PhD in Music in College Park United States | University of Maryland, College Park

The School of Music provides graduate programs culminating in Master of Arts degrees with specializations in ethnomusicology, music history (musicology), music education, and music theory. Students can also pursue Master of Music degrees in performance, composition, conducting, and music education. Doctoral options include the Doctor of Philosophy with concentrations in ethnomusicology, musicology, music education, and music theory, as well as the Doctor of Musical Arts specializing in composition, performance, and conducting. The Ph.D. program mandates completion of substantial coursework, approved by both the student and Graduate Advisor, to prepare for preliminary examinations and candidacy admission. Each specialization has specific course prerequisites, with a minimum grade of B- required for all degree-applicable courses. All doctoral candidates must complete a dissertation (either written or project-based). Students select a Principal Advisor with their academic advisor, then jointly appoint additional committee members. Before committee approval by the Graduate School, candidates must submit a comprehensive Dissertation Prospectus to their committee and Graduate Director, and achieve candidacy status. The dissertation requires successful defense before the full committee. Notably, the Doctor of Philosophy degree specifically mandates a Written Dissertation.