Musicology and Music Theory (MA)
Pursue the study of music as a scholarly subject in our Musicology and Music Theory Master of Arts graduate programs.
In our thesis-based master’s programs, you will take graduate courses and seminars, and conduct research culminating in an original thesis. The thesis must demonstrate an advanced ability to design a research project, apply appropriate methodologies, and communicate the findings of the project through academic writing.
The Master of Arts programs in Musicology and Music Theory provide the necessary training to move into professional work in academic contexts, although students regularly go on to pursue a doctoral degree in order to teach at a university level.
While the Master of Arts programs are intended to lead to a career in research or academic teaching, they have the potential to lead to a variety of music-related careers.
The programs can be completed in two years.Quick Facts
Music Meet Your Faculty
Why Study Musicology and Music Theory at the University of Regina?
Our teacher-student ratio is 1:1, which allows us to create a personalized education experience. Courses can be created that match the specific goals and intentions for each student’s degree.
Our graduate students undertake intensive study, learn practical applications for their research, and explore rigorous academic content.
We value and support a learning environment with the services required for high-quality teaching, research and learning that strengthens the academic successes of our students.Facilities
Graduate students have access to music theory software, performance spaces, special performance instruments, and a graduate student office space.
The Dr. John Archer Library contains listening facilities, recordings, microfilms, and a broad spectrum of scores, collected works and music texts.
Graduate students also have access to the full range of the faculty’s facilities.Research and teaching opportunities
Research assistantships may be offered through the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research or through individual scholars at the university. Teaching assistantships may also be available to graduate students.Expert professors
All of the professors in the Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance are recognized scholars, artists and professionals in their fields, including Music Theory, Music Performance, Music Composition, Music Conducting, Media Studies, Interactive Media and Performance, Film Studies, Indigenous Studies, Creative Technologies, Communication Studies, Curatorial Studies, National and International Cinemas, Popular Culture, Film Production, Theatre, and Visual Arts.Musicology and Music Theory Frequently Asked Questions
Students entering the Musicology or Music Theory Master of Arts programs must hold a music degree comparable to the Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts (Music) offered by the University of Regina. Applicants are to submit samples of their scholarly writing, drawing from senior research projects.
All applicants are required to:
- submit a Letter of Intent
- complete a theory placement exam
- submit a writing sample (a recent, upper-level English essay, minimum 1500 words)
All applicants may be requested to participate in an online video interview with Music faculty members as part of the application process.
Music Theory applicants must submit a music analysis paper that demonstrates proficiency in the application of analytical principles to harmonic, melodic, formal, and/or rhythmic features of a piece.
Musicology and Music Theory students must demonstrate language facility in French or German by means of an exam which carries no credit hours, or by successful completion of an approved course. This requirement must be successfully completed before beginning thesis work.
For more information about admission requirements, please refer to the graduate calendar.MU 807 Music of the Romantic Era
Selected topics in the history of the music of the romantic era.
MU 809 Selected Topics in Musicology
Study of selected topics in musicology.
MU 811 Analysis of Music Written Since 1900
Emphasis on contemporary music. Detailed study and analysis of selected works in chamber, symphonic, choral and solo literature.
MU 816 History of Music Theory
A survey of theoretical writings from ancient times to the present.
MU 817 Analysis
Techniques of analysis covering a variety of approaches and musical styles.
MU 818 Selected Topics in Music Theory
Research problems and topics related to the candidate's needs and interests.
Yes! Once you have been accepted as a fully-qualified graduate student with no conditions or holds on your admission, then you are eligible to apply for our scholarships, awards, graduate teaching assistant positions, or research assistantships.
All Graduate Funding Opportunities
Visit our Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research website to learn about all graduate funding opportunities including:
- National Scholarships (including Tri Council funding)
- Awards to Study Abroad
- FGSR Funding/Special Awards
- Funding for Indigenous Students
- Funding for International Students
- Other Awards and Scholarships
- External Scholarship Opportunities
- External Student and Faculty Awards
- Music Ensembles
- Doctoral Research Showcase
- Humanities Research Institute events, seminars and conferences
- Media, Arts, and Performance Presentation Series
- Art for Lunch
- 5th Parallel Gallery activities
- Living Skies Student Film Festival
- Theatre Productions
- Living Heritage Speaking Series
- Conferences and symposia on contemporary themes organized by faculty
What Can You Do With a Musicology or Music Theory Degree?
- University professor
- University instructor
- Arts administrator
- Education artist
- Music historian
- Music theorist