Music, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires the satisfactory completion of a significant body of coursework that, in the student's and Graduate Advisor's judgement, prepares the student for the preliminary examination that leads to admission to candidacy, as well as certain specific courses required in each area of specialization. A grade of B- or better is required in all courses used to fulfill requirements for the degree. A Principal Advisor for the dissertation will be chosen by the student and the academic advisor; the Principal Advisor and the student will then nominate the remaining members of the dissertation committee. The student must submit a detailed Prospectus of the dissertation to the members of the dissertation committee and the Graduate Director, and must be admitted to candidacy prior to the approval of the dissertation committee by the Graduate School. The dissertation must be successfully defended before the entire dissertation committee. The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires a Written Dissertation.

Advance to Candidacy: In addition to completing the course requirements below, students must complete a pre-candidacy portfolio. The portfolio should include a first year paper, second year paper, public lecture, and teaching demonstrations. Students must also pass a preliminary examination, successfully defend the dissertation prospectus, and obtain IRB approval in order to advance to candidacy. 

Post-Candidacy: Complete at least 12 credits of MUSC899 doctoral dissertation research and successfully defend and submit an original dissertation. 

Ph.D. in Musicology

Course Title Credits
Required courses:
MUSC646Introduction to Musicology3
MUSC677Introduction to Ethnomusicology (Introduction to Ethnomusicology)3
Remainder of coursework selected with Advisor21
Dissertation Research Requirements
MUSC899Doctoral Dissertation Research12
Total Credits39

Ph.D. in Music Theory

Course Title Credits
Required courses:
MUSC651The Theories of Heinrich Schenker3
MUSC661Theory and Analysis of Atonal and Twelve-Tone Music3
MUSC675Music Theory Pedagogy3
MUSC699 Independent Study1
MUSC674Critical Concepts in Music Theory3
MUSC4xx/6xx Electives in Music Theory12
MUSC646Introduction to Musicology3
Dissertation Research Requirements
MUSC899Doctoral Dissertation Research12
Total Credits40