Musicology
The Master of Music in Musicology at the University of Miami is a two-year, full-time graduate program designed for students who wish to explore the historical, cultural, and theoretical dimensions of music in depth. This academically intensive program develops students’ skills in critical listening, archival research, analytical writing, and interdisciplinary scholarship. Through coursework spanning early music to contemporary practices, students examine how music shapes and is shaped by societal movements, technological innovations, and intellectual traditions. The program cultivates a deep understanding of both Western and global musical systems, emphasizing music’s role within broader cultural and historical contexts.
Students work closely with faculty who are leading researchers in areas such as ethnomusicology, historical musicology, popular music studies, and critical theory. The program includes opportunities for independent research, academic conference participation, and collaboration with performers and composers. With access to extensive library resources, archives, and a diverse musical community, students are encouraged to pursue original projects that bridge scholarship and creativity. The program fosters intellectual curiosity, scholarly rigor, and historical insight, preparing graduates for future research, teaching, and cultural leadership roles.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Musicology
- Degree Type: Master of Music
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: University of Miami, United States
- Field of Study: Musicology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Musicological Study
• Introduction to Musicological Research Methods
• Music History: Antiquity to Baroque
• Analytical Approaches to Musical Style
• Graduate Seminar in Music and Society
Semester 2 – Historical Contexts and Perspectives
• Music History: Classical to Romantic
• Topics in Ethnomusicology
• Music and Cultural Identity
• Elective (e.g., Performance Practice, Media Studies)
Semester 3 – Specialized Inquiry and Theory
• Music Since 1900
• Critical Theory in Musicology
• Independent Research or Directed Reading
• Graduate Colloquium in Music Research
Semester 4 – Thesis and Academic Development
• Master's Thesis in Musicology
• Seminar in Scholarly Writing and Presentation
• Music, Politics, and Globalization
• Final Oral Defense and Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for academic, archival, and cultural roles that demand advanced knowledge of music history and analysis. Many pursue doctoral studies in musicology, ethnomusicology, or interdisciplinary fields, while others work as music researchers, museum or archive specialists, journal editors, or educators at the college or conservatory level. Alumni also find roles in cultural policy, music criticism, and media organizations, where deep contextual understanding of music is essential. The program’s emphasis on independent research, scholarly communication, and cultural literacy enables graduates to contribute meaningfully to conversations about music’s role in society, education, and the arts. Their ability to analyze, interpret, and write about music with precision and insight is valued across many intellectual and professional environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in advanced music scholarship, critical analysis, and cultural inquiry. The University of Miami provides a collaborative academic setting supported by faculty mentors who are active contributors to international musicological discourse. The curriculum encourages students to develop and pursue original research while engaging with diverse methodologies and musical traditions. Students benefit from strong academic support, access to rich musical archives, and the vibrant cultural life of Miami. Whether preparing for doctoral studies or pursuing careers in cultural institutions, this program equips graduates with the scholarly tools, historical awareness, and critical voice needed to lead in the field of musicology.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
