Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The PhD programme emphasises original research leading to a dissertation while providing advanced coursework to develop scholarly and analytical skills. Core elements typically include seminars in musicology and historiography, advanced music theory and analysis, research methods (qualitative, archival and quantitative approaches), and specialised topics such as ethnomusicology, popular music studies, performance practice, composition, and music cognition.

• Coursework: advanced seminars in theory, history and methodology to build a foundation for dissertation research.
• Language and research skills: training in relevant foreign languages, paleography or fieldwork methods as required by the dissertation project.
• Comprehensive/qualifying examinations: written and/or oral exams to demonstrate readiness for independent research.
• Dissertation: sustained original research under faculty supervision, culminating in a written dissertation and typically an oral defence; performance- or composition-based dissertations are possible where appropriate and approved by the committee.
• Teaching training: opportunities to gain practical experience as a teaching assistant and take courses or workshops in pedagogy and university-level instruction.
• Interdisciplinary work: options to pursue cross-disciplinary research with departments such as cognitive science, history, American studies, or engineering, reflective of Case Western Reserve's emphasis on collaboration.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold an MA or equivalent in music or a closely related field; exceptional candidates with a strong BA and substantial preparatory experience may be considered. Admissions decisions are based on an assessment of academic preparation, research potential and fit with faculty expertise.

• Academic transcripts showing relevant undergraduate and graduate coursework in music or related disciplines.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, proposed area of dissertation study and reasons for pursuing the PhD at Case Western Reserve University.
• A writing sample demonstrating analytical or research ability (for performers/composers, a portfolio and score recordings or a combination of written and recorded materials may be requested).
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to scholarly potential and preparedness for doctoral study.
• For international applicants, proof of English proficiency where required by the university.
• Funding consideration and assistantship availability may influence offers; applicants should be prepared to discuss teaching and research experience.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme typically pursue careers in higher education as university faculty and researchers, or as scholars working in research institutions, libraries and archives. The programme also prepares graduates for roles beyond academia, including positions in arts administration, museum and cultural heritage organisations, publishing and scholarly editing, music journalism, grant writing and consultancy, as well as research and development roles in music technology and interdisciplinary cultural projects.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers a research-intensive environment with faculty expertise spanning historical musicology, theory, composition and ethnomusicology, and encourages interdisciplinary collaborations across the university. Proximity to a vibrant professional music scene and cultural organisations—along with established connections to regional conservatories and ensembles—provides practical performance and research opportunities. Doctoral students benefit from library special collections, archival resources, and institutional support for research travel, as well as structured mentoring and teaching experience to develop both scholarly and pedagogical skills.