Musicology deals with the history of music from the beginnings of written records in the 9th century, through classical modernism to rock and pop. In addition to the historical perspective, Bachelor's students are introduced to the basics of music theory, music analysis and music aesthetics. The course serves the understanding and interpretation of music in the broadest sense. It provides insights into the various prerequisites and manifestations of music, its interrelationships with other arts and its role in society. The subject of study is everything that falls under the term music, in particular written text and music sources, images, musical instruments and sound recordings. Basel not only offers its students a sound musicological education, but also enables them to work on practice-oriented, educational projects such as the conception of exhibitions or the production of program booklets and CD booklets.

At the University of Basel, musicology is taught primarily as a historical discipline (from the Middle Ages to the present day, including rock, pop and jazz), supplemented by other areas of musicology. Special attention is paid, for example, to aesthetic issues and the close connection between cultural studies and philological aspects of music.

It is also important for students to gain an insight into professional musicology practice during their studies and to be able to work on relevant projects. This is possible thanks to the dense network of music-related institutions in Basel with which the subject area of Musicology cooperates. The proximity to the Paul Sacher Foundation is of central importance for modern music history, as is the neighboring Schola Cantorum Basiliensis and the Music Museum for all questions of historically informed performance practice. In combination with the rich concert and theater life of the music city of Basel, these are ideal conditions for a fruitful interaction between research, teaching and artistic and academic professional practice.

Basic knowledge of music theory (including harmony) and the ability to deal with a musical text are required for the Bachelor's degree course. Musical experience, for example in the form of practical musical training, is also helpful. Individual requirements are discussed at the start of the course. Missing basics can be made up in supplementary courses. It should also be noted that knowledge of modern foreign languages, particularly English, but also French and Italian and, depending on the focus of interest, other languages (e.g. Latin for early music) is required for the study of specialist literature and sources. Attendance of appropriate courses, such as those offered at the Language Center of the University of Basel and the individual subjects of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, can be credited in the complementary area.