University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The PhD curriculum combines advanced coursework, pedagogy and sustained original research. Core studies typically include research methods in music, advanced music theory, historiography and critical approaches, and specialised seminars in areas such as musicology, ethnomusicology, composition, contemporary music analysis, performance practice and conducting.

Students usually undertake a programme of elective and directed readings suited to their area of concentration, prepare for comprehensive examinations, and complete substantial practical components where appropriate (for example doctoral recitals, composition portfolios or applied teaching practica). The degree culminates in a doctoral dissertation that contributes original scholarship or creative work to the field.

• Advanced seminars in music history and literature
• Analytical and theoretical studies
• Composition and creative research (when appropriate)
• Performance study and doctoral recitals (for performance concentrations)
• Pedagogy and supervised teaching experiences
• Research methods, bibliographic training and dissertation preparation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master's degree (for example MM, MA or equivalent) in music or a closely related field with a strong academic and/or performance record. Admissions typically require a detailed CV, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and goals, and several academic or professional references.

Depending on the chosen concentration, candidates will also need to submit a portfolio or audition materials (recordings of recent performances, scores, compositions or published writing) and may be invited to an interview with faculty. Demonstrated capacity for independent research and literacy in relevant languages or primary-source materials may be requested for some specialisms.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD in Music pursue a variety of careers across academia and the cultural sector. Many take up tenure-track faculty positions in universities and conservatoires, combining teaching with research and performance. Others work in college and university administration, curricular development, or as specialists in areas such as musicology, ethnomusicology, composition and theory.

Additional career paths include professional performance and conducting, arts administration, archival and library work, scholarly publishing and editing, community music leadership, curriculum design for schools and conservatoires, and consultancy for cultural organisations. The degree prepares graduates for roles that require high-level research skills, advanced critical thinking and specialist knowledge of music and theatre-related practices.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers doctoral students a combination of faculty mentorship, performance opportunities and research resources. The Department of Music and Theatre provides access to performance venues, rehearsal spaces, and collaborative projects across theatre and dance, supporting interdisciplinary work between scholarship, composition and stage practice.

Doctoral candidates benefit from close faculty supervision, opportunities for teaching and research assistantships, and access to UND's library collections and regional archives for primary-source research. The university’s engagement with the local and regional arts community also provides practical platforms for presenting research and creative work, fostering professional development and community outreach.