Stanford University

Overview

Stanford University offers an intensive doctoral program in Ethnomusicology, designed to equip students with comprehensive training in ethnographic fieldwork, ethnomusicological methods, and critical theories surrounding music in society. This program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating aspects of performance studies, anthropology, and area-based research within a vibrant interdisciplinary music community.

What you'll study

The program structure combines core graduate training with methodological coursework, research-oriented seminars, and dissertation preparation. Key components of the curriculum include:

• Musicology Proseminar
• Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
• Ethnographic Fieldwork covering methods, ethics, and research design
• Dissertation Colloquium focusing on proposal development, research progress, and scholarly feedback

PhD students are required to complete an original dissertation based on extensive research, which is typically rooted in ethnographic or archival scholarship. This project is developed through departmental milestones and ongoing dissertation advising. Students are encouraged to cultivate a coherent research agenda through active seminar participation, writing, and the iterative refinement of research questions and methodologies.

Entry requirements

Applicants for the doctoral program must possess a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, with a foundation in Music recommended. The following components are typically required for application:

• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Scanned (unofficial) transcripts from each institution attended for at least one year
• Writing sample (for PhD applicants): This may include a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, class papers, published papers, or other academic writing that showcases scholarly ability

Additionally, the GRE General Test may be required; please confirm current departmental policies prior to applying. For international students, a TOEFL iBT score is necessary, with minimum requirements specified by Stanford’s graduate admissions policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Ethnomusicology doctoral program will find themselves well-prepared for a range of career opportunities in academia, research, and cultural institutions. Potential career paths include university faculty positions, research roles in cultural organizations, and positions in museums or music archives. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with versatile skills applicable in various fields related to music and culture.