Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology (M.A.)
Purpose
The Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology equips students to work in a diverse global society using the medium of music, including: foundational scholarship (history and theory), skill development (analysis and technology), performance of non-Western music, and practical application through field experience and independent research. The program at Liberty University fits well with the institution’s emphasis on intercultural studies and its stated aim to “contribute to a knowledge and understanding of other cultures." Music is a universal form of expression in which cultures of the world capture the essence of their worldview, and it is the system of memory in which cultural history and religious belief is recorded. The Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology provides musicians, social scientists, worship leaders, music educators, ministers of music and church leaders with the skills and training to understand any music culture, whether in North America or around the globe, to enable more strategic and effective communication, ministry, and research.
Program Learning Outcomes
The student will be able to:
- Synthesize Christian principles into the use of indigenous music in worship, discipleship and evangelism.
- Analyze non-Western systems of music through the application of ethnomusicological theory and method.
- Evaluate literature and research of the discipline for application through practical field experience and research.
Course Requirements
The Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology requires the completion of 36 hours of graduate coursework. Students complete their course of study through online courses.
Program Specific Admission Procedures
In addition to the General Admission Procedures outlined in this Catalog, applicants to our Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology program must have:
- An earned baccalaureate degree in music or a related field or its equivalent from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (e.g., SACSCOC, TRACS, ABHE, etc.).
- An undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale). Applicants who do not meet this requirement may be considered for enrollment in the program on a cautionary basis. The cautionary range will begin at a GPA of 2.50 through 2.99.
- Contact information for one recommendation.
- Statement-of-purpose essay.
- TOEFL Scores for students who speak English as a second language (score of 600 paper –based test; 250 computer-based test, 80 internet-based test).
Transfer Credit
Transfer students will be required to submit transcripts for evaluation as per the normal process established by the University. Students may transfer up to 18 hours of coursework from an accredited institution. In addition, transfer students will be required to perform an entrance interview and audition with the Coordinator of Ethnomusicology.
In order to be eligible for transfer, course work must have a minimum grade of B-, and must have been completed within the past 10 years. Credits from a prior degree on the same academic level earned through Liberty University are considered transfer credits.