Course Overview

The Musicology (MA/PhD) program at the University of Rochester is designed to provide students with advanced training in the study of music history, theory, and cultural contexts. Offered through the Eastman School of Music, one of the leading music institutions in the United States, the program emphasizes rigorous research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding music across various periods and genres.

Unique features include access to world-class faculty, a strong focus on both historical and contemporary musicology, and opportunities for specialization in areas such as early music, ethnomusicology, and popular music studies. Students benefit from a supportive academic environment that fosters original scholarship and prepares them for careers in academia, research, and cultural institutions.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are well-equipped for roles in higher education, research, and cultural preservation. Many pursue careers as university professors, music historians, or curators in museums and archives. The program also prepares students for roles in arts administration and public policy related to music and culture.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program features distinguished faculty members with expertise in various subfields of musicology. Notable scholars include those specializing in Renaissance music, 20th-century music, and global music traditions, though specific names are subject to change and can be verified through the university's official directory.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to the Sibley Music Library, one of the largest academic music libraries in the world, housing rare manuscripts and extensive research materials. The Eastman School of Music also offers state-of-the-art performance and research facilities. Partnerships with local and national cultural organizations provide additional opportunities for practical experience and networking.