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Jazz History & Research

M.A. Program Description

Founded in 1997, this unique program prepares people to do research, publishing and teaching; our students rely on the renowned Institute of Jazz Studies (IJS), the largest public access jazz library in the world. While there are many bachelor’s and master’s degrees elsewhere in jazz performance, and a few in composition and pedagogy, this program focuses on the history, theory, and cultural contexts of jazz.

General Information

Degree Offered: M.A.
Part Time Study Available

Questions?

Rachel Mundy, Ph.D., Graduate Program Director

110 Warren St.

Bradley Hall | Room 254

Phone: 973-353-1416


Email: rachel.mundy@rutgers.edu

Website: Jazz History & Research

Degree Credit Requirements

M.A. -  36 credits

Career Opportunities 

Career Opportunities 

Our graduates have entered Ph.D. programs in Music History and Music Theory; have taught at various community colleges; have worked as archivists in both jazz and classical music; and have pursued related degrees in Library Science, American Studies, etc.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

All transcripts – TOEFL – 3 Letters of Recommendation – Sample of academic or professional writing - Personal Statement. 

The Personal Statement is not optional. This is where you tell us who you are, what you’ve been doing lately, and why you want to join our program. In addition, all applicants will need to submit the following to Dr. Martin via email: one research or analysis paper on any topic as a writing sample. An undergraduate paper is fine, and it does not even have to be about music—the point is to show that you write well in English.

Note that a background in music is no longer required. Students will learn to read and write music and understand basic music theory in the course of the degree program.

Application Deadline is on a rolling basis. 
 

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