music phd uk funding

• Schools & departments

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Music

PhD by Distance online session

Edinburgh College of Art are hosting a session on the PhD by Distance option on Wednesday 22 May during the Online Learning Open Days.

Register now

Research profile

The Reid School of Music offers an exciting research environment that combines the theory, history, composition and practice of music with the scientific study of sound.

We engage with a broad range of genres and traditions, including:

• classical and popular music
• Western and non-Western music
• professional and amateur music making
• music for screen

Our research is highly interdisciplinary, with centres and groups spanning other colleges and departments within the University of Edinburgh, from physics and neuroscience to informatics, the humanities, divinity and the social sciences.

We have a large community of postgraduate students undertaking independent research in music.

Staff have a wide range of research interests, engaging in research clustered around four main themes:

History, Theory, and Sociology of Music, including 19th- and 20th-century music, popular music, aesthetics and sociology

Music and the Human Sciences, including music psychology and cognition, and music in the community

Musical Practice, including composition (electroacoustic, algorithmic, computer music and music for screen), and historical and contemporary performance research

Music, Sound and Technology, including musical acoustics and organology

Some of our current hubs of research activity include:

• Acoustics and Audio Group
• ECA Digitals
• Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments
• Institute for Music in Human and Social Development

Please consult our staff profiles on the programme website to see interests and availability. You may propose projects in any area for consideration.

Programme structure

The PhD programme comprises three years of full-time (six years part-time) research under the supervision of an expert in your chosen research topic within music. This period of research culminates in a supervised thesis of up to a maximum of 100,000 words.

Regular individual meetings with your supervisor provide guidance and focus for the course of research you are undertaking.

You will be encouraged to attend research methods courses at the beginning of your research studies.

For every year you are enrolled on programme you will be required to complete an annual progression review.

Training and support

All of our research students benefit from Edinburgh College of Art's interdisciplinary approach, and you will be assigned at least two research supervisors.

Your first/ lead supervisor would normally be based in the same subject area as your degree programme. Your second supervisor may be from another discipline within ECA or elsewhere within the University of Edinburgh, according to the expertise required. On occasion more than two supervisors will be assigned, particularly where the degree brings together multiple disciplines.

Our research culture is supported by seminars and public lecture programmes and discussion groups.

Tutoring opportunities will be advertised to the postgraduate research community, which you can apply for should you wish to gain some teaching experience during your studies. But you are not normally advised to undertake tutoring work in the first year of your research studies, while your main focus should be on establishing the direction of your research.

You are encouraged to attend courses at the Institute for Academic Development ( IAD ), where all staff and students at the University of Edinburgh are supported through a range of training opportunities, including:

• short courses in compiling literature reviews
• writing in a second language
• preparing for your viva

The Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities ( SGSAH ) offers further opportunities for development. You will also be encouraged to refer to the Vitae research development framework as you grow into a professional researcher.

You will have access to study space (some of which are 24-hour access), studios and workshops at Edinburgh College of Art’s campus, as well as University wide resources. There are several bookable spaces for the development of exhibitions, workshops or seminars. And you will have access to well-equipped multimedia laboratories, photography and exhibition facilities, shared recording space, access to recording equipment available through Bookit the equipment loan booking system.

You will have access to high quality library facilities. Within the University of Edinburgh, there are three libraries:

• the Main Library
• the ECA library
• the Art and Architecture Library

The Centre for Research Collections which holds the University of Edinburgh’s historic collections is also located in the Main Library.

The Talbot Rice Gallery is a public art gallery of the University of Edinburgh and part of Edinburgh College of Art, which is committed to exploring what the University of Edinburgh can contribute to contemporary art practice today and into the future. You will also have access to the extraordinary range and quality of exhibitions and events associated with a leading college of art situated within a world-class research-intensive university.

St Cecilia’s Hall, which is Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, also houses the Music Museum which holds one of the most important historic musical instrument collections anywhere in the world.

In addition to the University’s facilities you will also be able to access wider resources within the City of Edinburgh. These include:

• National Library of Scotland
• Scottish Studies Library and Digital Archives
• City of Edinburgh Libraries
• Historic Environment Scotland
• the National Trust for Scotland

You will also benefit from the University of Edinburgh’s extensive range of student support facilities provided, including:

• student societies
• accommodation
• wellbeing and support services

PhD by Distance option

The PhD by Distance is available to suitably qualified applicants in all the same areas as our on-campus programmes.

The PhD by Distance allows students who do not wish to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh to study for a PhD in an ECA subject area from their home country or city.

There is no expectation that students studying for an ECA PhD by Distance study mode should visit Edinburgh during their period of study. However, short-term visits for particular activities could be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• PhD by Distance at ECA

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

Normally a UK Masters degree or its international equivalent. If you do not meet the academic entry requirements, we may still consider your application on the basis of relevant professional experience.

You must also submit a research proposal; see How to Apply section for guidance.

If your research is practice-based a portfolio should also be submitted; see How to Apply section for guidance.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Additional programme costs.

No additional costs

Tuition fees

Scholarships and funding, featured funding.

• Edinburgh College of Art scholarships

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK's governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Edinburgh College of Art Postgraduate Research Team Student and Academic Support Service
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 5741
• Contact: [email protected]
• Postgraduate Research Director, Music, Dr Benedict Taylor
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4155
• Contact: [email protected]
• The University of Edinburgh
• Evolution House, 78 West Port
• Central Campus
• Programme: Music
• School: Edinburgh College of Art
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Music - 3 Years (Full-time)

Phd music - 6 years (part-time), phd music by distance - 3 years (full-time), phd music by distance - 6 years (part-time), application deadlines.

If you are applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible. All applications must be received by the deadlines listed above.

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

One of your references must be an academic reference and preferably from your most recent studies.

You should submit a research proposal that outlines your project's aims, context, process and product/outcome. Read the application guidance before you apply.

• Preparing your application - postgraduate research degrees (PDF)

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

New website!

Find out more

• Research degrees
• Doctor of Music
• Doctor of Philosophy
• AHRC Doctoral Training Studentships

Research at the RCM

• Tuition fees

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research degree enables the undertaking of a sustained original project in musicology, performance science, music education, music and material culture, performance or composition.

