Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program

The Department of Music and Dance offers a Ph.D. in Music with a concentration in Music Education or Music Theory (note: the latter program is currently suspended). Applicants must submit a detailed resume of training and experience along with supporting documents as evidence of preparation for advanced study. Departmental examinations in music history and music theory are required.

Music Education: 

Admission Requirements:

1. Master’s degree in Music Education or Music, and Educator Licensure or licensable in the United States.
2. A minimum of 3 years of successful teaching experience in public or accredited private schools, colleges, or universities is required; however, 5 or more years is preferred.
3. Applicants must meet the admission requirements and follow the admission procedures of the Graduate School.
4. The GRE is not required.
5. Supporting materials: (a) 3 letters of recommendation, (b) resume, (c) teaching video (K-12 or collegiate class in area of expertise, 12-15 minutes in length), (d) personal statement outlining philosophy of music education and career goals (3-5 double-spaced pages in length), (e) professional writing sample (scholarly writing on a topic of interest in music education, minimum of 5 double-spaced pages in length).
6. Applicants must complete diagnostic examinations in music history and music theory prior to taking a graduate level music history or theory course.
7. An interview (in person or online) will be required. 

Music Theory: Applicants must submit tangible evidence of scholarly potential, such as a Master’s thesis or other major research papers. Additionally, a strong background in performance, music theory, general education, and foreign languages is required.

Please review additional detailed information regarding this degree and application requirements. This may be found at the department's website: umass.edu/music/ and by reviewing the department's Graduate Handbook at: www.umass.edu/music/programs_grad.php

For more information, contact: Graduate Program Director, Department of Music and Dance, 273 Bromery Center for the Arts, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, tel. (413) 545-0521, email: eknyt@music.umass.edu.