PhD in Music and Sound Studies in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

Cornell grants the Ph.D. degree for innovative research in music, broadly defined to encompass diverse repertoires, traditions, and analytical approaches. The program integrates ethnomusicology, music theory, and historical musicology under a unified Ph.D. in music and sound studies. Designed exclusively for doctoral candidates, the program doesn't offer a terminal M.A., though students entering without a master's degree will earn one during their doctoral journey. Ph.D. candidates receive guaranteed five-year funding, consisting of two fellowship years (typically first and fifth years) and three years as teaching assistants. The music and sound studies doctoral program stands out for its adaptability - each student collaborates with their Special Committee to create a personalized curriculum, allowing for interdisciplinary combinations between Music (including sound studies, composition, and performance practice) and other academic disciplines at Cornell.