PhD in Music Education in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is granted for successfully completing original academic research presented in a dissertation or for exceptional creative achievements. This degree signifies that recipients possess not only deep knowledge of their field's content and methodologies, but also exhibit broad intellectual curiosity and innovative thinking that shows strong potential for future accomplishments in research, creative work, and teaching. The Composition, Theory, and Musicology departments provide a combined MA/PhD track.
Music education PhD candidates must hold a master's degree prior to admission. However, students pursuing PhDs in Composition, Musicology, or Theory may enter the program with just a bachelor's degree, subsequently earning their master's degree along the way.
The Composition and Music Education programs offer both DMA and PhD degree paths. The PhD program focuses on scholarly research and writing, while the DMA emphasizes performance. DMA applicants must complete an audition on their primary instrument or voice, unlike PhD candidates.