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Music (PhD)

Built around themes of music, health, community and culture, this four-year degree will benefit students interested in mastering their research skills and looking to make their mark in the fields of music therapy or community music.

Unique not only in Canada, but also internationally, the program curriculum is based on a Doctoral Action Plan, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Learning, and various Doctoral Special Seminar Topics (DSST).

Research pursuits are limitless, but may include music and wellness, music performance and transforming communities, music therapy interventions, music and the brain, global music practices, activism in health and well-being, music and aging, and music-medicine.

First program of its kind.

Diverse Doctoral Special Seminar Topics replace mandatory courses, personalizing your learning.

Options to focus research in Community Music or Music Therapy.

Program Details

Program structure.

The PhD in Music consists of 12 credits, comprised of a combination of Doctoral Seminar Special Topics (DSSTs), independent directed studies proposals relevant to their research topics as electives, seminars or symposia, research supervision, comprehensive exams and final dissertation writing and defense.

Because of the diversity of research topics pursued, the PhD program in Community Music/Music Therapy does not involve a core component; in general, the student works mainly with an individual supervisor and with their peer group.

Once the project is defined, methods established, and ethics approved, the subsequent years in the program are devoted to refining the research and moving forward in data collection. Along with collaborative learning, faculty advisement, and doctoral special topics seminars, the student develops a level of expertise in the specific field of focus.

Year One (Two Credits)

During the initial year of the program, students will work closely with a faculty advisor, research supervisor, and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) comprised of peer groups to establish and refine a research topic, scheduled goal-searching with task completion-related milestones, methodology planning, literature review, and symposium participation. Deliverables may include, but are not limited to:

• 5000-word research outline and plan for enacting the plan, including a timeline for completion;
• Contractual Agreement with advisor(s) regarding frequency and expectations in prepared consultations;
• Thorough literature review on research topic with annotated bibliography;
• Completion of the 700-level topics and symposia as scheduled.

Year Two (Two Credits)

During the second year of the program, students will work closely with their research supervisor and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) comprised of peer groups to establish and refine the research proposal (LOI), literature review, and data collection launching. Deliverables may include, but are not limited to:

• Literature review (publishable scoping review/systematic review on a chosen topic).
• LOI presented for the PhD Committee.

Year Three (Four Credits)

During the third year of the program, students continue working closely with their research supervisor and Collaborative Learning Communities (CLC) formed of peer groups, to refine data collection, data analysis, and dissertation writing. Main tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Data collection.
• Data analysis.

Year Four (Four Credits)

During the final year of the program, students continue working closely with their research supervisor to finish their dissertation, and to prepare the oral defense. Main tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Dissertation writing.
• Oral defense.

As a research-intensive doctoral degree, curriculum provided through Doctoral Action Plan, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Learning, and various Doctoral Special Seminar Topics (DSST) are designed to enable students to achieve doctoral level learning outcomes, meeting the qualifications and criteria for PhD-level research specific activity.

Doctoral Action Plan

In the first year, students develop a Doctoral Action Plan. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor, personal and professional learning outcomes would be developed, and the action plan would include targets and milestones for the project. Research projects would be designed and approved in consultation with the advisor or advisors and include thorough literature reviews.

Problem-Based Learning

This doctoral program is informed by the principles of Problem-Based Learning offering constructivist strategies where the doctoral student assumes the role of a self-directed and self-regulated learner.

Peer Learning

Collaborative Learning Communities formed of peer groups will be established. By working within the peer group an enriched learning community is created where ideas and problems are shared, knowledge exchanged, and learning finds value at an academic, professional, and personal level. Learning communities will be in regular contact and meet intensively 2–3 times a year.

Teaching Assistantship

A paid teaching component, generated through Teaching Assistantships for undergraduate courses, will be an important part of the PhD student’s training. This will enhance the overall quality of the undergraduate and graduate student experience.

Faculty Advisor

Regular consultations with a faculty advisor will provide structure in meeting pre-determined milestones throughout the degree program. The frequency of these meetings will vary, depending upon the type of research undertaken and the progression stage of the student within the program. It is recommended that bi-weekly sessions be scheduled initially.

Doctoral Seminar Topics

Doctoral Seminar Special Topics (DSSTs) are three-day intensives where students explore topics in-depth as a community of learners under the instruction of experts in the field. Three DSSTs will be scheduled annually. Students are required to attend at least two seminars each year with a minimum of eight required by the time of graduation.

