also hosts guest lectures and masterclasses with industry professionals, providing invaluable insights and connections.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from ASU's music programs have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average salary for musicologists and related roles can range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on the position and experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: ASU has established partnerships with organizations such as the Phoenix Symphony and the Arizona Opera, offering students opportunities for internships and collaborative projects that enhance their practical experience and professional network.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MA in Music (Musicology) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring that your degree meets high educational standards and is recognized nationally, which can significantly enhance your employability.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni from the program have gone on to work in prestigious institutions, including universities, museums, and cultural organizations, showcasing the program's strong reputation and the success of its graduates.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MA in Music (Musicology), you may choose to pursue a PhD in Musicology or a related field, which can lead to advanced research opportunities and academic positions at universities. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications in music education or music therapy, further broadening your career prospects and expertise in the field.

Choosing ASU for your graduate studies in Musicology not only equips you with essential skills but also connects you with a vibrant community and a wealth of resources to support your future endeavors.