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Master of Arts Programs

Master of Arts Program in Music Industry at West Virginia University provides students with the up-to-date, relevant knowledge and skills needed to productively operate, lead, and successfully manage the dynamic changes in the music industry. At the conclusion of the program, students will be able to creatively participate in all the music industry’s sectors as national and international leaders, and will be prepared to make major professional contributions in the field of the music industry. 


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Master of Arts in Musicology

Students completing the Master’s Program in Musicology develop a broad understanding of the primary methods used in musicological and ethnomusicological research. Courses and seminars explore a wide range of musical repertories and scholarly debates, and the curriculum encourages students to engage meaningfully with the field through pedagogical training and focused research. The theses of recent graduates have explored the construction of female identity through sheet music collection in the post-bellum U.S. South, the musical subcultures of 20th-century Greek and Italian immigrants to western Pennsylvania, and early twentieth-century violin pedagogy and African American racial uplift. Recent graduates have entered leading North American doctoral programs or have found employment in occupations drawing heavily upon the expertise and skills developed through our degree program.


M.A in Musicology Admission Process

Admission to the Master of Arts in Musicology requires academic transcripts, two letters of reference from academic faculty, a personal statement, and a representative sample of academic writing (minimum of 10 pages in length).



Master of Arts in Music Theory

The MA in Music Theory is intended for students who desire advanced training in the analysis of Western art music and preparation for teaching music theory in either a high school or college setting. This degree can also prepare students for doctoral work in either academic or applied areas, depending upon the electives chosen. All students in this program will have the opportunity to independently teach a class from the core curriculum. It is required that those considering this degree have above average keyboard skills; specifically the student should be able to play a Bach chorale.

Applicants for Music Theory must submit a sample of analytical writing about a musical topic of their choice. This should be e-mailed to Dr. Matthew Heap at matthew.heap@mail.wvu.edu