DSST examples:

• Community Music Therapy
• Improvisation and Microanalysis
• Neurological Foundations
• Music and Aging Populations
• Indigenous Perspectives
• Music and Social Justice
• Utilizing music to recover mental health challenges
• Music, Songwriting, Listening and Leisure
• The Role of Music throughout the Life Span
• Music and Spirituality

Research Overview

During the second year of the program, a public, 45-minute presentation will be scheduled followed by Q/A and discussion. All faculty and grad students will be encouraged to participate. A major research study serves as the culminating evaluation. A dissertation (including arts-based research utilizing multi-media formats as pertinent to the student’s study) is required along with its successful defense. Each student will work with a faculty advisor or advisors over the duration of the program.

The student and advisor will establish deliverable dates where the student completes aspects of their study program, according to the outcomes designed and agreed upon ahead of time.

For example, Year 1 would include building a doctoral action plan where learning outcomes, project descriptions, literature reviews and research focuses are developed. Year 2 would include the ethics approval process and the start of data collection. It might also include an elective course and/or an applied placement. Pathways through the degree program are flexible and will be adapted to the student’s research focus.

Research Topics

A wide range of research topics are welcome, encouraging the student to explore areas of personal interest that have current relevance to the field. Personal and professional learning outcomes are developed, and the action plan will include targets and milestones for the project.

Upon approval of the proposed topic, the student will begin a research program under regular supervision. A supervisory committee comprised of two or more faculty will be established to support and provide feedback on the student’s progress, assessing the research plan.

Areas of Study

With a focus on either Community Music or Music Therapy , this degree would accommodate candidates interested in one or more of the following areas of study:

• Music Therapy, Community Music Therapy, or Music Psychotherapy
• Clinical music therapy - practice based/evidence-based research
• Music therapy interventions: improvisation, music listening, song writing
• Music therapy and creative arts practices
• Music and health
• Music and wellness
• Music in palliative care
• Studies in psychotherapy and counselling
• Low frequency/sound vibration studies
• Music and aging
• Music and medicine
• Music and brain
• Music and cognitive neurosciences
• Clinical improvisation in a Music Therapy context
• Music Psychotherapy interventions and approaches
• Music Therapy assessment
• Community Music leadership and facilitation,
• Freelance musicians with a passion for activism and/or health and wellbeing
• Innovative practices in music education
• Contemporary music: performance, facilitation, composition and improvisation in community contexts
• Global music practices
• Studies in peace and social justice through community music practices

"This program is uniquely designed and provides students with the expertise, resources, and experience to develop themselves as leading researchers in community music or music therapy."

Professor Lee Willingham, co-coordinator of Laurier’s PhD in Music: Community Music

Take the first step in your graduate education and apply to one of our graduate programs. Follow our three-step admission process — we’ll walk you through how to apply and prepare for your first day as a graduate student.

• Start: Fall (September)
• Format: Full-time
• Application deadline:  March 30 (international applicants), May 1 (domestic applicants)

*Domestic applications will remain open until May 1 with priority given to applicants who have submitted all application requirements by March 1. Those who apply after March 1 will only be interviewed, should there be room in the program.

Admission Requirements

Successful applicants must have completed a master’s program in areas such as Music, Music Education, Fine Arts, Music Therapy, or Community Music with a minimum average of A-. Applicants holding an honours undergraduate degree in in Music/Music Therapy/Community Music and a master’s degree in allied fields such as Social Work, Psychology, Pastoral Counselling, Music Education, Early Childhood Music, Pedagogy, Leisure Studies, or other related fields may be considered.

The application process will consist of an interview, three (3) academic reference letters, a completed Statement of Intent ** and an example of graduate-level writing.

Your Statement of Intent describes what you will investigate, why your topic is important, and how do you plan to conduct your research. It should include a title, introduction, literature review, research design (paradigm, research methods, data collection/analysis plan) and references. (2000 words)

Applicants to this program will indicate either (a) Community Music or (b) Music Therapy as their primary field of proposed study. Documented field experience in the applicant’s area of study will be considered an asset.

Applicants whose language of instruction was not English must furnish evidence of proficiency in English prior to admission, in accordance with university requirements.

Students who may not come from traditional music degrees but demonstrate life experience in pertinent aspects of Community Music or Music Therapy along with a strong application may be eligible for admission under the university’s existing alternate admission plan provision.

Applications will remain open until May 1, 2023 with priority given applicants who have submitted all application requirements by March 1, 2023. Those who apply after March 1 will only be interviewed should there by room in the program.

** In addition to submitting the digital copy of the Statement of Intent, applicants must submit a link to [email protected] with a 5-10 minute video, summarizing your Statement of Intent. The purpose of the video is to introduce yourself, why do you want to do PhD at Laurier, and would be a good candidate for the programme. 