'The cohort of PhD students comprises music practitioners from all corners of the world. Our conversations and camaraderie, both in the classroom and outside, made me feel part of a community.'

Sureshkumar P. Sekar, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

'I am incredibly fortunate to have supervisors who are founts of knowledge, and are genuinely interested in my doctoral research.'

Sasha Kaye, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

'The multicultural background and the variety of research topics of the RCM research community has significantly enriched my perspective of musical research.'

Arianna Rigamonti, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

As a PhD student, you will work with at least two supervisors on a written dissertation of between 80,000 and 100,000 words, which may include supporting practice work if appropriate to the topic.

If you are considering applying to undertake doctoral research, your first step is to identify a member of staff with relevant expertise to support your project and capacity to act as your supervisor. An initial enquiry with a potential supervisor will help to establish if they are interested to work with you.

Find a supervisor

Supplementing your individual supervision is an array of group classes and research events that will ensure you are fully embedded in the RCM’s diverse and supportive research community.

Recent PhD projects include:

• Sara Ascenso  (2022),  Musicians’ wellbeing: a cross-sectional investigation within the framework of Positive Psychology.
• Ellen Falconer  (2022),  The case for Casella: towards new methods of understanding and interpreting the Italian Modernist pianist-composer.
• D. Keith Bowen  (2022),  The bass clarinet in bassoon form: its history, repertoire and acoustics.  

AHRC doctoral studentships through LAHP

The RCM is the only music conservatoire in London to be part of an AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership, with full studentships awarded to exceptional applicants through the London Arts and Humanities Partnership.

Find out about the AHRC studentships and LAHP

Performance and composition opportunities

With a busy events calendar of more than 500 events every year, the RCM offers a vibrant environment for research projects in performance and composition.

Doctoral students are able to participate in the RCM’s performance programme (including access to coaching for chamber music) and to perform in the College’s public programme. Doctoral students may audition for orchestral and ensemble placements in induction week every year.

A proportion of supervision hours may be taken as lessons with a performance professor, where this tuition is integral to your project. This option should be discussed with your lead supervisor during the application process, who will explore the availability of a suitable professor with the relevant Head of Faculty. Involvement in other faculty activities is by permission of the relevant Head of Faculty and can be explored with your lead supervisor during the application process.

Composition at the RCM fosters partnerships with the College's large body of gifted instrumentalists. Doctoral composers will have the opportunity to hear performances of their own works and benefit from a range of collaborations, both within the RCM and externally.

The Royal College of Music is proud to offer its students fantastic practice and performance facilities with resources to support teaching and learning. We continually improve our facilities to ensure RCM students have the best opportunities.

Explore our facilities with a video tour of the RCM

Key facilities at the RCM include:

• The Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall - our primary performance venue for orchestras and large ensembles.
• Our 400-seat Britten Theatre, home to the RCM’s thriving International  Opera School .
• A new Performance Hall, offering an alternative space for ensembles, with a retractable stage, Fazioli grand piano and variable acoustics.
• Intimate spaces for solo and chamber performance in our Performance Studio and Parry Rooms.
• Sound-proofed Amadeus Music Pods for private practice.
• A purpose-built percussion suite – you can  watch a video tour on YouTube .
• Over 160 pianos, including 60 grand pianos and 20 early keyboards, as well as organ rooms.
• A Blüthner Practice Suite which holds ten Blüthner Model A upright pianos.
• Instrument surgeries including luthier services.
• RCM Studios : a commercial-grade facility, enabling live broadcasts around the world.
• Digital Innovation Lab: advanced recording and mixing suite.
• RCM Library  with more than 200,000 scores, books and recordings in its lending collection, as well as access to more than 400 music journals.
• Recently refurbished  RCM Museum , holding more than 14,000 instruments, portraits and images, as well as a climate-controlled performance space and the associated Wolfson Centre in Music & Material Culture | Royal College of Music (rcm.ac.uk)

Find out more about RCM facilities

Career development

The RCM’s Creative Careers Centre, which is recognised internationally for its innovative approach to supporting young musicians, provides an unparalleled service to current students and recent alumni. The dedicated team partners with leading consultants, reputable arts organisations and local communities, delivering unique career-building opportunities and a direct route to the music industry.

The work of the Creative Careers Centre allows students to discover their professional identity, gain hands-on experience and new skills, develop an entrepreneurial mind-set and build a fulfilling professional portfolio.

Extensive performance and teaching opportunities are available, as well as valuable guidance on CV and biography writing, concert programming, communication skills, project management, marketing and publicity, online promotion, financial matters and how to develop a business idea.

Find out more about the Creative Careers Centre

Entry requirements

To be admitted onto the programme, you will normally need a good Master’s degree, the ability to demonstrate a close familiarity with existing theoretical and practical aspects of your topic area, a developed awareness of fundamental research skills, and ability to design and define a viable project. There should be a good match between your intended project and the expertise of your proposed supervisor at the RCM.

Performance applicants should be performing at a level that matches the entry requirements for the Artist Diploma in Performance .

The RCM welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and alternative qualifications may be considered. If your qualifications are not listed here, please contact our Admissions team , who will be happy to discuss your suitability for the programme.

English language requirements

All applicants must be able to demonstrate that their level of English language ability meets the Royal College of Music’s minimum requirements in order for their application to be accepted.

If you require a visa to study at the RCM, you must meet the English language requirements before the RCM is permitted to sponsor your visa application.

Find out about English language requirements

How to apply

Before applying.

If you are considering applying to undertake doctoral research, use our Find a supervisor list to help you find a suitable supervisor. An initial enquiry with a potential supervisor will help to establish if they are interested to work with you. General enquiries about the programme can be sent to our Head of Research.

Our Admissions team can help you with advice on fees, visas, language requirements, the online application process and other application enquiries.

Application process

Finding an expert supervisor is essential for doctoral study, so explore and contact potential supervisors on the Find a supervisor page. They will be able to advise whether they have the right expertise to support your proposed project. If a supervisor is willing to support your project, they will read and offer advice on your research proposal, and advise whether your research proposal is sufficiently developed to submit before the application deadline.

