PhD in Musicology in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree recognizes the completion of original academic research successfully presented in a dissertation or exceptional creative work. This advanced degree signifies that recipients possess not only deep knowledge of their field's content and methodologies, but have also shown intellectual breadth and innovative thinking that suggests strong potential for future achievements in research, writing, and teaching. The Composition, Theory, and Musicology departments provide an integrated MA/PhD pathway.
Music education PhD candidates must hold a master's degree prior to admission, while Composition, Musicology, or Theory applicants may enter with just a bachelor's degree, earning their master's degree along the way. Composition and Music Education students can choose between DMA or PhD programs, with the PhD focusing on scholarly research and writing, while the DMA emphasizes performance and requires an instrumental or vocal audition. Eastman's Musicology program takes an interdisciplinary approach, benefiting from the school's vibrant musical community. The department grants PhD degrees specializing in historical/critical studies or ethnomusicology, along with MA degrees in these areas. With eight dedicated faculty members and additional University of Rochester collaborators, the program covers diverse topics from opera and jazz to gender studies and musical politics. Recent seminars have explored subjects including early opera, Romantic improvisation, sound media, African American vocal traditions, medieval composer Hildegard von Bingen, post-humanist perspectives, and South Asian musical traditions.