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Ethnomusicology, B.A.

College of Arts & Sciences

Ethnomusicology encompasses studies of music and culture and integrates aspects of musicology and anthropology as well as music performance, history and theory. Interdisciplinary work, field study and explorations of music and culture have been key components of the UW Ethnomusicology program since its beginnings in 1963. Students in the program study music and musicians in various contexts and through various disciplinary lenses. The Bach­e­lor of Arts degree is intended for stu­dents whose pri­mary desire is for a well-rounded lib­eral arts edu­ca­tion in music.

Major category: Capacity-constrained

Area(s) of interest: Arts, Humanities and Design

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Degree requirements

Applicant type

Applicant type

First-year students can apply to the UW to begin autumn quarter or winter quarter (U.S. applicants only)

Read more about applying to the UW as a first-year student, including details for programs that provide high school students with college credit (like Running Start).

Ethnomusicology is a capacity-constrained major. An additional application is required after you enroll at the UW, and admission may be competitive. Visit the department website for more information.

An application for general admission to the UW is required for all transfer students. UW accepts general applications for Autumn and Winter with some select majors allowing applications in Spring. Review your intended major’s website for information about which quarters it is open for admission.

Preparation for the major is a factor in transfer admission.

  • Use the information below to help you prepare for this degree
  • Visit MyPlan to run a degree audit.
  • Use the UW Equivalency Guide to find out how courses taken at a Washington state community or technical college will transfer to the UW.
  • UW college and school graduation requirements

Department admission information

Please contact the department for details about the application process.

This major is capacity-constrained. Completion of prerequisites does not guarantee admission.
  • Minimum 3.0 grade in either MUSIC 251 or MUSIC 252
  • Minimum 2.0 grade in each MUSIC course taken
  • Minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA
  • Admission is based on the student’s transcript(s), musical interests, and statement of purpose, which should explain the student’s interest in ethnomusicology and potential areas of specialization.

Read more about applying to the UW as a transfer student.

Courses REQUIRED for admission:

  • MUSIC 251 A&H SSc – Music Cultures of the World: the Americas
  • MUSIC 252 A&H – Music Cultures of the World
  • Other approved coursework in Ethnomusicology

Entering transfer information:

Total undergraduates: 56
Total from Washington community colleges: 2

Career outcomes

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