The goal of the program is to develop individuals who can think independently, research, analyze and weigh ideas from which they can draw logical conclusions. This program is suited to students who have a serious interest in how music communicates meaning, both in terms of how it is constructed, and also how it has been and continues to be shaped by external forces. Students will learn how to find excellent sources of information in the library and elsewhere, make informed judgments as to the reliability and usefulness of this information, and convey their own ideas in a clear and compelling way. These skills are applicable to a wide number of careers in music such as music criticism, library science, positions in publishing, broadcasting, arts administration and recording industries and also in other areas, given the widespread emphasis in today's job market on information and information technology. This program also prepares students for graduate studies in Musicology, Ethnomusicology and Music Theory, leading to careers in university teaching.

There are three ways that a student who chooses the History, Culture & Theory program may proceed: the choice of which path to follow will depend in the area of music scholarship in which the student is most interested.

Students are able to choose from any of the following options:

• History, Culture & Theory (General Option)
• History, Culture & Theory, with a Specialization in History & Culture
• History, Culture & Theory, with a Specialization in Theory