Application Checklist

After you have submitted your OUAC application , paid the non-refundable application fee, and Laurier has received your application, you'll receive an email from [email protected] advising you to upload the additional required documentation to Laurier’s Online Registration and Information System (LORIS) .

Note that the application process and the uploading of supplemental documentation, which includes references, typically takes two weeks. To avoid disappointment, please apply early.

An application for admission to our PhD program in Music must include:

• The Application Summary, which is generated after you complete your OUAC application (log back in to OUAC to retrieve it).
• Transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work. Documents must be dated within the past six months.
• A completed statement of intent .
• A resume of your academic and work experience. Include a history of your publication and scholarly paper activity and any other information you feel will interest the admissions committee.
• A sample of your scholarly writing (10-20 pages in length). This may be a chapter of your master's thesis or a paper written for a graduate course.
• Completed reference forms . Three academic references are required. Note: Reference forms are electronically submitted to Laurier by the referee and do not need to be uploaded.

Visit our Graduate Admissions Toolkit for more information about applying.

English Proficiency

Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential to graduate studies at Laurier. Applicants whose language of instruction during their previous postsecondary education was not in English must submit evidence of proficiency in English. If applicable, results from accepted testing services must be uploaded to LORIS .

Your Next Steps

Questions? Contact [email protected] .

"There is no doubt our doctoral students will leave a lasting impression in the international research community, positively impacting the discipline of music therapy as well as the credibility of clinical work and practice."

Professor Heidi Ahonen, co-coordinator of the PhD in Music: Music Therapy

Waterloo Campus

This program is available on Laurier's Waterloo campus.

Laurier's Waterloo campus is home to more than 19,000 graduate and undergraduate students. Tucked into several city blocks, this campus is walking distance to your classrooms, food, and various campus amenities.

Laurier is a leading force in research among Canadian universities, and many of our research centres and institutes are housed in Waterloo.

Learn more about Laurier's campuses .

Tuition and Funding

Full-time domestic students will benefit from bursary and teaching assistantship opportunities at the university. Those unable to suspend their careers also have the option to complete the program as part-time students.

All full-time domestic students receive the PhD minimum guaranteed funding (MGF) package of two teaching assistantships and a scholarship.

The Faculty of Music welcomes international students to the PhD Program. International students who have confirmed funding from a third-party, such as their employer or a scholarship program in their home country, will be considered for admission beginning in the 2024/25 admission year.

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants.

"With contributions from several university-based partners, ASPIRE provides graduate students and postdoctoral researchers with informative, hands-on professional skills training essential for degree and post-degree success."

Brent Wolfe , Associate Vice-President and Dean, Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Graduates may go on to work in the following settings:

• Public Health
• Senior Communities
• Faith-based Communities
• Entreprenurial Settings

Your Path to Post-Degree Success

ASPIRE is Laurier's professional skills development training program for graduate students. The program helps you craft an individualized, extracurricular learning plan tailored to your professional journey and entry to the workplace .

Learn about the interests of our faculty members. If you are looking for more information about this program, have questions, or want to set up a meeting, contact a member of our team . 

Heidi Ahonen Professor, Music Therapy Coordinator, Master of Music Therapy Director, Manfred and Penny Conrad Institute for Music Therapy Research

Lee Willingham Professor, Music Education Director, Laurier Centre for Music in the Community Coordinator, Music Education Coordinator, Master of Arts in Community Music

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• Bachelor of Music
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• Master of Arts

Master of Music

Phd in music, doctor of musical arts.

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The UBC School of Music graduate programs offer an intensive, diverse and collaborative environment for excellence in performance, composition, conducting, and scholarship.

The Master of Music (MMus) and Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) offer programs in performance and composition. The MMus also offers a program in conducting with emphases in choral, orchestral, and wind instruments. The Master of Arts (MA) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music are offered with emphases in music theory, historical musicology, and ethnomusicology.

Graduates of our program are renowned performers, composers, scholars, educators and successful professionals in the music industry. Graduates are qualified to teach music at the college and university level.

Master of Arts in Music

The UBC School of Music gave me the tools, resources and freedom to explore my own musicianship, develop a skill set that was unique to me, and encourage a broad range of passions, all while providing a robust and relevant education. I have not come across another post-secondary music program with the same dedication to its students and their growth as UBC. I am thankful for my years spent there.

Music courses

Featured news, ubc music alum jeff toyne nominated for two emmy awards, from ubc graduate student to professor emeritus, dr. terence dawson retires from ubc school of music, phd student, sherryl sewepagaham awarded 2024 vanier canada graduate scholarship, interested in a career in music, take the next steps in enrolling at ubc..

