Master Degrees in Music
Elevate your artistry.
Deepen your scholarship.
Explore new frontiers in sound.
At the University at Buffalo, you’ll find dynamic master’s programs designed to help you grow as an artist, researcher or educator. Whether you’re a composer, performer, theorist, historian or future teacher, UB gives you a flexible, forward-looking path.
Our Master Degrees:
Reimagine what music can be.
Push creative boundaries with bold thinking, critical experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Work with leading faculty, explore experimental sound and present new works with UB ensembles.
Why choose this program?
- Focus on new music, technology and experimentation
- Compose for groups like the Slee Sinfonietta and UB Symphony
- Weekly one-on-one mentorship
- Collaborate across theory, musicology, philosophy and the arts
- Present your work at Slee Hall and the June in Buffalo festival
Discover the past. Shape your future.
Dive deep into musicology, preparing for doctoral study, teaching, or work in archives, publishing or public scholarship. UB’s program offers rigorous seminars, faculty mentorship and hands-on research.
Why UB for Music History?
- In-depth seminars in history and theory
- Personalized faculty mentorship
- Capstone portfolio and exam
- Exclusive guest lectures through the Baird Lecture Series
- Interdisciplinary Masters Colloquium
Optional Dual Degree:
Pair your MA with an MS in Information and Library Science—one of only seven programs in the U.S. recognized by the Music Library Association.
Analyze, explore and lead in the world of music theory.
Build a strong foundation in analysis, history and research. Ideal for those heading toward doctoral study or academic careers.
Why UB for Music Theory?
- Courses in Schenkerian analysis, set theory, intertextuality and more
- Collaborative research and performance opportunities
- Access to rare collections, jazz archives and modern scores
- Present at the Baird Lecture Series
Optional Dual Degree:
Combine with an MS in Information and Library Science for advanced music librarianship.
Double your expertise. Multiply your career options.
Earn both an MA in Music History or Music Theory and an MS in Information and Library Science. UB’s nationally recognized track opens doors to leadership in libraries, archives, research and digital media.
Why choose UB for the dual degree?
- Nationally respected—one of just seven in the country recognized by the Music Library Association
- UB grads hold top positions at the University of Michigan, Belmont, Oberlin, Brown, New York Public Library, Curtis Institute and more
- Finish in about five semesters plus a summer (with up to six shared credits)
- Build a unique, high-demand skillset across music and information science
Unleash your full artistic potential.
Work closely with faculty in your chosen instrument or voice, perform in state-of-the-art venues and gain the skills to succeed as a professional musician.
Why UB for Performance?
- Weekly private lessons with expert faculty
- Recitals and chamber music
- Opportunities to perform at June in Buffalo and throughout Buffalo’s vibrant music scene
- Access to Lippes Concert Hall and Slee Hall
(Combined Bachelor’s + Master’s Program)
Inspire the next generation.
UB’s innovative 5-year program lets you earn your undergraduate and graduate degrees plus New York State certification.
Program Highlights:
- Graduate with Initial and Professional Certification
- Real-world classroom experience through student teaching
- Study with faculty who are performers, researchers and experienced educators
- Combine musical mastery with top teaching practices
Start here:
Begin your journey with the undergraduate MusB in Performance, then transition into the graduate Music Education track.
Shape your future in music at UB.
Contact us to talk about how a master’s degree in music can fit your goals.
