Ethnomusicology

Why Ethnomusicology @ Memorial?

The MA and PhD programs in Ethnomusicology at Memorial University offer unique opportunities for individuals who are interested in researching music as a cultural practice. Course work in the programs provide instruction on contemporary approaches to theory and method in ethnomusicology, as well as deep engagements with ethnographic and historical studies of music and culture. Graduate study in Ethnomusicology at Memorial University is interdisciplinary, with courses offered through both the School of Music and the Department of Folklore. Our program features media production courses in radio and video. The programs are housed at the Research Centre for the Study of Music, Media, and Place (MMaP), which boasts a Sundanese gamelan degung. MMaP draws world-renowned scholars through its Music & Culture Lecture Series, scholar-in-residence program, and international conferences. Many students enjoy active participation in the vibrant St. John's traditional music scene.

Description of programs

• MA " The MA program offers core research training with an emphasis on the development of skills in ethnographic fieldwork. In addition to courses that ensure foundational breadth of knowledge, students undertake independent research that is original in design but manageable in scope.

• PhD " The PhD program is designed to train individuals who envisage a career in scholarship, either as professors in the academy or as cultural animators of various types in the public sector. The program centres on in-depth explorations of key intellectual issues and theoretical directions in the study of music as a cultural practice. Coursework and comprehensive examination preparation ensure a strong knowledge base for the undertaking of a major independent research initiative.

Contact a faculty supervisor

Graduate applicants interested in research-based programs are strongly encouraged to connect with a faculty supervisor at the time of application. Visit the Ethnomusicology program website for a list of faculty members, their research interests, and contact information. You may also use the Yaffle search application to find a supervisor you may wish to work with.

The School of Graduate Studies offers advice on how to search for and contact potential supervisors. Need more help? Try attending one of our webinars and information sessions for prospective graduate students.

• MASF (course work): Bachelor’s degree (minimum second class) in a relevant area of study OR some combination of educational, personal, professional, and cultural experience aligned with the program and proposed area for the major project.
  
  
• MASF (thesis): Bachelor’s degree (minimum second class) in a relevant area of study OR some combination of educational, personal, professional, and cultural experience aligned with the program and proposed area for the major project.
  
  
• PhD: Master’s degree in a relevant area of study and an excellent academic record OR 12 months in a Master’s program and demonstration of exceptional ability to pursue research at the doctoral level OR Bachelor’s degree with honours (or equivalent) and 5 years of related full-time professional experience OR some combination of educational, personal, professional, and cultural experience aligned with the program and proposed research area (with permission).

• The application must be fully and accurately completed. Please note the online application only supports the English language.
• Ensure your full legal name (including previous last name if applicable) is listed in the correct order, as it appears on your passport or other government-issued ID. Please ensure your date of birth is entered accurately in the format listed.
• Under “Personal Information” and “Canadian Immigration Status”, select "Student Visa" if your citizenship is not Canadian and you require a study permit to legally study in Canada. Select "Permanent Resident" if your citizenship is not Canadian and you have immigrated to Canada.
• Please carefully review the definitions of full-time and part-time status before selecting this under “Student Status”. Graduate student status is not determined by the number of courses one registers for.
• If you have previously applied to or enrolled in Memorial University, please ensure you enter your MUN student number under “Program Information”. You can find this in Self-Service (if you were previously a student) or on a decision letter emailed to you (if you previously applied). This will ensure your application is processed quickly and accurately.
• Please ensure you choose the right graduate program under “Program Information”. This normally cannot be changed after you submit your application online.
• Please note the correct route (e.g., thesis, course, internship) for your program of interest under “Program Information”. Refer to the Graduate Programs and Routes document for details. Incorrect routes may lead to delays in the admission process. You can only be considered for a route available for your graduate program of interest.
• If you are applying for a research program (e.g., one that requires a thesis), under “Program Information” please note the names of up to two faculty members you may be interested in working with. Please visit our website for more information on how to find potential supervisors.
• If you are applying for a research program (e.g., one that requires a thesis), please note the research area or focus you are interested in for your graduate thesis (or instrument for Master of Music applicants).
• Under “Program Information” and “Self-declared Average”, please enter in number form your overall average from your most recent undergraduate (bachelor’s) program as it appears on your university transcript (e.g., 80%, 3.0, 16, etc.). In the following field, please select the country in which your most recent undergraduate (bachelor’s) program was completed.
• Ensure you provide names and email addresses for all referees. Please ensure you contact your referees before applying to confirm their availability and willingness to write a reference letter on your behalf. Please also ensure the email address you enter is correct and one actively used by your referee.
• Ensure that the “Statement of Interest” section is properly completed, as most academic units place considerable emphasis on this section. You’ll find a video tutorial on this at the bottom of this page.
• Please complete the “Special Circumstances” section if there are any exceptional circumstances that may have had an impact on your past academic records.