Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-25

Program overview

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Music and Culture at Carleton University offers students a unique opportunity to delve into the intricate relationship between music and culture. This program encourages exploration through various theoretical frameworks, including sociology, critical theory, feminism, post-colonialism, cultural studies, and ethnomusicology. Students will engage with diverse music practices, ranging from classical to popular and non-Western music, fostering a comprehensive understanding of music as a cultural phenomenon.

Program Structure

The Master of Arts in Music and Culture is designed to be completed in 2 years. The program includes:

  • Entry Terms: Fall
  • Pathway Options: Coursework, Research Essay, Thesis
  • Experiential Learning: Practicums
  • Collaborative Specializations available in Accessibility, African Studies, and Digital Humanities

Students will benefit from a rich academic environment, with access to numerous music collections and cultural activities in Ottawa, enhancing their learning experience.

Featured Experiences

  • Practicum placements in various settings around Ottawa, including:
    • Library and Archives Canada
    • The Encyclopedia of Music in Canada
    • The CBC
    • ChamberFest
    • Hummingbird Music/Pebble Studios
  • Access to year-round cultural activities and festivals relevant to the program, such as the National Arts Centre and the Canadian Museum of History.
  • Engagement with Ottawa's diverse immigrant communities and diplomatic representatives, providing a stimulating context for studying various musical cultures.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Music and Culture can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

  • Musicologist: Conduct research and analysis on music history, theory, and cultural significance.
  • Ethnomusicologist: Study music in its cultural context, focusing on the social and cultural aspects of music-making.
  • Arts Administrator: Manage arts organizations, including music festivals, cultural institutions, and community arts programs.
  • Music Educator: Teach music and cultural studies at various educational levels, from primary schools to universities.
  • Music Critic: Write reviews and critiques of music performances, albums, and cultural events for publications and media outlets.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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