Please note that this agreement to support your application does not guarantee offer of a place, which will be dependent upon supervisory capacity and performance at interview.

For guidance on the format and content of your research proposal , please consult the following document:

RCM application deadline for candidates considering LAHP funding is 30 November 2023.

Applications received by this deadline will be assessed first for admission to the RCM, through an interview with their chosen supervisor and another member of RCM staff. If you are offered a place at the RCM, your research proposal will then be considered for submission to the LAHP studentship competition.

Please note that LAHP funding is intensely competitive, and the RCM is only able to support the strongest applicants for this scheme: an internal RCM panel (including the Head of Doctoral Programmes) will select applicants to be taken forward to the LAHP competition, and these applicants will receive mentoring on their proposals during December and January to maximise their chances of success. Applicants admitted to the RCM but not entered into the LAHP competition can apply to the RCM bursary scheme in May.

RCM application deadline for other candidates is 15 March 2024.

Applications received between 1 December and 15 March will be considered as they are received. Applicants will be considered for the RCM Bursary scheme in May.

Submitting an application

You will need to:

• Create an account on the RCM online submission portal.
• Complete the Doctoral application form and upload your research proposal and your supporting documents.
• Pay the application fee of £100.
• Arrange for your referees to email their references direct to [email protected] .
• Promising applicants will be invited to interview, normally within two weeks of the application being received. Interviews normally take place online.

If you are interested in pursuing your research interests at the RCM, use our Find a supervisor list to help you find a suitable supervisor.

If you have any questions about the admissions process please contact our Admissions team, who will be happy to help you.

Professor Robert Adlington

Head of Research

[email protected]

Charlotte Rutherford

Doctoral Programmes Administrator

Doctoral Admissions and general enquiries

[email protected]

Fees & funding

Read the Royal College of Music's latest QAA review report

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• Department of Music
• Postgraduate study

Fees and funding

Scholarships .

Student-led projects.

Details about the competition

The deadline for 2024 entry is now live.

The Charles Allan Bryars scholarship is earmarked for doctoral research related to the organ. Eligibility criteria: to support the current study of postgraduate organists, who through their research are contributing to organ-related scholarship in the department and beyond. 

£17,000 towards course fees.

Details and apply for 2024 entry.

The Department offers continuation tuition fee scholarships for current PhD students via the Gladys Hall Scholarship scheme. These awards are allocated on a competitive basis.

Value: £TBC

Eligibility: Students who are self-funded can apply for this award, including full-time, part-time, UK or international continuing PhD students within the Department of Music. Anyone can receive a maximum of two awards across the duration of their studies. The awards are not available for students in their fourth year (seventh/eighth year for part-time students), or to students who are beyond this point having been granted an extension. If part-time, the award will be spread across two years or halved if taken up for only one year.

Frequency: one award is available, maximum tenure two years. Duties: rehearsals and performances in solo roles with Escafeld Chorale. Eligibility: All current Music students at the University of Sheffield. Assessment: Audition.

Escafeld Chorale Sheffield    

Post : Senior Organ Scholar . Duties:  rehearsals and choral services at Sheffield Cathedral; residency in Sheffield throughout the choir terms. Value:  £7000  Eligibility:  All applicants holding an offer to study at the University of Sheffield. Enquiries:  [email protected]

This scheme provides academically excellent Chinese students with the opportunity to study for a PhD at the University of Sheffield. The scholarships are supported jointly by the  China Scholarship Council  and the University of Sheffield.

More information

Many charities, foundations and trusts provide funding for postgraduate study, from small grants to full scholarships. Some are in specific subject areas while others have more general eligibility criteria. Please see our  external funding page  for a list of funding bodies and search sites which may help you to find other scholarships.

PhD projects are available throughout the year, many of which are funded. Currently available projects are advertised in the  PhD projects directory .

Loans  are available to doctoral students studying postgraduate research courses.

Please note that international students are eligible to apply for many of the PhD scholarships listed above. Check the eligibility criteria for each section to see if you can apply.

Related information

Postgraduate research scholarships FAQs

Search for PhD opportunities at Sheffield and be part of our world-leading research.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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Discover more about music

PhD Music (Musicology) / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page
• Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and 
• Master's degree in a relevant subject – with an overall average of  65% or above, a minimum mark of 65% in your dissertation and no mark below 55% (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online  

Please ensure you include all  required supporting documents  at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered. 

Application Deadlines 

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by  12 January 2024. 

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self–funding, you must submit your application before the below deadlines to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these dates have passed. 

• For September 2024 entry:  30 June 2024 
• For January 2025 entry:  30 September 2024 

Programme options

Programme overview.

• The UK's Number 1 Department for Music (Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024).
• Develop your research at one of the UK's leading research centres for Music Studies, with expertise spanning historical musicology, ethnomusicology, jazz, popular music, and performance studies.
• Benefit from access to experts in a range of research areas in Musicology and related interdisciplinary fields.

We will be conducting our Humanities PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts. 

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £4,786 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £2,393

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Please note for the majority of projects where experimentation requires further resource: higher fee bands (where quoted) will be charged rather than the base rate for supervision, administration and computational costs. The fees quoted above will be fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for UK/EU students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit: postgraduate fees . Always contact the department if you are unsure which fee applies to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including AHRC NWCDTP and School of Arts, Languages and Cultures studentships is 12 January 2024. 

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.  

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• AHRC North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership (NWCDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Arts, Languages and Cultures PhD Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Arts, Languages and Cultures New Generation PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Harry Clough Bursary (Music) 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• Myrtle McMyn Bursary (Music) 2024 Entry
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)

Contact details

See: About us

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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Duration: 4 years full time

Institution code: R72

Campus: Egham

UK fees * : £4,786

International/EU fees ** : £23,400

The Department of Music is consistently rated as one of the top research departments in the UK with an international reputation of high distinction. We offer postgraduate research opportunities in a wide range of musical disciplines, with world-leading expertise in historical musicology, theory and analysis, performance as research, composition and ethnomusicology.

As an alternative, or precursor, to PhD study, we also offer MPhil and MA by Research (assessed entirely on the research dissertation: max. 40,000 words) options.

