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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:

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)

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

Department admission information

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

Entering transfer GPA (from WA community colleges):

3.75 – 4.00: <5
3.50 – 3.74: <5
3.25 – 3.49: <5
3.00 – 3.24: <5
2.75 – 2.99: <5
2.50 – 2.74: <5
2.49 and below: <5

Career outcomes

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