Academic Qualifications and Selection Procedures
Because of the trans-disciplinary nature of this program, students must possess a serious interest in the field of popular music. Thus, in addition to meeting the admission requirements set by Western's School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, we require applicants to demonstrate knowledge of popular music and the ability to manage the curriculum's diverse requirements. We suggest competence in one of the following areas: music history (including artists, genres, and repertoires); music technology; discography; music business; theory; performance; criticism. A questionnaire, as well as a statement for outlining the student's experience with and motivation for studying popular music, will help the admissions committee in determining preparedness for the program. Applicants should specify the particular aspect of popular music they wish to research. For information on how to apply to the program, please visit the MA Popular Music & Culture Application Procedure page.
English Proficiency
Students born outside Canada whose first language is not English also must provide evidence of achieving a score of at least 107 (Internet-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a score of 8.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), taken within the last 2 years, as detailed in the application procedure.