From time to time, we make changes to our courses to improve the student and learning experience. If we make a significant change to your chosen course, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Research facilities and environment

We offer a strong and highly supportive, collegiate atmosphere in which you will be offered discipline-specific research training, have opportunities to present your research at regular PGR colloquia, and gain experience of teaching through working as an assistant to a member academic staff on delivering and assessing aspects of the BMus curriculum.

Your progress will be monitored through supervision reports and will be reviewed annually, with an upgrade viva which, if successful, moves you onto the PhD programme.

Entry requirements

A good first degree and usually a Masters degree in Music, or in a related subject if the topic of research is interdisciplinary.

English language requirements

All teaching at Royal Holloway is in English. You will therefore need to have good enough written and spoken English to cope with your studies right from the start.

The scores we require

• IELTS: 6.5 overall. Writing 6.5. No other subscore lower than 5.5.
• Pearson Test of English: 61 overall. Writing 69. No other subscore lower than 51.
• Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE): ISE III.
• TOEFL iBT: 88 overall, with Reading 18 Listening 17 Speaking 20 Writing 26.

Country-specific requirements

For more information about country-specific entry requirements for your country please see  here .

Many of our PhD graduates in Music have moved into post-doctoral research positions and other academic opportunities. Others have moved into portfolio careers as creative artists, performers, teachers, and/or researchers.

A PhD in Music can also lead to non-academic careers, as employees recognise the transferable skills and personal qualities required to be successful at this high level of scholarship.

Fees & funding

Home (UK) students tuition fee per year*: £4,786

EU and international students tuition fee per year**: £23,400

Other essential costs***: There are no additional costs greater than £50 per item.

…How do I pay for it? Find out more about   funding options,   including loans, grants,   scholarships   and bursaries. 

* and ** These tuition fees apply to students enrolled on a full-time basis in the academic year 2024/25.

* Please note that for research courses, we adopt the minimum fee level recommended by the UK Research Councils for the Home   tuition fee. Each year, the fee level is adjusted in line with inflation (currently, the measure used is the Treasury GDP deflator). Fees displayed here are therefore subject to change and are usually confirmed in the spring of the year of entry.   For more information on the Research Council Indicative Fee please see the   UKRI website.

** This figure is the fee for EU and international students starting a degree in the academic year 2024/25.   

Royal Holloway reserves the right to increase all postgraduate tuition fees annually, based on the UK’s Retail Price Index (RPI). Please therefore be aware that tuition fees can rise during your degree (if longer than one year’s duration), and that this also means that the overall cost of studying the course part-time will be slightly higher than studying it full-time in one year. For further information, please see our  terms and conditions .

***   These estimated costs relate to studying this particular degree at Royal Holloway during the 2024/25 academic year and are included as a guide. Costs, such as accommodation, food, books and other learning materials and printing, have not been included. 

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• Full-time: Up to 4 years
• Part-time: Up to 8 years
• Start date: Multiple available
• UK fees: £5,100
• International fees: £21,500

Research overview

Invest your time and follow your passion to create original research. We know the commitment you will making so you'll get expert supervision from our internationally recognised researchers. We encourage you to identify a potential supervisor to discuss your proposal with as early as possible.

Research areas

We have particular strengths in four core areas.

Music, space and place

• Music and musical culture in a specific time and place
• Transnational and transcultural exchange
• Urban geographies and mobility

Music-text-image

• How music interacts with other art forms
• Applying and developing methodologies from other disciplines

Musical creativity and community

• Musical creativity
• Development of communities and networks

Music, politics and identity

• How music has contributed to local, national and international political change
• How music shapes individual identities

Explore all our research themes and projects in detail

Performance opportunities

There's plenty of opportunities to play and perform :

• individually and as part of ensembles
• on-campus and as part of the wider Nottingham musical scene

Your department

• Department of Music website
• The department was ranked 7th among the Russell Group universities for research outputs in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.

" The music I grew up with and enjoy listening to was not part of the music history I was studying. So when I did a PhD, I decided to move away from opera (which I also like) and focus on musicals. "

Hannah Robbins, Assistant Professor in Popular Music and Director of Black Studies

Course content

Normally taken full-time over three years or part-time over six years (with an optional extra year for writing up, submission and viva).

• complete a written thesis of up to 100,000 words, with expert support and advice from your academic supervisors
• take a verbal examination (viva voce) where you explain your project in depth to an examination panel.

Example recent theses in the department

Their Dreams and Ours: Britten, Film, and 'The Turn of the Screw' - Peter Auker

Intermezzo under Hapsburg rule (1707-1734): new theories of composition and musical meaning - Eric Boaro

Changing the record: reassessing effectiveness and value in prison music projects - Sarah Doxat-Pratt

A critical and reflective commentary on a portfolio of compositions (audio) - Angela Slater

A range of optional music modules are available in consultation with your supervisory team. Examples include:

Explore a range of musical cultures beyond the traditional canon of Western art music.

Introduce the fields of ethnomusicology and popular music studies. You'll look at different:

• theories of music

from a diverse range of cultures and communities.

We delve into musical traditions and popular culture from around the world, including case studies from Asia, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Pacific.

As well as ethnomusicological theory and method you'll get an overview of key issues and debates in Anglophone popular music. You will also develop critical skills for the analysis of musical practice in diverse contexts.

This module is worth 10 credits.

This module centres on participation in primary school music teaching in partnership with the Nottingham Music Hub. Students attend weekly in-school sessions throughout the autumn and spring semesters, assisting with Nottingham First Access mentoring (In Harmony and/or Whole Class Ensemble) or contributing to the direction of post-first-access ensembles. In the spring semester, fortnightly classes will supplement the in-school experience with sessions on topics such as: the national music plan and music hubs; different teaching and learning styles; Musical Futures; musical inclusion and teaching in inner-city schools; and special educational needs.

See our BA Music year two and three modules for more examples of modules available to you.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

Your application should include a 1000-3000 word research proposal , containing a proposed title, an aim, objectives, methods, summary of content and outline bibliography.

We encourage you to get in touch with  Dr Nick Baragwanath  about your research proposal before submitting an application. They may be able to help you with your proposal and offer support in finding funding.

Supervisors

You will have a minimum of two supervisors who will offer expert guidance, support and feedback throughout your research. 

