Arizona State University

Music (Ethnomusicology), MA

The Master of Arts in Music with a specialization in Ethnomusicology offers students a comprehensive exploration of global musical traditions, emphasizing both academic research and practical understanding. The program focuses on developing students' analytical, research, and interpretive skills related to diverse musical cultures, enabling them to critically examine the social, cultural, and historical contexts of music within various communities. Students engage in coursework that covers ethnographic methods, music theory, and cultural studies, often combining fieldwork with scholarly analysis to deepen their understanding of the roles music plays in different societies. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in advanced research projects, fieldwork assignments, and collaborative learning experiences. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, cultural preservation, arts organizations, or related fields where knowledge of ethnomusicology is valuable. Emphasizing hands-on research and cultural engagement, the program aims to cultivate ethnomusicologists who can contribute to the understanding and appreciation of musical diversity worldwide, while fostering critical thinking regarding issues of cultural identity and musical expression.