School of Graduate Studies

Program overview.

A taught graduate degree program at the Faculty of Music was inaugurated in 1954. The Faculty of Music offers Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in the following fields:

• Ethnomusicology
• Music and Health Sciences
• Music Education
• Music Theory​

​​​Graduates from all areas of the program occupy leading positions in music departments across Canada and around the world.​

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School of Music

• M.A. and Ph.D. Ethnomusicology
• Ph.D. Program

The Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology program is designed to train individuals who envisage a career in scholarship, either as professors in the academy or as cultural animators of various types in the public sector. The program centers on in-depth exploration of key intellectual issues and theoretical directions in the study of music as a cultural practice. Coursework and comprehensive examination preparation ensures an adequate knowledge base for the undertaking of a major independent research initiative.

The Ph.D. program may be completed within twelve to fifteen consecutive semesters of full-time study, depending on fieldwork requirements. The degree is normally taken by completing course work, comprehensive examinations, a language proficiency requirement, and a Ph.D. thesis, defended in accordance with General Regulation Theses and Reports  of the School of Graduate Studies.

Students must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours of coursework . If required courses have been completed at the M.A. level, electives may be substituted (with approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee). The required courses are:

• Music 8001; Folklore 6030; and Folklore 7100.
• Twelve credit hours of electives selected from courses listed below or from relevant courses offered in another discipline (with the approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee). Ph.D. students may take up to two courses (6 credit hours) in a cognate discipline.
• Reading proficiency in one language other than English, relevant to the research area, demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee. The choice of language must be approved by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee. The language exam should normally be completed before the comprehensive exams.
• Further courses beyond the minimum number may be required, depending on the background and needs of the student.

Comprehensive examinations will be administered in a major area, minor area, and theoretical/interdisciplinary area; a component of the comprehensive examination will test audio-visual skills. Bibliographies and discographies for several focused topics will be developed by the student in consultation with his/her supervisory committee and will be the basis of examination questions. The written portion of the examination will be scheduled over a one-week period. An oral defense of the written essays will be scheduled normally within one month following the completion of the written examination. For further information see General Regulation Comprehensive Examinations, Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination .

Students must complete a thesis , examined and defended in accordance with  General Regulation Theses and Reports of the School of Graduate Studies. A thesis proposal, including a working title, statement of purpose and research scope, outline of theoretical and methodological approach, working plan, and preliminary bibliography, together with proposed membership of the supervisory committee, must be submitted to the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee no later than the fifth semester of study. The thesis shall demonstrate the candidate’s ability to carry out original and independent research, develop the necessary theoretical and methodological framework, and present the findings in a scholarly manner.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Thesis-based program

Program overview.

​Hone your talents under the direction of distinguished faculty members at the School of Creative and Performing Arts. The school provides a wide range of opportunities for intensive study in composition, electroacoustic media, musicology, music history, multimedia, sound spatialization, sonic arts and more. Students are encouraged to explore an integrative approach to performance practice, interdisciplinary research and creative activity. The School of Creative and Performing Arts holds over 80 concerts per year. Students will have a unique opportunity to experience and perform music in the Rozsa Centre`s Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall, one of Western Canada's premiere recital facilities.

Completing this program

Core Course: Research techniques and Bibliography of Music.

Additional Courses:  Topics may include musicology, composition, electroacoustic music, computer music, theory and others.

Music Education Specialization:  Requires an interdisciplinary course designed by the student and supervisor.

Thesis:  Students specializing in Music Education will complete a substantial research project.

Specializations

• Composition*
• Music Education
• Musicology*
• Sonic Arts*

Specializations listed with an * are currently suspended and not accepting applications

Music Teacher, Professor, Instrumental Clinician, Researcher.

A PhD in music is usually considered a final degree.

Students are required to prepare a thesis and successful defend in an open oral defense/.

Minimum six courses

Learn more about program requirements in the Academic Calendar

Classroom delivery

Time commitment.

Four years full-time; six years maximum

A supervisor is required, but is not required prior to the start of the program

See the Graduate Calendar for information on  fees and fee regulations,  and for information on  awards and financial assistance .

Supervisors

Learn about faculty available to supervise this degree. Please note: additional supervisors may be available. Contact the program for more information.

Allan Gordon Bell

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PhD in Music Theory

• MA in Music Theory
• Direct Entry PhD in Music Theory
• BMus in Music History, Culture, and Theory
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• Undergraduate Electives

The following is for informational purposes only . For the official version of the program requirements, please consult the SGS calendar .