Joint supervision and collaboration may be available from partner universities for Midlands4Cities funded students.

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Programme

Midlands4Cities (M4C) PhD students benefit from a high quality package of:

• enhanced support and training
• expert supervision
• excellent networking opportunities

You must apply for a place at Nottingham before submitting your M4C application.

Thanks to the generosity of our alumni and partners we sometimes have specific funding available for Music postgraduate students.

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

The department's lively research culture offers the chance to hear visiting scholars from elsewhere in the UK and from overseas. Events include:

• regular research seminars
• professional concerts
• conferences

Research in progress

These sessions for staff and postgraduates give you the space to present your developing work in a friendly and constructive environment. They also allow you to broaden your knowledge of the subject and gain a better sense of how research develops as part of an interactive process.

There are numerous opportunities to play and perform for both players and singers including:

• University-wide orchestra and choir
• Over 20 dedicated ensembles covering all types of music
• A lively and wide-ranging musical culture in the city of Nottingham.

Find out more about performance opportunities

Research centres

The department hosts two research centres that you are encouraged to get involved in. They offer opportunities for research, performance and event support.

Nottingham Forum for Artistic Research (NottFAR)

NottFAR features performances and composers from our staff and high profile guests from around the UK and abroad. Performances take part both on-campus and at major venues in Nottingham such as the  Royal Concert Hall and Rough Trade . 

Centre for Music on Stage and Screen (MOSS)

Promotes the interaction of history, theory and practice in the study of opera, ballet, melodrama, film, video and other multi-media performance genres. It encourages multi-disciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration.

Midlands4Cities students

If you are funded through the Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership you will complete a portfolio of research training, devised in consultation with your supervisors and Head of Postgraduate Studies.

Language learning

You can make full use of the  Language Centre  facilities for both research-specific learning and personal interest.

Find out more about our  postgraduate support and community .

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Graduate centres

Our graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates.

Each space has areas for:

• socialising
• computer work
• kitchen facilities

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

• academic and disability support
• childcare services
• counselling service
• faith support
• financial support
• mental health and wellbeing support
• visa and immigration advice
• welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

• international students
• black and minority ethnic students
• students who identify as women
• students with disabilities
• LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

University park campus.

University Park Campus  covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

Record, compose, research and experiment

• Djanogly Recital Hall  – acoustically designed, 200-seat hall
• Rehearsal Hall  – performances, workshops and teaching
• Recording studio  - industry standard with adjacent live room
• Digital composition studio  – iMacs and specialist technology
• Practice rooms  - 13 purpose-built rooms with pianos
• Denis Arnold music library - specialist collections

We also have strong links with  venues and spaces  in the rest of Nottingham.

Lakeside Arts

The on-campus Lakeside Arts Centre has an exciting and diverse programme of performances including classical, choral, jazz, folk, 'global', dance, and many other excursions into sound!

Discount tickets available to all students along with work experience and volunteering opportunities.

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Our graduates go on to many different careers. Examples include:

• Music management
• Programme controller
• Civil Service Fast Stream
• Accountancy
• Airline pilot

Our recent PhD students have gone on to academic positions at the following universities:

• Pavia (Italy)
• Open University

50% of postgraduates from SCHOOL/COURSE NAME secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £25,000.*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022 . The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on data from graduates who completed a full-time postgraduate degree with home fee status and are working full-time within the UK.

The Department enjoys a close relationship with a number of performance venues in the local area, providing opportunities for public engagement and real world experience.

Related courses

Music composition phd, music performance phd, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• 7th among the Russell Group universities for research outputs
• 80% of our publications, compositions and recordings rated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'
• 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
• 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
• 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 24 October 2023 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

Music Research MPhil/PhD

Key information

The department has an international reputation for music research in history, theory, anthropology/ethnography, composition, and creative practice. We are particularly strong in film music, jazz, opera, performance studies, Western music from the 12 th century to the present, and the music of Latin America, the Middle East, South and South East Asia, and West Africa.

For 2024/25 entry, the Music Department is only accepting applications for PhDs in Eighteenth-Century Music History and Composition .

For 2025/26 entry, we will be welcoming applications for PhDs in all supervisory areas.

PhDs can be co-supervised with other arts & humanities or social sciences departments at King's, or with a department at another of our London Arts & Humanities Partnership (LAHP) partners ( www.lahp.ac.uk ).

As a department, we believe in the complete equality of all areas of music research, and welcome students from all backgrounds, especially those who are currently under-represented in musicology, ethnomusicology, performance, and composition.

Department of Music – jointly ranked 4th in the UK with Film (REF 2021). 100% per cent of the research impact and research environment was rated either ‘world leading’ (4*) or ‘internationally excellent’ (3*).

Current number of academic staff: 14.

Current number of research students: 19 FT and 15 PT.

Recent publications:

• Picture a Day Like This [opera] (George Benjamin).
• The Influence of Technology on Performance: Classical Perspectives (Amy Blier-Carruthers).
• The Sense of Sound: Musical Meaning in France, 1260-1330 (Emma Dillon).
• Thinking on our Feet: A Somatic Enquiry into a Haydn Minuet (Joseph Fort).
• Paris Blues: African American Music and French Popular Culture, 1920–1960 (Andy Fry).
• Sovereign Feminine: Music and Gender in Eighteenth-Century Germany (Matthew Head).
• That Man Stephen Ward [chamber opera] (Thomas Hyde).
• Contemporary Carioca: Technologies of Mixing in a Brazilian Music Scene (Frederick Moehn).
• Songs of Sorrow, for baritone and piano (Edward Nesbit).
• Music and Musicians in Late Mughal India: Histories of the Ephemeral, 1748–1858 (Katherine Schofield).
• Music and Citizenship (Martin Stokes).
• Listening for Realism in Charpentier’s Louise (Flora Willson).

Current research projects:

UKRI Major Research Projects:

• Beyond 1932—Rethinking Musical Modernity in the Middle East and North Africa;
• Musical Lives—Towards an Historical Anthropology of French Song, 1100–1300;
• Dissemination, Ownership, and Reading of Music in Early Modern Europe.

