Doctor of Musical Arts in Early Music (Emphasis in Historical Plucked Instruments) in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The DMA degree recognizes exceptional achievement in musical performance and instruction. To qualify, applicants must exhibit outstanding artistic ability coupled with superior intellectual capacity. Students can pursue composition and music education through either graduate professional studies (the DMA track) or graduate research studies, with each path offering distinct curricular focuses. Notably, DMA applicants must audition on their principal instrument or voice, while PhD candidates are exempt from this requirement. The DMA program uniquely emphasizes hands-on musical application across all specializations. For instance, both composition and music education concentrations incorporate significant performance elements in the DMA curriculum, contrasting with the PhD's alternative focus.
Degree candidates must fulfill specific academic requirements to earn the DMA. Typically involving a minimum of 60 post-master's credits, each student's plan of study requires Graduate Professional Committee (GPC) endorsement. Students collaborate closely with their advisors to design these programs, which should receive GPC approval by the third semester (or after completing 20 credits). Coursework varies based on individual needs—determined through theory and music history placement exams—educational background, and professional aspirations. Final GPC approval must occur at least four months before the doctoral qualifying examination. Most full-time students complete the DMA program in approximately 3.5 years.