So I’m considering heading back to grad school. Academic librarians are typically expected to have two Master’s degrees–one in Library Science and one in an area of specialization. Some fields like Science or Music practically require it since quite a bit of specialized knowledge is needed.

Since I work at a university, I get free tuition for taking a class or two per semester. When I think about taking classes for an actual degree, I have to look at what graduate degrees Butler offers and what interests me. Along with what I’d be qualified to take. Can’t exactly jump into a Master’s in Biology without a B.S. in the discipline. :-)

So I’m looking at a Master of Music degree. I’m thinking either in Music History or in Composition, and I’m leaning toward Composition. We have three great Composition professors at Butler and, since my B.Mus. was in Theory/Composition and I’m still composing and arranging music today, it seems like a logical choice and one I would enjoy. Plus, the Jordan College of Fine Arts at Butler University has an excellent reputation.

We’re talking 30 credit hours, including a thesis. For composition, this means a score and recorded performance of “an original work in a larger form.” Plus an oral defense, of course. Taking 1 or 2 classes a year (and maybe something in the summers), that will probably mean 2-5 years. That’s not so bad for pursuing a Master’s degree while working full time.

(Yes, I did go through all the coursework and Comprehensive Exams for my PhD in Education, but it’s been a few years now and I’m out of the program, ABD (all but dissertation). Chalk that up to experience. At least I’m still able to use all that I learned since I’m still working at a university.)

Current music: Halloween, by Mannheim Steamroller