British Academy:

• Sonic Diasporas —Technology and Selfhood in New York Musical Imaginaries, c. 1935–41.
• The Invention of Lightness, Or, Musical Politics of 1920s Italy

Joint PhDs available: Opportunities exist to gain a joint PhD with Hong Kong University or with King's own Department of Digital Humanities.

Our department forms part of the London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP), which offers Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) studentships ( www.lahp.ac.uk )

Head of Department: Dr Katherine Schofield

Head of PhD Programme: Dr Flora Willson

• How to apply
• Fees or Funding

UK Tuition Fees 2023/24

Full time tuition fees:

£5,820 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

£5,820 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research with University of Hong Kong)

Part time tuition fees: £2,910 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

International Tuition Fees 2023/24

£22,900 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

£22,900 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research with University of Hong Kong)

Part time tuition fees: £11,450 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

UK Tuition Fees 2024/25

£6,168 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

£6,168 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research with University of Hong Kong)

Part time tuition fees: £3,084 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

International Tuition Fees 2024/25

£24,786 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

£24,786 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research with University of Hong Kong)

Part time tuition fees: £12,393 per year (MPhil/PhD, Music Research)

These tuition fees may be subject to additional increases in subsequent years of study, in line with King’s terms and conditions.

• Study environment

Base campus

Strand Campus

Located on the north bank of the River Thames, the Strand Campus houses King's College London's arts and sciences faculties.

The department has an international reputation for music research in the areas of history, theory, anthropology/ethnography, composition, and creative practice. We are particularly strong in film music, jazz, opera, performance studies, Western music from the 12 th century to the present, and the music of Latin America, the Middle East, South and South East Asia, and West Africa. In our PhD programmes in Music Research you will write a thesis of max. 100,000 words; in Creative Practice write a thesis of c. 50,000 words alongside a creative practice portfolio; and in Composition create a portfolio of compositions with technical commentary.

Please note that King’s does not have a doctoral pathway purely in performance (e.g. a DMA); performers should consider whether the creative practice pathway might suit their abilities and interests.

Prospective students are welcome to contact any academic member of staff whose field of research interests them. Alternatively, applicants may discuss their plans in the first instance with the Head of department Dr Katherine Schofield or the PhD programme lead Dr Flora Willson.

Joint PhD Opportunities

The joint PhD in Music with Hong Kong University affords students the opportunity to work with leaders in the fields of Ethnomusicology, Musicology and Composition. We invite applications on any area of research represented by faculty interests. We also draw your attention to areas of overlapping interest among faculty in the departments of Music at King's College London and University of Hong Kong: composition; 19th-century music studies; music and film. Students in the joint PhD programme will benefit from one-to-one supervision with a number of scholars working in their field. The programme also offers them access to the lively intellectual communities in these two world-class centres for music research, as well as to all the cultural riches on offer in the cities of London and Hong Kong.

Postgraduate training

The London Arts and Humanities Partnership offers a full and varied programme of training events to King's students, whether or not they are recipients of LAHP doctoral scholarships.

• Entry requirements

Find a supervisor

Search through a list of available supervisors.

Accommodation

Discover your accommodation options and explore our residences.

Connect with a King’s Advisor

Want to know more about studying at King's? We're here to help.

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King's is right in the heart of the capital.

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Course detail

Entry requirements.

• Fees & funding
• Study & career progression

Our PhDs are supported by staff who are engaged in a range of specialisms that combine practice-led research and advanced professional practice with theoretical and technical analysis.

We have expert supervisory capability across a wide variety of topics and issues. We welcome applications for doctoral research in both traditional and progressive disciplines including:

• audio technology
• cultural studies
• composition
• festival studies
• gender, diversity and creativity within musical areas
• historical studies
• musical aesthetics and analysis
• music pedagogy
• music performance
• record production and mixing
• theatre and performance practice.

See a list of potential PhD supervisors and read about their expertise in the 'Supervisors' section lower down this page.

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Music with us?

What our students say…

A strong supervisory team, who were critical yet building, together with ample support from administrative staff got me through this rewarding journey - combined with an overall a sense of camaraderie with fellow doctoral students.

World-leading Research

The University of West London has been recognised by the Government's Research Excellence Framework (REF) for its exceptional research work.

Research Repository -Music

The Repository is a digital archive of research output by our academics and research students.

You will have a supervisory team made up of a Director of Studies with expertise in your chosen field, a further supervisor and, where appropriate, an additional adviser. 

Your research will be judged through the presentation of a thesis or artefact and a viva voce for academic assessment. We provide a stimulating and supportive environment where you will benefit from: 

• peer feedback and discussion   
• a series of master-classes and lectures from industry figures   
• support by a supervisor and second supervisor suited to your project. 

About PhD study

This course is available for you to study either on a full-time or part-time basis and you have the flexibility to switch should you need to.

A PhD is founded on independent research. You will undertake a systematic and in-depth exploration of your chosen topic to produce a substantial body of knowledge and make an original and important contribution to the subject area.

We offer theoretical PhDs and in addition – requiring submission of a significant practical artefact – both practice-oriented PhDs, and a practice-based DMus pathway designed for candidates with existing professional experience. 

The support provided by your supervisory team will be vital to your student experience and scholarly advancement.  You and your supervisors will have regular one-to-one meetings which will provide you with opportunities to develop your research topic and discuss your progress.

Our research record

LCM has delivered numerous funding-council projects and staff have founded and led several global research networks for two decades. In REF2021, nearly 70% of our submissions were graded as ‘internationally excellent’ or ‘world-leading’. LCM also hosts the incredible Pete Townshend vintage synthesizer collection.

Also see individual staff profiles.

Based in the heart of Ealing, west London, you can make use of the excellent transport links to travel to the the capital or further afield - ideal for attending research meetings and networking events.

Got a question?

If you would like guidance or more information about studying for a research degree, you can contact Professor David Osbon .

To enable you to enhance your professional profile, we support you throughout your research degree by:

• providing research seminars
• organising doctoral events and activities
• facilitating networking and collaboration opportunities
• encouraging and supporting publication and dissemination of your research
• offering opportunities to gain teaching expertise and experience.

We provide structured research training, expert supervision, and an environment where you can discuss your research with other PhD students and researchers.

