PhD in Music - Composition in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is granted upon successfully completing and defending original scholarly research presented in a dissertation or producing exceptional creative work in composition. This degree signifies that recipients possess not only deep expertise in their chosen field's subject matter and methodologies, but also exhibit broad intellectual curiosity and innovative thinking that show strong potential for achievement in research, composition, and teaching. For music education PhD candidates, a master's degree is required for program admission. Composition, musicology, and theory PhD students may enter with just a bachelor's degree, subsequently earning their master's degree during the program. Graduate research studies in composition and music education occur within their respective divisions, with each program featuring distinct curricular focuses. Regarding admissions, while the Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) mandates an instrumental or vocal audition, the PhD has no audition requirement. The PhD program prioritizes research and writing for Composition and Music Education students, whereas the DMA concentrates on performance.