Our program offers comprehensive training in the study of vernacular culture with concentrations in Folklore or Ethnomusicology. We use ethnographic and historical methods and approaches to closely examine the traditional arts and contemporary thoughts of the world’s communities. Our research and coursework consider the many ways in which tradition intersects with the domains of popular culture, politics, commerce, and public policy.

We offer M.A. and Ph.D. degrees as well as a public practice concentration. You may also choose to pursue a dual master’s degree in conjunction with other departments and schools, such as Arts Administration and Library and Information Sciences.

We also offer Ph.D. minors in Folklore and/or Ethnomusicology to graduate students in other graduate degree programs at Indiana University, including a cognate degree for students in the Jacobs School of Music.

Acceptance into the Ph.D. program requires an M.A. in folklore, ethnomusicology, or any number of related fields, such as history, English, anthropology, or others.