We run seminars in research methods from the Graduate Centre, as well as an ongoing series of events and activities organised by Schools and Colleges. Specialist help with academic English for students for whom English is not their first language is available.

• Our specialist Music Technology Facilities include 18 professionally designed studios, nine live rooms, 10 analogue consoles, five professional-standard live-room recording spaces, and a comprehensive range of microphones, backlines and more.
• Performance spaces: Our fully equipped performance spaces include Lawrence Hall, a 200-seat black box studio theatre.
• Production studios: We have four black box production rooms featuring performance dance floors, ballet barres, wall mirrors and ¾ drapes.
• One-to-one teaching pods: We have five acoustically isolated teaching pods featuring Roland and Korg digital pianos and mirrors.
• Music performance rooms: All music performance rooms feature drums and backline plus PA support.
• Basement practice rooms: 12 instrumental practice rooms with Steinway pianos. Three percussion practice and teaching rooms. Percussion rooms feature Pearl kits with recording and playback systems.
• Media Resource Centre: At our Media Resource Centre you'll find extensive portable audio recording systems, including up to 24-track digital HD recording and portable Focusrite RedNet systems.
• The Paul Hamlyn Library: The Paul Hamlyn Library provides an extensive range of books, journals and digital resources, PC and Mac workstations and a variety of study spaces. Find out more about what the  Paul Hamlyn Library has to offer .

We contribute to national and international initiatives and promote collaboration and networking opportunities. We also encourage and support you to publish and disseminate your research in academic journals and via presenting papers at conferences.

We run an annual conference for doctoral students, where you are encouraged to present a paper about your research. As well as being an opportunity to discuss your work with other students, the conference is a chance to gain valuable experience in presenting your research and participating in open discussions with academic peers.

You will also find other opportunities such as postgraduate student seminars and forums within your specific subject area.

Once you start a PhD course at UWL, you become part of our research community. You will have access to a postgraduate common room, located at our Ealing campus on St Mary’s Road, where you will meet fellow researchers from other subject disciplines offering scope for collaborations or simply to discuss ideas, allowing you to be part of a vibrant research environment.

• Requirements: UK
• Requirements: International

The minimum entry requirements for a research degree are:

• a good first degree (First Class or Upper Second Class), or equivalent qualification in a relevant field
• a Masters Degree (MA, MSc, MBA or MRes) with Merit, or equivalent postgraduate or research experience.

We look for students with:

• a passion for their chosen subject.

You will also have a well thought through and persuasive proposal.

• Competence in written and spoken English is a pre-requisite for entrance to this programme. An IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6.5 (with no element under 6.0).

Fees & funding

• Funding: UK
• Funding: International

The fee above is the cost per year of your course.

If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year. If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.

Government regulation does affect tuition fees and the fees listed for courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are subject to change.

If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

Funding for postgraduate students usually comes from one or more of a range of key sources:

• research councils
• charities and trust funds, including those funded by the UK government
• higher Education institutions
• overseas governments (international students only)
• professional and career development loans
• self-funding (including family funds).

Find out more about funding opportunities. Examples of most of these types of funding are included on the postgraduate studentships website , (with the exception of funding you may be able to obtain from your employer and self-funding).

Bursaries and scholarships

We offer generous bursaries and scholarships to make sure your aspirations are your only limit. See our PhD scholarships , scholarships and bursaries .

For any overseas students, your first port of call should be grant-awarding bodies in your own country (eg The Ministry / Department of Education) and your local (or nearest) office of the British Council.

The British Council manage a small number of international studentship grants in some countries and should be able to tell you what other awards may be available to you - they also produce the Sources of funding for international students guide.

Supervisors

Professor robert sholl.

Dr Giselle Garcia

Professor Simon Zagorski-Thomas

Dr Cathy Sloan

Associate Professor Gavin Baker

Dr Litha Efthymiou

Dr Danny Hagan

Dr Isla Hall

Dr Tim Hughes

Dr Remy Martin

Dr Sara McGuinness

Professor Nicholas McKay

Professor David Osbon

Professor Justin Paterson

Dr Liz Pipe

Dr Alejandro Postigo

Dr Daniel Pratt

Dr Angela Shepherd

Dr Simone Spagnolo

Dr Paula Wolfe

Study & career progression

A PhD degree in Music  - the highest academic qualification, based on the advanced study and independent research, opens up an array of career opportunities both in academia and within  the music industries. 

Many students go on to pursue an academic career, following the PhD with postdoctoral study, then a fellowship or lectureship.

During your PhD, you will also be learning transferable core skills that apply to jobs both in and out of academia, including:

• written and oral communication
• research and information management
• public speaking   
• project management
• critical thinking
• collaboration
• analysis and problem-solving
• conflict resolution
• negotiation.

By the end of your research degree you will be able to articulately apply these skills to enhance your career path.

How to apply

• How to apply: UK
• How to apply: International

To apply for one of our research courses, click the green 'apply now' link shown below to complete an online application form. You will need to attach the following documentation to your online application form:

• research proposal outline (5000 words maximum)
• transcript of your highest qualification.

The research proposal outline, or statement of research interests, enables us to assess your suitability for higher degree work including:

• viability of the topic as a research study
• the most appropriate supervisor(s) to be appointed.

Click here  for more information on applying for a PhD.

Apply for this course

Next steps after making your application.

We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.

In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an  open day  or join a campus tour .

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Visit us and see for yourself

Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.

We're here to help

Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on [email protected].

To apply for one of our research courses, click the green 'apply now' link shown below to complete an online application form.  You will need to attach the following documentation to your online application form:

• research proposal outline

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* Modern universities  - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

** The National Student Survey 2022 and 2023 -   Based on an average of all 27 questions. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

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Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.

PhD Music Research Programmes (W300)

The Music doctoral programme offers excellent research facilities and expert supervision in a wide variety of subjects, including musicology, composition and performance. Our range of staff expertise is among the broadest in the country, embracing repertories from medieval music to the twenty-first century.

Introducing your degree

Make a contribution to the world of music through an PhD Music Research Programme degree at the University of Southampton. You can select your research topic from a wide range, allowing you to develop advanced expertise in your area of choice. You will be supervised by our leading professionals, ensuring you gain the tools and knowledge to conduct your research to the best of your ability. Apply for the PhD Music Research Programme today and enhance your musical potential.

