Music Librarianship, MS/MA

Imagine a career where you bring music to life by connecting people with the world’s vast musical heritage. As a music librarian, you play a pivotal role in preserving and sharing the art of sound.

Sheet music on a music stand.

Bridge Sound and Scholarship

Manage, organize and make accessible collections of music scores, recordings and digital media. With an expert’s eye for detail and a passion for music, you’ll help researchers, students, and enthusiasts find inspiration and knowledge, bridging the past and future of music. Through this program, you'll gain first-hand experience of practical and theoretical matters to help you in the real-world setting of a functioning music library.

Points of Distinction

Music student in class.

UB’s Music Librarianship program offers a unique dual-degree pathway, allowing students to earn both a Master of Science in Information and Library Science and a Master of Arts in Music within an accelerated four-year timeline. This efficiency is unmatched by many programs, providing graduates with comprehensive expertise in both fields faster than the traditional five-year track.

A person sorting through a box of vinyl records.

Students gain hands-on experience through practica, directed study courses, and specialized projects within real-world music library settings. Additionally, UB offers student-centered learning experiences, such as active student groups, departmental seminars, and committee involvement, all of which foster professional networking and skill development.

American Library Association Logo.

The program is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), enhancing the value and recognition of the degree in the job market. With flexible delivery formats (online, on-campus, and hybrid) and options for part-time or full-time enrollment, students can tailor their learning experience to fit their personal and professional needs.

Program Summary

Academic credentials granted Master of Science/Master of Arts (MS/MA)
Credits required for completion 36
Time to completion 4 full-time semesters
Course delivery options On campus, online or hybrid
Application deadline Rolling admissions

Resources