M.A. in Ethnomusicology

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 is required with no individual band score below 6.0

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 71.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 100.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 50 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Ethnomusicology program at Kent State University offers a unique and enriching academic journey for students passionate about the study of music and culture. Ethnomusicology is a specialized field that combines music, anthropology, and cultural studies, providing graduates with a diverse skill set that can lead to various rewarding career paths.

1. Ethnomusicologist: Graduates of this program can pursue careers as ethnomusicologists, researching and documenting the music of different cultures. They may work in academia, museums, cultural preservation organizations, or as independent researchers.

2. Music Curator/Archivist: Ethnomusicologists can find opportunities as curators or archivists in music libraries, museums, and cultural institutions. They play a crucial role in preserving and cataloging musical artifacts and recordings.

3. Cultural Liaison: Ethnomusicologists with a deep understanding of cultural nuances can work as cultural liaisons or consultants, facilitating cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations, especially in industries like the arts, entertainment, and tourism.

4. Teaching and Academia: Many graduates choose to become educators, teaching music appreciation, world music, or ethnomusicology at the college or university level. A master's degree is often a stepping stone for those pursuing a Ph.D. and an academic career.

5. Music Journalism and Criticism: Ethnomusicologists can venture into music journalism or criticism, writing about global music trends, concerts, and cultural events for publications, websites, or broadcasting platforms.

6. Arts Administration: Graduates may also explore roles in arts administration, managing cultural events, music festivals, or arts organizations that focus on diverse musical experiences.

7. Music Therapy: With additional training, some ethnomusicologists may become music therapists, using music to promote healing and well-being in clinical settings, schools, or rehabilitation centers.

8. Global Business and Consultation: Ethnomusicologists possess a unique perspective on global cultures, which can be valuable in international business, marketing, and consultation roles, especially when companies seek to understand and respect diverse cultural practices.

9. Freelance Ethnomusicology Projects: Some graduates choose a freelance career, taking on projects that align with their interests and expertise, such as conducting fieldwork, producing documentaries, or curating music exhibitions.