the master of arts in music degree is a graduate research degree which culminates with a written thesis and a public presentation (lecture or lecture/recital). possible areas of focus for the thesis include (but are not limited to) music history, music theory, ethnomusicology, historical performance practice, music technology, and interdisciplinary subjects relating music with other fields. the program is intended for students with a strong interest in scholarly research and should not be considered a substitute for a master of music in performance degree. the benefits include a stronger preparation for graduate studies after western and a more diverse portfolio for future teaching positions. the m.a. in music degree is primarily intended as part of a 5 year accelerated degree program combined with a bachelor of music degree, but it may be completed as a stand-alone 2 year graduate degree.