Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Music program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers two concentrations: historical musicology and music theory. Students develop proficiency in research methodologies and critical analysis, enabling them to engage with a diverse range of musical topics. The program fosters interdisciplinary connections and emphasizes close mentorship and individualized instruction. Graduates pursue careers in academia, music education, performance, journalism, librarianship, and entrepreneurship.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
The Master of Arts in Music program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison cultivates students' analytical, research, and writing skills, fostering their expertise in music history and theory. The curriculum equips graduates to pursue careers as scholars, educators, performers, and professionals in the field of music. Graduates will possess a deep understanding of musical concepts, historical contexts, and analytical approaches.
Description:
The M.A. in Music program offers two concentrations: historical musicology and music theory. Students develop proficiency in research methodologies and critical analysis, enabling them to engage with a diverse range of musical topics. The program fosters interdisciplinary connections, encouraging students to explore music within broader cultural, historical, and intellectual frameworks.
Outline:
Historical Musicology Concentration
Course Schedule:
- Survey courses in music history (e.g., Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century)
- Musicology seminars
- Ethnomusicology courses
- Research methods in music
Individual Modules
- German language proficiency
Music Theory Concentration
Course Schedule:
- Music theory courses (e.g., Schenkerian Analysis, Post-Tonal Analysis, Current Issues in Musical Thought)
- Musicology and/or literature courses (e.g., History of Opera, Proseminar in Ethnomusicology)
- Research methods in music
Individual Modules:
- Thesis
Assessment:
Students are evaluated through:
- Coursework assignments and exams
- Seminar presentations and papers
- Comprehensive examinations
- Thesis (for Music Theory concentration)
Teaching:
The program emphasizes close mentorship and individualized instruction. Students work with renowned faculty members who are active researchers and performers. Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- One-on-one supervision
- Group discussions
- Performance opportunities
Careers:
Graduates of the M.A. in Music program pursue careers in:
- Academia (e.g., teaching, research)
- Music education (e.g., K-12 teaching, higher education)
- Music performance (e.g., orchestras, ensembles, soloists)
- Music journalism and criticism
- Music librarianship and archival research
- Music technology and entrepreneurship
Entry Requirements:
The Mead Witter School of Music has additional requirements.
- Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in music or equivalent foundational course work as required by each area of study.
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, calculated on the last 60 credit hours) is necessary for full admission.
- M.A. applicants are required to submit Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores and samples of research writing.
- The M.A. program involves substantial academic work and requires excellent reading, writing, and speaking skills. Therefore, all international students are required to submit a TOEFL score.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- The Historical Musicology curricular path requires German.
