
University of Cincinnati

Ohio
,United States

Program Name
Masters in Musicology
Overview

The Master of Musicology program at the University of Cincinnati is a meticulously crafted course designed to immerse students in the multifaceted world of music. This rigorous academic journey delves deep into the study of music as an art form, cultural phenomenon, and historical artifact, providing a robust foundation for a career in musicology or ethnomusicology. With an emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills, students will examine music from various perspectives, learning how to appreciate its complexities and significance across different cultures and time periods. The program prepares students not only for academic pursuits but also for real-world applications in various industries related to music.
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, incorporating essential courses such as Music History, Ethnomusicology, Music Theory, and specialized electives that cater to individual interests and career goals. Students will engage with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing them to develop their own research interests while benefiting from faculty mentorship. The program’s interactive nature enables students to participate in hands-on projects, workshops, and seminars that foster collaborative learning experiences. This approach ensures that graduates emerge not only with extensive theoretical knowledge but also with the practical skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Students enrolled in this program will have access to world-class resources, including the university's extensive library and digital archives, which house an impressive collection of scores, recordings, and scholarly works. Research opportunities abound, with students often encouraged to pursue independent projects or collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research in musicology. The faculty at the College-Conservatory of Music comprises renowned scholars and experienced practitioners, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their teaching. Their mentorship is invaluable as they guide students through the intricacies of music research, providing essential networking opportunities within the industry.
In addition to a rich academic environment, the program emphasizes strong industry connections. Students have the opportunity to engage in internships with local arts organizations, music festivals, and academic institutions, giving them firsthand experience in the field. These connections not only enhance students’ resumes but also significantly improve their employability upon graduation. The university's dedication to supporting students in their career paths is reflected in its comprehensive career services, which offer guidance in job searching, resume building, and interview preparation.
Graduates of the Master of Musicology program at the University of Cincinnati find themselves well-equipped for a variety of career pathways. Alumni have successfully pursued roles in academia, arts administration, music publishing, and cultural organizations. Many have also gone on to achieve notable successes, contributing valuable research to the field and influencing the direction of contemporary music studies. Their testimonials frequently highlight the transformative impact of the program on their professional lives, showcasing a history of successful placement and a supportive alumni network that continues to foster connections long after graduation.
Why Study Musicology at the University of Cincinnati?
- Prestigious Faculty: Learn from esteemed faculty members who are leaders in the field of musicology and ethnomusicology, providing insights and guidance to aspiring scholars.
- Diverse Learning Environment: Experience an inclusive atmosphere with a vibrant international student community, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.
- Extensive Research Resources: Benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities and a comprehensive library that supports rigorous research in music.
- Career-Focused Opportunities: Take advantage of internship programs and industry partnerships that enhance career pathways and provide valuable real-world experience.
- Strong Alumni Network: Join a community of successful graduates who are making their mark in various sectors of the music world and beyond.
Admission to the Master of Musicology program is competitive. Prospective students are typically required to possess a Bachelor's degree in music or a related field, showcasing a strong foundation in music theory and history. Additional requirements may include submission of a portfolio of work, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose that outlines their research interests and career ambitions.
For non-native English speakers, proficiency tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL are mandatory. Minimum scores of 6.5 on the IELTS and 80 on the TOEFL demonstrate the language skills necessary for academic success. The application process also involves a standard application fee and submission of various documents as specified by the university.
Overall, the Master of Musicology program at the University of Cincinnati stands out as a beacon for aspiring music scholars. With its exceptional curriculum, expert faculty, and robust career support, students are well-prepared to become influential voices in the field of musicology and beyond. Whether through research, teaching, or professional practice, graduates of this program are equipped to make meaningful contributions to the world of music.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#151
US World and News Report
Class Profile
Diversity
International:
10%African American:
10%Asian American:
11%Hispanic American:
11%White American:
66%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
80
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 70
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$20,662 / year
FAQs
Admission to the Master of Musicology program is competitive. Prospective students are typically required to:
- Possess a Bachelor's degree in music or a related field, showcasing a strong foundation in music theory and history.
- Submit a portfolio of work.
- Provide letters of recommendation.
- Submit a statement of purpose that outlines their research interests and career ambitions.
For non-native English speakers, proficiency tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL are mandatory, with minimum scores of 6.5 on the IELTS and 80 on the TOEFL demonstrating the necessary language skills for academic success. Additionally, the application process involves a standard application fee and submission of various documents as specified by the university.
The curriculum of the Master of Musicology program is thoughtfully structured and incorporates essential courses, including:
- Music History
- Ethnomusicology
- Music Theory
Students can also choose from specialized electives that cater to their individual interests and career goals. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing students to develop their own research interests while benefiting from faculty mentorship.
The Master of Musicology program offers numerous research opportunities for students. They are encouraged to pursue independent projects or collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research in musicology. Students have access to world-class resources, including the university's extensive library and digital archives, which house an impressive collection of scores, recordings, and scholarly works. This comprehensive support enables students to engage in rigorous research that contributes to the field of musicology.
The program employs an interactive teaching approach that fosters collaborative learning experiences. Students engage in hands-on projects, workshops, and seminars, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. This emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills prepares students to appreciate the complexities of music across different cultures and time periods.
Graduates of the Master of Musicology program at the University of Cincinnati are well-equipped for various career pathways. Alumni have successfully pursued roles in:
- Academia
- Arts administration
- Music publishing
- Cultural organizations
Many graduates have achieved notable successes, contributing valuable research to the field and influencing contemporary music studies. The program's comprehensive career services further enhance employability, providing guidance in job searching, resume building, and interview preparation.
The program stands out due to several unique aspects, including:
- Prestigious Faculty: Students learn from esteemed faculty members who are leaders in the field of musicology and ethnomusicology.
- Diverse Learning Environment: The program fosters an inclusive atmosphere with a vibrant international student community.
- Extensive Research Resources: Access to cutting-edge facilities and a comprehensive library supports rigorous research.
- Career-Focused Opportunities: Internship programs and industry partnerships enhance career pathways.
- Strong Alumni Network: Graduates join a community of successful alumni making significant contributions in various sectors.
The Master of Musicology program emphasizes hands-on experiences through:
- Workshops
- Seminars
- Internships with local arts organizations, music festivals, and academic institutions
These experiences provide students with practical skills and enhance their resumes, significantly improving their employability upon graduation.
The University of Cincinnati’s Master of Musicology program offers robust career support through comprehensive career services. This includes:
- Guidance in job searching
- Resume building assistance
- Interview preparation
These resources are designed to help students navigate their career paths successfully and enhance their employability in the music industry.
Graduates from the Master of Musicology program have pursued successful careers in various fields, including:
- Academia, where many engage in teaching and research
- Arts administration, managing cultural organizations
- Music publishing, working with music-related publications
- Contributing research and influencing contemporary music studies
Alumni frequently highlight the transformative impact of the program on their professional lives, showcasing a supportive alumni network that continues to foster connections long after graduation.
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