G-MUS-PHD - Music - PhD

The Department of Music offers graduate programs leading to the PhD in composition, the PhD in ethnomusicology, and the PhD in musicology. It also offers the MA in performance practice as an alternative part of the PhD in musicology.

Applicants for admission to all degree programs will normally have a broad liberal arts background as well as demonstrable musical competence. Those applying to the composition program should submit samples of their compositions with their applications. For the musicology and ethnomusicology programs, applicants should include samples of their writing on musical topics. Upon acceptance to the university, by nomination of the graduate faculty in music, musicology students may also be admitted to the Program in Medieval and Renaissance Studies. For students pursuing the musicology PhD with emphasis in performance practice, the department encourages applications from advanced musicians who have demonstrated an ability to conduct research about the performance of music in historical contexts. Applicants in performance practice should submit a recording of their work in the field as well as a sample of their writing.

A more detailed description of each degree program is available upon request from the director of graduate studies. For additional information visit music.duke.edu/graduate.