William A. Howland (1 May 1871 – 3 May 1945) was an American operatic bass, voice teacher, composer, conductor and university administrator. He was the head of the music department at the University of Michigan from 1900-1914. In 1914 he co-founded the Detroit Institute of Musical Arts; serving as the school's vice-president and head of the vocal department until his death 31 years later.