This program is offered on a full-time basis only and begins in September. We have ONE admissions cycle per year.

Minimum Admission Requirements

The PhD in Music, Music Theory is a research degree. Candidates must hold a master’s degree with specialization in music theory, musicology, ethnomusicology or related area, and must have an average standing of B+ or better.

Exceptional applicants with an undergraduate degree may apply directly to the five-year fully-funded Direct Entry PhD program .

Applicants, whether from the University of Toronto or from elsewhere, may be interviewed by the Department.

For more details on how and when to apply, visit Applying & Auditions (PhD in Music Theory) .

Program requirements

There are six main requirements in the PhD in Music Theory:

• Fulfillment of the residence requirement
• Fulfillment of course requirements
• Fulfillment of language requirements
• Successful completion of the comprehensive examinations
• Successful completion of the major field examination associated with MUS3997H
• The writing and successful defense of a dissertation

Residence Requirement

PhD students are required to be in residence for two years, except for absences necessary for research and authorized by the Department. To fulfill this requirement a student must be in such geographical proximity as to be able to visit the campus regularly and participate fully in the university’s activities associated with the program.

Course Requirements

Students registered in the PhD in Music Theory must complete 3.0 full-course equivalents as follows:

• MUS1250H PhD Seminar (0.5 credits)
• MUS3997H Research in Music Theory * (0.5 credits, second term)
• 1 full-course equivalent in graduate-only seminars in music theory
• 1 full- course equivalent in electives **

*Research in Music Theory (MUS3997H), must be started at the beginning of the second term of the first year and must be completed by the end of the first term of year 2. During their first year, students are expected to discuss their interests, expectations and research objectives with faculty members. An appropriate supervisor for MUS3997H must then be agreed upon. The supervisor will be primarily responsible for determining the structure and content of MUS3997H, which will include a research paper.

**With the approval of the divisional course and program advising committee, one half-course may be taken outside of music theory, musicology and ethnomusicology (either in the Graduate Department of Music or in another graduate unit).

Coursework should be completed during the first year of study, with an average grade of at least A-, with the exception of MUS3997H, which lays the groundwork for the dissertation research and leads to the Major Field examination in year 2. Students may be required to take additional courses or acquire other skills to meet the needs of their proposed subjects of study.

Language Requirements

[ Updated Summer 2023 ]

Two research languages in addition to English are required: one “secondary” and one “primary.” Students may complete coursework in statistics or computer programming (coding) in place of one language. The goal is to have all language requirements fulfilled by the end of Year 2.

The “secondary” language requirement is the same as the MA language requirement. The default language for the secondary language requirement is German. Students who wish to choose languages other than German or to substitute coursework in statistics or computer programming (coding) must submit a petition to the Division Head (either Musicology or Music Theory) by the end of the first session of Year 1. 

Students can fulfil the secondary language requirement in one of the following three ways:

• complete GER 300H at U of T or its equivalent from another university with a minimum grade of B+; or
• complete GER 6000H; or
• pass a proficiency exam set by the Division

Students who have fulfilled the MA language requirement at U of T may count this as the secondary language or use it as a stepping stone towards the primary language. It is expected that students complete the secondary language requirement by the end of Year 1.

The “primary” language requirement involves advanced reading proficiency in the chosen language. ​Students who wish to choose languages other than German or to substitute intermediate-advanced coursework in statistics or computer programming (coding) must submit a petition to the Division Head (either Musicology or Music Theory) by the end of the first session of Year 1. Information on petitioning is available at the Faculty of Music Graduate Studies Office. 

Students can fulfil the primary language requirement in one of the following three ways:

• complete a 400-level language course at U of T or its equivalent from another university with a minimum grade of B+; or
• pass a proficiency exam set by the Division; or
• pass an exam in another graduate unit by arrangement through the Graduate Department of Music

Students are allowed two attempts at the in-house exam after which they must take a language course at the appropriate MA or PhD level. All language requirements must be completed by the end of year 3. Exceptions are granted only in extenuating circumstances and by petition.

Comprehensive Examinations

The comprehensive examinations (UTORid login required) , taken in the fall of Year 2, are in three parts: (1) contemporary issues, (2) history of the field, and (3) repertoire. Students are permitted two attempts to complete the comprehensive exams, the second attempt to occur in January of Year 2.

Major Field Examination

The purpose of the Major Field Examination is to assess the student’s general knowledge of his or her chosen research field, to examine the theoretical premises and methodological approaches set out in the research paper, and to determine eligibility to continue to the research and writing stages of the dissertation. The Major Field Examination is associated with MUS3997H and is scheduled to take place no later than the end of year 2.

