The PhD program in ethnomusicology is designed to train students who envisage a career either as professors in the academy or as cultural animators of various types in the public sector. The program provides an in-depth exploration of key intellectual issues, methodologies, and theoretical directions in the study of music as a cultural practice. Coursework and comprehensive exam preparation ensures a strong knowledge base for undertaking a major, independent research initiative.

The PhD program is normally completed in twelve to fifteen consecutive semesters of full-time study, depending on fieldwork requirements. It involves course work, comprehensive exams, a language proficiency requirement, and a thesis, which is defended in accordance with General Regulation Theses and Reports of the School of Graduate Studies.

Students must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours of coursework. If required courses have been completed at the MA level, electives may be substituted (with approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee). The required courses are:

1. Music 8001; Folklore 6030, Folklore 6070, or another social theory course approved by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee; and Folklore 7100.
2. Twelve credit hours of electives selected from courses in Music or Folklore or from relevant courses offered in another discipline (with the approval of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee). PhD students may take up to two courses (6 credit hours) in a cognate discipline.
3. Further courses beyond the minimum number may be required, depending on the background and needs of the student.

Language requirement: Reading proficiency in a language other than English that is relevant to the student’s research area. Proficiency must be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee, and the choice of language must be approved by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee. The language exam will normally be completed before the student completes their comprehensive exams.

Comprehensive examinations will be administered in a major area, minor area, and theoretical/interdisciplinary area. Bibliographies in each area will be developed by the student in consultation with their supervisory committee and will be the basis of the student’s exam questions. The written portion of the examination will be scheduled over a one-week period. The Comprehensive Examination Committee will normally meet with the student to discuss the written essays within one month of the completion of the written examination. For further information, see General Regulation Comprehensive Examinations, Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination.

Students must complete a thesis, examined and defended in accordance with General Regulation Theses and Reports of the School of Graduate Studies. A thesis proposal, including a working title, statement of purpose and research scope, outline of theoretical and methodological approach, outline of chapters, working plan, and preliminary bibliography must be approved by the Interdisciplinary Advisory Committee. The thesis shall demonstrate the candidate’s ability to carry out original and independent research, develop the necessary theoretical and methodological framework, and present the findings in a scholarly manner.