Dec 08, 2024  
University of Alberta Calendar 2023-2024 
    
University of Alberta Calendar 2023-2024 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Graduate Programs in Music


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Department of Music
3-82 Fine Arts
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9
Phone: (780) 492-3263
Fax: (780) 492-9246
E-mail: musicgs@ualberta.ca
www.music.ualberta.ca

General Information


The Department of Music offers programs leading to the degrees of Master of Arts, Master of Music, Doctor of Music, and Doctor of Philosophy. The MA and PhD include work in the areas of Musicology, Music Theory, Ethnomusicology, Popular Music, and interdisciplinary music studies. The MMus program includes specializations in Performance (keyboard instruments, piano pedagogy, orchestral instruments, wind band conducting, and voice), Choral Conducting, and Composition. The DMus program is offered in piano and organ performance, in choral conducting, and in composition, and is considered on an individual basis for applicants in other performance areas.

Entrance Requirements


For the MA program the Department’s minimum admission requirements are a Bachelor’s degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.

For the MMus program the Department’s minimum admission requirements are a BMus degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework. An audition, preferably in person, is required as part of the admission procedure for applicants to the MMus in Performance and in Choral Conducting. A portfolio of compositions (together with recordings if possible) is required for applicants to the MMus in Composition.

For the DMus program the Department’s minimum admission requirements are an MMus degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution, as well as evidence of outstanding ability and accomplishment in the area of concentration. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework. An audition, preferably in person, is required as part of the admission procedure for applicants to the DMus in Performance and in Choral Conducting.

For the PhD program the Department’s minimum admission requirements are an MA or MMus degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution, as well as evidence of outstanding ability and accomplishment in the area of concentration. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.

Where applicable, applicants must provide proof of English Language Proficiency (refer to English Language Requirement ). Any one of the following is acceptable:

  • a minimum TOEFL score of 100 (internet-based) with at least 21 on each of the individual skill areas
  • a minimum overall band score of 7.0 on the IELTS with a minimum of 6.5 on each band
  • an equivalent score on a recognized English language examination.

Applicants must also submit the following

  • a current Curriculum Vitae
  • a Statement of Interest – one or two pages summarizing their background in music and outlining future career goals
  • a brief summary of personal achievements outside of music (involvement in student government and the university community, involvement in professional societies and volunteerism)
  • three letters of reference. Referees should be knowledgeable about the applicant’s academic and research potential and capabilities.

Applicants to the MA and the PhD must submit two sample academic papers.

Applicants to the MMus or DMus in performance or choral conducting must submit an Application for Audition. Please consult the Auditions page on the Department of Music website for dates and specific repertoire guidelines. Choral conducting applicants must also submit a list of repertoire conducted over the last five years. DMus Performance applicants must provide a list of repertoire performed and learned over the past five years.

Applicants to the MMus or DMus in composition must submit an electronic portfolio with at least three works, including relevant scores in PDF format, as well as sound files and any other related media files. Links to audio/video streaming sites are acceptable.

For DMus applicants, an interview will be part of the selection process.

Application Deadlines


To receive full consideration for funding and to be assured of an audition date, applications must be received by December 1. For further information email queries to musicgs@ualberta.ca.

If required, audition application forms must be received by December 1. If a video file/link is being submitted in lieu of an in-person audition, the video file/link must be received no later than December 15.

Academic Standing Requirement


The Department of Music requires its graduate students to maintain an average GPA of at least 3.3 in the main area of concentration during each year of study.

Financial Assistance


Graduate assistantships are available within the Department; the deadline for application for graduate assistantships is outlined on the department’s website, address above.

Graduate Courses


Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings , under the subject heading Music (MUSIC).

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