Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master of Music in Ethnomusicology

The Master of Music (M.M.) in ethnomusicology at Bowling Green State University is a graduate program that draws students from across the United States and around the world. The program is internationally recognized for its historical and ongoing contributions to ethnomusicology and for shaping the discipline through scholarship, teaching, and professional leadership.

Program Overview

The program offers rigorous scholarly training and emphasizes:

• The study of music in its cultural, social, and historical contexts
• Ethnographic research methods
• Engagement with global musical traditions
• Critical listening, music analysis, and interdisciplinary inquiry

In today's academic and cultural landscape, where cross-cultural understanding, applied research, and public-facing scholarship are increasingly valued, the graduate program prepares students for meaningful work in research, education, and cultural institutions. Graduates are equipped with advanced analytical, writing, and research skills, as well as cultural sensitivity and an interdisciplinary perspective.

Program Structure

The program provides:

• Supportive scholarly mentorship: Work closely with faculty who are active researchers, writers, and presenters. Receive individualized guidance as you develop research projects, conference papers, and theses within a collaborative academic community.
• Strong national and international connections: BGSU's historic presence in the field of ethnomusicology connects students to leading scholars, guest lectures, and professional networks.
• Research-driven curriculum: Coursework emphasizes ethnographic methods, critical theory, and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of music. You are encouraged to pursue research aligned with your cultural, regional, or thematic interests while building transferable skills in writing, analysis, and qualitative inquiry.
• Generous funding opportunities: Graduate assistantships and scholarships provide financial assistance and valuable professional experience.
• Accredited academic environment: The M.M. in ethnomusicology is housed in BGSU's College of Musical Arts, which offers robust academic resources and an interdisciplinary setting that supports advanced research and graduate study.

Career Opportunities

The Master of Music in ethnomusicology prepares students for a wide range of professional roles in scholarship, education, and cultural organizations, including:

• University or college teaching and research roles
• Cultural and arts organizations
• Public and applied scholarship
• Academic and professional research support

Career Paths

Possible career paths include:

• Ethnomusicologist or music researcher
• Museum or archive professional
• Cultural program coordinator
• Arts administrator or nonprofit staff member
• Professor in ethnomusicology, musicology, or related fields (with Ph.D.)

Curriculum

The ethnomusicology master's program provides rigorous training that develops scholarly depth, methodological competence, and professional readiness. Students gain advanced skills in:

• Ethnographic and qualitative research methods
• Music analysis within cultural and social contexts
• Critical theory and interdisciplinary scholarship
• Academic writing and research design
• Global and cross-cultural musical traditions

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Students engage in hands-on research through fieldwork, archival study, and applied projects aligned with their academic interests. Opportunities include participating in conferences, guest lectures, and interdisciplinary collaboration and involvement in research initiatives within the College of Musical Arts and related academic units.

Required Courses

Sample courses include:

• Critical Approaches to Ethnomusicology
• Research Methods in Ethnomusicology
• Proseminar in World Music
• World Music Ensemble
• Afro-Caribbean Ensemble

Applying and Funding

Applicants to the Master of Music in ethnomusicology must meet the general graduate admission requirements of the University as well as program-specific criteria established by the College of Musical Arts. Students applying for graduate assistantships may be required to participate in an interview. Graduate assistantships provide valuable professional experience while offering tuition remission and a stipend.

Accreditation

The College of Musical Arts at Bowling Green State University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Bowling Green State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.