MASTER OF ARTS
The master of arts degree program at Eastman is offered under the division of graduate research studies. The emphasis in this degree program is on research rather than on the applied study of an instrument or voice. The MA requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of study beyond the bachelor’s level, with at least two semesters of full-time study.
Majors are offered in:
- Composition
- Ethnomusicology
- Music Education
- Music Theory Pedagogy
- Musicology (a combined MA/PhD program)
- Theory (a combined MA/PhD program)
An Important Distinction Between MA and MM Degree Programs
Because the MA is a research degree, a strong emphasis is placed on writing and research skills. Full command of written English is assumed for students admitted to MA programs, and is required before students are permitted to begin a thesis or dissertation project.
Composition and music education may be undertaken within the division of graduate research studies (the MA as described in this section) or within the division of graduate professional studies (the MM). The two programs have differences in emphasis and course content. As part of the application process, the master of music requires an audition on an applied instrument or voice; the master of arts does not. It is especially important that composition and music education applicants decide whether they should apply to the MA or MM program, based on their backgrounds and goals.
Applied Instruction
Admission to the master of arts degree program does not involve an audition on an applied instrument or voice. However, all candidates for the MA degree are encouraged to avail themselves of the School’s applied music instruction. The area and extent of such study (if any) will be determined in consultation with the student’s adviser and the applied music faculty. Candidates in musicology and music theory are expected to cultivate a proficiency on a keyboard instrument, even if their principal instrument is not the piano, organ, or harpsichord.
