Musicology
The Bachelor of Music in Musicology is a four year program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of music history, theory, and cultural context. The curriculum emphasizes musical analysis, historical research, ethnomusicology, and critical listening skills, enabling students to study the development of music across different cultures and eras. Through lectures, seminars, archival research, and performance observations, students gain a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of music, exploring the relationships between music, society, and culture.
Students develop expertise in musical research, historical analysis, ethnomusicology, and scholarly writing, strengthening critical thinking, analytical skills, research proficiency, and communication abilities. The program combines core courses in music history, theory, and analysis with electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as Western classical music, jazz studies, popular music, or global music traditions. By integrating rigorous academic study with applied research projects, graduates acquire the skills necessary to pursue careers in music scholarship, education, archival work, or continue into graduate studies in musicology, ethnomusicology, or related disciplines.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Musicology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Musicology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Musicology
- Introduction to Musicology
- Music Theory and Ear Training
- Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Core Courses in Music History and Cultural Contexts
Year 2 - Core Studies in Music History and Analysis
- Western Music History
- Ethnomusicology and World Music
- Analytical Techniques in Music
- Elective Courses in Jazz, Popular Music, or Composition Analysis
Year 3 - Advanced Topics & Applied Research
- Advanced Music Analysis and Research Methods
- Historical and Cultural Studies in Music
- Applied Projects in Archival and Field Research
- Elective Courses in Performance Practice, Music Technology, or Comparative Studies
Year 4 - Capstone & Professional Preparation
- Senior Research Project in Musicology
- Seminar in Professional Practice, Publishing, and Music Advocacy
- Internship / Placement in Libraries, Archives, or Cultural Institutions
- Career Preparation and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in music research, education, cultural institutions, and archival work. They often work as musicologists, music educators, archivists, curators, and research analysts, applying analytical and historical expertise to study, preserve, and interpret musical traditions. Many graduates continue their studies in ethnomusicology, music theory, performance studies, or arts management, leveraging their scholarly skills to conduct research, teach, or contribute to cultural preservation. The combination of analytical abilities, research experience, and professional preparation ensures graduates are fully equipped to succeed in academic, cultural, and creative environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive education in music history, theory, and cultural analysis that integrates research skills with practical knowledge. It emphasizes critical thinking, historical research, analytical proficiency, and career readiness, preparing students for careers in musicology, education, archival work, and cultural institutions. Students engage in seminars, research projects, internships, and field studies, gaining applied skills alongside academic study. The four year curriculum allows in depth exploration of musical traditions, analytical techniques, and professional practice, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to the study, preservation, and promotion of music in diverse contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