By the midpoint of Year 2 the student must submit an initial dissertation proposal (UTORid login required) of up to 3000 words for divisional circulation. This proposal will derive from the research and writing being undertaken for MUS3997H, and its purpose is to elicit constructive advice from graduate faculty that may help both to direct the student’s study and prepare him or her for the Major Field Examination. Based on these responses, and on faculty members’ fields of expertise, the supervisor will appoint a Major Field Examination Committee comprising the supervisor plus at least two other members of the graduate faculty.

The supervisor will determine a grade for MUS3997H, and the Major Field Examination Committee will pass or fail the student’s performance in the oral examination. The student must attain at least an A- in MUS3997H and pass the oral examination in order to proceed with the PhD. In the event that these standards are not met, a second Major Field examination will be scheduled approximately two months later for the resubmission of the research paper and/or a second attempt at the oral examination. A failure to achieve the standards set for the written and/or oral examination at the second attempt results in the student being required to withdraw from the program.

It is the responsibility of the Associate Dean, Graduate Education to inform the student of the results of the Major Field examination as soon as possible. It is the responsibility of the Major Field Examination Committee to make a recommendation to the Associate Dean, Graduate Education concerning the timing of the second examination if necessary. The committee appointed to conduct the second examination should as far as possible include the same members who examined the student in the first place.

On successful completion of all course, language and Major Field exam requirements, a doctoral student becomes a doctoral candidate and embarks fully on dissertation research and writing.

The Doctoral Dissertation

The doctoral dissertation must be a piece of original scholarship based on primary materials and submitted in conformity with the guidelines stated below. In most cases, the doctoral candidate’s supervisor for MUS3997H will continue to act as supervisor for the rest of the doctorate. A Doctoral Advisory Committee will be struck on successful completion of MUS3997H and the Major Field examination: this committee must consist of at least three members of the University of Toronto’s graduate faculty, one of whom, if appropriate, may be from outside the Graduate Department of Music. In many cases, the Major Field Examination Committee will become the candidate’s Doctoral Advisory Committee.

Within a month of the successful completion of MUS3997H and the Major Field examination, a revised and more detailed dissertation proposal must be submitted that also outlines a tentative schedule for research and writing. The Doctoral Advisory Committee will meet with the candidate in order to approve the dissertation proposal and offer advice. Thereafter, the candidate will meet no less than twice a year with the Doctoral Advisory Committee. The candidate will prepare progress reports, including written work, to be circulated to committee members at least two weeks in advance of the meetings (or longer, in the event of a substantial body of written work). The Doctoral Advisory Committee will then prepare its own report of the meeting and will indicate whether or not satisfactory progress towards the doctorate has been made. In cases where progress is unsatisfactory, clear guidelines must be provided that set out expectations to be met at the next meeting. Two unsatisfactory assessments (consecutive or in total) will result in the candidate being required to withdraw from the program.

In some cases, fieldwork will be required as part of the doctoral study. Candidates planning to undertake fieldwork must apply to the Associate Dean, Graduate Education for off-campus status. All off-campus candidates must leave an official field address with the Graduate Office while they are away. Since it is each candidate’s responsibility to apply for off-campus status, failure to apply could result in forfeiture of registration, fellowships and awards, and loss of full-time graduate status.

University policy regarding “Safety in the Field” outlines a hierarchy of responsibility for safety starting with the candidate’s academic supervisor. Before departing for the field, the candidate must file a letter with the Department that acknowledges awareness of any risks in the proposed fieldwork. In some instances, doctoral candidates may need to satisfy an ethics review, in which case research must be structured according to the University of Toronto’s guidelines on the use of human subjects.

When the Doctoral Advisory Committee is satisfied that the dissertation is ready to proceed to its oral defense, the candidate will prepare the work according to the formatting guidelines established by the University of Toronto’s School of Graduate Studies. The dissertation shall not exceed 80,000 words exclusive of notes and bibliography. Exceeding the prescribed length limit is a sufficient reason for a dissertation to be refused examination. Once the dissertation has been fully prepared for submission, a doctoral candidate becomes a doctoral author.

A date will be set for the PhD defense roughly eight weeks after submission of the dissertation. The Doctoral Defense Committee will ordinarily consist of five or six voting members (there must be a quorum of four voting members) and will include the supervisor, other members the Doctoral Advisory Committee (only two of whom may be voting members), at least one internal reader who has not been closely involved in the supervision of the thesis, and an external examiner from another university who is an expert in the author’s field of study. The external examiner will provide a written report to the author and the other members of the Doctoral Defense Committee no less than two weeks prior to the defense.

Extensions, Lapsing, and Reinstatement

It is the Graduate Department of Music’s aim that doctoral candidates complete their degrees within four years. A candidate who has failed to complete all degree requirements within six years may be granted a one-year extension, if the Department approves. The Department is likely to approve such a request if the candidate can provide evidence that he or she has made substantial progress and is likely to finish within the one-year extension. PhD candidates who fail to complete the program in that period may apply for a further extension of up to one year, but the Department scrutinizes such an application very carefully and consents only if it is persuaded that the thesis will be completed within the period of further extension. Third extensions are decided by the School of Graduate Studies and are rarely granted.

A failure to complete the program after an extension, or the refusal of an extension by the School of Graduate Studies, results in the lapsing of the candidacy. Lapsing does not mean termination. The School of Graduate Studies thinks of the lapsed candidate as being “inactive.” Lapsing has the effect of withdrawing the privileges that membership in the University brings – the right to a carrel in the library, to supervision, and so on. But those whose candidacy has lapsed are encouraged by the Department to finish their programs and are helped in every way possible while doing so. Dissertations must be complete before applying for reinstatement by the School of Graduate Studies. Candidates will be required to pay at least the equivalent of one term’s full-time fee in order to be reinstated.

A request for reinstatement may be refused when, in the view of the Department Chair, the thesis or research paper is not sufficiently complete or of sufficiently high quality for the Department to support it.

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PhD in Music Education

Graduate studies.

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Admission Requirements

• A Master's degree in Music Education (or equivalent)
• Minimum 70% average in the Master's degree

Application Materials

• Two essays (3,000-4,000 words) that demonstrate the ability to articulate and carry out research in music education
• A statement of interest video (10 minutes)
• A recent music teaching video (15-20 minutes) including a reflective running commentary (voice-over or subtitles)
• A current resume or CV
• Three confidential letters of reference
• Transcripts  from all institutions attended, uploaded in PDF
• Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Selected candidates will be invited for an interview

Application Deadline: December 1

The PhD in Music Education program challenges students to think critically and creatively, applying theoretical ideas to their experiences as musicians and educators. Pedagogical issues are explored through diverse lenses that consider the past, present, and future of music education. Our students actively present their research at conferences and workshops around the world.    

“ I think faculty members and also all my colleagues are very supportive, especially as an international student. My first year here [I] was overwhelmed not only because of the language barriers but also about a lot of academic things I was not so familiar with. And all of the faculty members and colleagues, they helped me a lot. And I felt like I'm in the family and everyone supports each other." Xiao Dong, PhD Candidate

Video interview: Xiao Dong and our PhD in Music Education program.  

Program Requirements

Timeline for Progression

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*Students are encouraged to take at least one of their electives outside of the Faculty of Music.

• Students are encouraged to develop their topics for each of the 2 Qualifying Examination papers (Literature/Theoretical Framework and Methodology) throughout Terms 3, 4 and 5. Consultation with faculty is highly encouraged.
• By May 1 (start of Term 6), each student should have a confirmed dissertation supervisory committee (normally a dissertation supervisor and a second reader). The dissertation supervisory committee will determine a deadline for submission of the Qualifying Examination papers. The dissertation proposal should follow from the Qualifying Examination.
• The Dissertation Proposal Defense should be completed as early as possible in Term 7, following successful completion of the Qualifying Examination.
• This chart does not include the application for ethics approval (where applicable). The student and supervisor must plan accordingly. 

Directory of Current PhD Students

Recently completed dissertations  , contact info.

Associate Dean (Graduate Studies)  Kevin Mooney TC 215 [email protected] Graduate Program Assistant Audrey Yardley-Jones TC 216 519-661-2111 x85354 [email protected]

Don Wright Faculty of Music Talbot College, Room 210 London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7 Tel: 519-661-2111 x82043 [email protected] Privacy | Web Standards | Terms of Use | Accessibility

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• Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition (DMA)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Go to programs search

The D.M.A. program is designed for composers who have already reached a high level of proficiency and artistry in their fields and who may wish to teach at the university level. This program offers an opportunity to bring creative and performance achievement to a high level while enriching individual backgrounds with academic studies, including specialized training in music history and theory, and other areas. Graduate student composers work closely with faculty in composition and music theory, and are expected to compose major works for public performance in addition to fulfilling course requirements.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

Considered one of the finest programs of its kind in Canada, the UBC Composition Division provides an array of opportunities for the creation, exploration and performance of contemporary music.In addition to a variety of course offerings, the division sponsors numerous composition events, including regularly scheduled Student Composer Concerts, seminars, workshops and collaborations with local professional ensembles, performances by the Contemporary Players ensemble, and annual readings sessions by the UBC Symphony Orchestra and the UBC Symphonic Wind Ensemble. The Composition Division also frequently hosts world-renowned guest composers and performing ensembles from across Canada and abroad. The School houses a state-of-the-art electronic music studio for students interested in creating works which involve sound synthesis, digital audio editing, or interactive computer music.

Graduate student composers have occasions to hear their works in regularly scheduled concerts as well as in their degree recitals. The UBC Symphony performs or reads students' orchestra pieces annually and the choirs are all active in presenting student works. The computer music studio is of considerable scope and is open to students on a 24-hour basis. Visit the compositions division page for more information about the program. https://music.ubc.ca/composition

I knew I wanted to pursue graduate studies at a university with a strong choral program, and where I could study with a composition teacher who specializes in choral music. Since choral composition is a relatively small sub-field within composition, there were only a handful of universities that offered what I was looking for, and UBC ended up being the best fit for me.

Walker Williams

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.

Supply a brief statement of intent that outlines your professional goals as a composer and your reasons for applying to this program at UBC. Submit a term paper (not less than ten pages in length). Submit hard-copy scores of at least five (5) works for varied media. Submit corresponding audio/video of these works.

1) Check Eligibility

Minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 90

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 6.5

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

M.Mus degree in composition, or acceptable equivalent

Course Requirements

i. Outstanding ability in composition ii. M.Mus. degree in composition, or acceptable equivalent

Document Requirements

A portfolio of PDF scores and corresponding audio/video of least five (5) works for varied media. Submission instructions will be emailed to applicants after the application deadline. Upload deadline is January 3. 

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

• Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition (DMA)

Applicants may contact the division chair, Dr. Keith Hamel ( [email protected] ) or the composition professor of your choice with questions about the program.

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research facilities.

The 1200-seat, world-class Chan Centre for Performing Arts, one of North America's premier musical venues, the historic Old Auditorium and the intimate Roy Barnett Recital Hall form the core of UBC Music’s performing venues. The UBC Computer Music Studio is a teaching studio for the use of students in the electroacoustic music, computer music, and film scoring courses. The ICICS Computer Music Studio is available for students interested in pursuing research in Digital Audio or Interactive Computer Music.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial Support

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

Students admitted to the School of Music’s graduate programs are automatically considered for scholarships under the GSI (Graduate Support Initiative) program. These competitive awards typically range from $1,000 to 12,000 and are guaranteed for two to four years.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

9 students graduated between 2005 and 2013: 1 is in a non-salaried situation; for 0 we have no data (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016). For the remaining 8 graduates:

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, career options.

Many of our graduates hold prestigious appointments at universities, colleges, and public schools. Graduates also work in residence with major symphony orchestras and professional chamber ensembles, and contribute to commercial music internationally. For alumni stories, please explore  https://music.ubc.ca/blog/

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition (DMA). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion Rates & Times

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

Doctoral Citations

Sample Thesis Submissions

• Drag queens and dragons : for soprano and chamber ensemble
• My Madness for soprano and small orchestra
• Sprinkle coal dust on my grave
• Symphonies of Mother and Child
• 차가운 (Chagaun)-The book of ice : for flute solo and chamber orchestra
• CMB (Cosmic Microwave Background)

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Music in Composition (MMUS)

Same Academic Unit

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Orchestral Instrument (DMA)
• Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano (DMA)
• Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice (DMA)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Ethnomusicology (PhD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Musicology (PhD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Theory (PhD)
• Master of Arts in Music, Emphasis Ethnomusicology (MA)
• Master of Arts in Music, Emphasis Musicology (MA)
• Master of Arts in Music, Emphasis Theory (MA)
• Master of Music in Conducting (Emphasis Choral Conducting) (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Conducting (Emphasis Orchestral Conducting) (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Conducting (Emphasis Wind Conducting) (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Guitar (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Harpsichord (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Historical Performance Practice (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Opera (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Orchestral Instrument (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Organ (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Piano (MMUS)
• Master of Music in Voice (MMUS)

Further Information

Specialization.

In addition to a variety of course offerings, the division sponsors numerous composition events, including regularly scheduled Student Composer Concerts, seminars, workshops and collaborations with local professional ensembles, performances by the Contemporary Players ensemble, and annual readings sessions by the UBC Symphony Orchestra and the UBC Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

UBC Calendar

Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

Considering UBC for your graduate studies?

Here, you can choose from more than 300 graduate degree program options and 2000+ research supervisors. You can even design your own program.

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