Doctor of Philosophy in Music

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Music programme is designed for extensive, self-directed research supported by a team of supervisors within the discipline of music. The programme aims to facilitate original contributions to knowledge and society through the submission of a written thesis.

The programme is conducted entirely in English. It is essential that all candidates are able to speak, read, and write fluently in English.

PhD candidates can undertake supervised research at the Institute of Music in a wide variety of areas of music including but not limited to:

Key Modules

1Course

2Music Research Methodology*

3Graduation requirements

4A thesis that can take different forms such as:

580,000-word thesis

6Composition portfolio and a 40,000-word thesis

7Successful defence of thesis in a viva voce.

8Programme Learning Outcomes

9PLO1: Able to demonstrate significant current knowledge in relation to all aspects in music

10PLO2: Able to employ self-directed study in relation to music theory and practices

11PLO3: Able to critically evaluate personal practices through reflection and self-organisation

Entry Requirements

Candidates must meet either of the following requirements:

A Master’s Degree accepted by the Higher Education Provider (HEPs) Senate of the institution; or

Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s Degree, as accepted by the HEP’s Senate of the institution.

Notes for PhD by research:

There shall be no direct entry from the bachelor’s degree level to the doctoral degree level.

However, candidates with bachelor’s degree qualifications, registered for master’s degree programmes may apply to convert their candidacy to doctoral degree programmes

Application of conversion must be done within one year after the candidate registers for master’s degree programmes.

Application approval is subject to:

Having shown competency and capability in conducting research at the doctoral degree level;

Rigorous internal assessment by the HEP and;

Approval by the HEP Senate

Research Proposal Requirements

Research proposals should be 1200-1500 words in length (excluding title and references) and include the following sections:

Background and Rationale

Review of Literature

Research Question(s)

Research Methods

Please complete your proposal using this

and submit it along with your application.

Candidates may be admitted into the programme by meeting all the academic, language, music or audition, and proposal requirements below. Additional documentations such as prior experiences in the field and recommendation letters are required.

Academic Requirements

English Language Requirements

For Local students

Cambridge Linguaskills

Cambridge English Qualification and Test

Pearson Test of English

Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) by ELS

* If your native language or the prior degree studies is not in English, proof of English language proficiency is required when submitting your application. If English language is the medium of instruction from previous institution, supporting document is required.

For International Students

Cambridge English Qualifications and Tests

All applicants will go through an initial screening and only shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.

Doctor of Philosophy in Music

Program Overview

Key Modules

Entry Requirements

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