PhD in Music in New York United States | Columbia University

The Musicology curriculum encompasses historical music studies, ethnomusicology, and music theory. Applicants choose one specialization, though their studies often extend across these disciplines. The program explores diverse subjects, from Western musical traditions to global music cultures, popular and urban music forms, jazz, analytical approaches, music cognition, aesthetics, and musical philosophy. Students benefit from exceptional resources including the Gabe Wiener Music & Arts Library in Dodge Hall and the Center for Ethnomusicology's extensive audio collections. The department publishes Current Musicology, the longest-running graduate student-edited journal in the field. The Composition program provides training across multiple styles and formats, supported by the acclaimed Columbia Computer Music Center with its cutting-edge electronic music facilities. Columbia Composers, a student-run group, arranges performances of student works by professional ensembles at various New York venues.