Introduction to the MA in Ethnomusicology

The Master of Arts (MA) in Ethnomusicology is a one-year, full-time programme that explores music in its cultural, social, political, and ecological contexts. This programme asks how and why people make music and why that matters, now more than ever.

Brief Description

The MA in Ethnomusicology is designed for graduates in music and related fields who want to continue their education and build careers in teaching, research, curation/performance, and across various cultural sectors. The programme focuses on developing skills in fieldwork, including interviewing and observing musical communities, and producing written and creative outputs informed by disciplinary theory and ethical codes of practice.

Programme Content

The programme is delivered on campus and can be completed full-time in one year. Modules are taught during the autumn and spring semesters, with a dissertation submitted at the end of the summer semester. Students take a combination of core and elective modules, including:

• History of Ethnomusicology: Provides an overview of the history and theory of ethnomusicology since the 19th century.
• Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques: Introduces basic elements of fieldwork, including its ethical principles, participant observation, and interview techniques.
• Introduction to Ritual Studies: Equips students with knowledge of the emergence and development of ritual studies as an interdisciplinary discourse.
• Media Technologies for Performing Arts and Arts Research: Explores current media technologies used in the fields of performing arts, creative arts therapies, and arts research.
• Music Ethnography: Trains students in the epistemology, methodology, methods, and techniques for sustained ethnographic inquiry.
• Anthropology of Music: Explores current issues in ethnomusicology.
• World Music Survey: Examines specific music and movement cultures to gain awareness of diverse systems of embodiment and practice within their socio-cultural contexts.
• Critical Engagements with Irish Traditional Music: Examines manuscript, printed, audio, and visual sources of Irish traditional music.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant or appropriate subject. The university will shortlist and invite applicants to an interview with the course director. Applications from graduates with music and/or dance experience are especially welcome.

Fees

• EU: €7,995
• Non-EU: €18,000

Annual fees are billed by semester. Once registered, students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.

Graduate Profile

This course can lead to careers in:

• University and college lecturing in ethnomusicology
• Music archiving
• Music administration
• Music education
• Inter/transcultural consulting

Graduates of the programme are prepared for careers in university teaching, research, music education, music curation and archiving, ensemble facilitation, and inter/transcultural applied work with institutions and cultural organisations.

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Degree Overview:

The MA in Ethnomusicology is a one-year full-time taught MA course that considers music in its cultural, social and political contexts, asking questions how and why people make music and why that matters. The programme engages with the study of many musics, from world musics to Irish traditional music and popular musics, in both practical and academic modes. Course work emphasises the value of fieldwork and the generation of ethnographic accounts and practice-based outputs that are grounded in theory. This MA supports continued research and teaching at tertiary levels, as well as having application in a variety of other institutional settings.

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Objectives:

• To equip postgraduates with a professional qualification in the international discipline of Ethnomusicology;
• To develop a sound theoretical basis for undertaking music and movement research;
• To provide students with a thorough grounding in the field for teaching purposes;
• To give practical training in a variety of music and movement practices;
• To develop applied skills and generate impactful research that tackles social challenges in the 21st century

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Outline:

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Semester 1

• MU5101 History of Ethnomusicology
• MD6021 Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques
• MD6041 Introduction to Ritual Studies
• MU6061 Music Ethnography
• Options:
• MD 6051 Independent Study 1
• MD6071 Writing & the Documentation of Arts Practice 1

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Semester 2

• MU5022 Anthropology of Music
• MU3032 World Music Survey
• MD6081 Critical Engagements with Irish Traditional Music
• Options:
• MD 6051 Independent Study 1
• MD6071 Writing & the Documentation of Arts Practice 1

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Semester 3

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Careers:

The degree course is designed to meet the continuing education needs of graduates in music and in cognate and closely related disciplines. The course is also designed to cater to the occupational and vocational needs of the following professions:

• University and college lecturers in ethnomusicology
• Secondary teachers of music
• Professional music performers
• Music archivists
• Music administrators
• Music educators
• Media specialists

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Other:

• The program emphasizes the value of fieldwork and the generation of ethnographic accounts and practice-based outputs that are grounded in theory.
• The program supports continued research and teaching at tertiary levels, as well as having application in a variety of other institutional settings.

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EU - €7,270 Non- EU - €16,900

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: