Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Music Performance) programme places emphasis on both research and performance at its core either as soloist in solo performance or as the primary performer or soloist in collaborative setting. This programme develops doctoral-level creativity through performance and skills of critical enquiry in research. The Institute of Music at UCSI is well-known for its Top 32 ranking in the world for performing arts in the QS World University Ranking 2025. Learn from some of the world’s best performers and join the fraternity of over 1,000 music graduates the institute has created to date.

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

Key Modules

1Course

2Music Research Methods

3Graduation requirements

43 Creative Work Projects

5- Recital 1 (50-60 minutes performance)

6- Recital 2 (50-60 minutes performance)

7- Lecture-Recital (60 minutes performance and 2,000 words document)

81 Research Project

9- 1 thesis (20,000 - 40,000 words)

10Semester 9

11Submission and Viva

12Programme Learning Outcomes

13PLO1: Explain aesthetical issues related to music performance studies and research.

14PLO3: Deliver professional-level music performances informed by current scholarship and research.

15PLO4: Communicate clearly through effective delivery methods.

16PLO7: Manage concerts and other performance events.

Entry Requirements

Master’s Degree accepted by the HEPs Senate; or

Other qualifications equivalent to a Master's Degree, as accepted by the HEPs Senate; or

Other qualifications equivalent to a Master's Degree in a related field recognised by the Government of Malaysia

Music Audition Requirements

to find out more.

Proposal Requirements

Candidates are required to submit the following:

One thesis proposal

with information on the scope of research, literature review, and supporting references. The proposal has to be between 500-1,000 words. The focus of the research covers all areas of performances, literatures, and composers. Focus on repertoires performed in Recital 1 and 2 is encouraged.

The following components are required:

Background of Study

Significance of Study

Research Aims/Goals

Research Methods

Research Questions

Two creative work proposals

- proposed list of repertoires programme to be performed.

- with information on the scope of the literature or performance to be studied and presented. Literature review and supporting reference to be included. The proposal has to be between 250-500 words.

Commencement of the Programme for International Students

Successful applicant will be able to proceed with the programme once the visa requirement is approved and received by the music office.

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

Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance

Program Overview

Key Modules

Entry Requirements

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