Programme Overview

Our PhD supervisors are specialists in music history from the Middle Ages to the present, global music history, opera studies, theory and analysis, music and gender, music and heritage studies, arts and cultural management, music technology (including Web Science and artificial intelligence), and ethnomusicology. We welcome PhD applications in performance studies (including critical editing, performance practice and reception theory) and all kinds of composition, including film music, electronic music and music-based performance art. See our  staff pages for more information about individual supervisors and their expertise.

Career opportunities are wide ranging and varied.  Opportunities exist as a member of a research team in academia, leading to future leadership positions within an academic context.  The nature of the generic and discipline-specific skills obtained during your study make your experience and skills attractive to a range of organisations post qualification.

Doctoral Programme Director:  

Dr Erin Johnson-Williams Email:   [email protected]

www.southampton.ac.uk/music/

View the doctoral programme profile for this course

Application process and required supporting documents

• University online application including a personal statement
• research proposal
• 2 references
• English language (if relevant)
• 1 sample of written work – either a master’s thesis, or a substantial essay (this can include current coursework) of approximately 5000 words, and/or published work i.e. Journal article, book chapter, CD liner notes
• Performance PhD : As above, but in addition a sample of recorded solo or accompanied performance totalling 20-25 minutes.

Candidates are advised to contact prospective supervisors with the subject of their proposed research prior to application.

Contact for postgraduate enquiries: Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 7433 [email protected] www.southampton.ac.uk/music

Duration: Up to 4 years (full-time); up to 7 years (part-time)

Start date: Normally September and January each year

Closing date: 3 months before start date (also dependent on funding body deadlines); an application decision cannot be guaranteed in time for programme commencement unless a complete application is received in good time - students requiring a visa to study should also allow extra time for visa processes; informal enquiries welcome at any time

Other University of Southampton sites

• Music research
• Music staff

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements.

Academic entry requirements : First or upper second class honours degree and normally Masters at Merit* level, or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University in Music.

(*Merit 60%-69%, Distinction 70%+)

Equivalent Qualifications: We will also consider candidates who do not have a Masters degree if they can demonstrate; outstanding undergraduate performance including evidence of preparedness for research (e.g. first class honours and 75% or more in the dissertation in a relevant subject); or appropriate professional experience which may include performance and composition and be able to demonstrate advanced writing skills; or other appropriate qualifications.

English language entry requirements: PhD in Musicology: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in all components, PhD in Composition or Performance: IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component., or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University.

Selection process

Selection process: Online application and interview

Applications will be assessed under the following

• Evidence of general academic aptitude
• Preparedness or promise for doctoral research
• Quality of the research project proposal
• Fit with Southampton's research expertise

Applicant Quality: Your application will be judged against the following criteria: 

• it provides evidence that you meet our entry requirements
• it demonstrates your personal suitability and commitment to undertake Doctoral study
• it provides supportive references that indicate your suitability to undertake a PhD
• it presents a well-focused and high quality research proposal which indicates potential to contribute original research to the discipline
• it demonstrates critical awareness of the scholarly field to which the research will contribute, and appropriate methods to carry out this work
• it may strengthen your application if you can demonstrate genuine interest in working with a named academic in the department 

Personal Statement: Use your Personal Statement to provide additional information relevant to your application. This should include the following:

• outline your reasons for wishing to conduct postgraduate research in your chosen area
• explain how your proposed research matches the research environment and supervisory expertise offered by Music at Southampton
• reflect on how your education, skills, and experience will equip you for PhD study and to undertake your planned research
• indicate details of any other achievements/interests
• indicate any special circumstances pertaining to the academic record
• tell us what you hope to get from the programme

This page contains specific entry requirements for this course. Find out about equivalent entry requirements and qualifications for your country.

Programme Structure

Typical course content.

We have an active research community with about 40 postgraduate students. There is a dedicated Music Postgraduate Room in the department, to which all postgraduates have 24-hour access. This provides study spaces for up to 20 students at any one time, networked computers with standard office and specialist music software, printing and scanning facilities, and storage space. Our computing laboratory and electronic studios are also available for postgraduate use. Students find a supportive and friendly research environment, and we encourage you to take part in the academic community within the University and in the broader context of the discipline, both nationally and internationally.

The PhD by Research programme has no modules per semester. Instead, it is an entirely research-oriented programme in which students conduct original research under the guidance of their supervisors. We also supply a range of training programmes, aimed at helping you to complete your thesis or composition portfolio and developing skills for presenting and publishing your work. Our regular research seminars and presentations, including the Hartley Residency series, provide opportunities to meet other researchers and enrich your thinking.

Fees & funding

Tuition fees.

Fees for postgraduate research degrees vary across the University. All fees are listed for UK, EU and international full-time and part-time students alphabetically by course name.

Please be aware that UK/EU column only apply to UK students.

Scholarships, bursaries, sponsorships or grants may be available to support you through your course. Funding opportunities available to you are linked to your subject area and/or your country of origin. These can be from the University of Southampton or other sources.

Learning & Teaching

A postgraduate research degree from Humanities at Southampton offers you the wide and varied experience you should expect from a leading research university. We are committed to providing a relevant, modern and above all enjoyable environment in which to undertake your research project, along with the opportunity to gain the additional skills and understanding you need to start a career in any number of areas including academia.

How will you learn?

On a postgraduate research programme is led by academic staff, allowing you to engage with, and contribute to, the world-leading research carried out in Humanities at Southampton. Independent learning is the main element of undertaking postgraduate research, but we will guide you through the research experience by providing not only a dedicated supervisory team who will be on hand to help you to shape and direct your research project, but also a programme of research and transferrable skills training to prepare you not only for the project, but also for the career path you may wish to follow after its completion. If there are gaps in your knowledge when you start with us, you can join our taught masters’ students on one of their courses to provide you with the additional grounding you need.

We view our doctoral candidates as early stage researchers, so expect you to get involved with the wider research environment within, and external to, the university. Our disciplines have many unique and exciting additional opportunities for you engage with: such as visiting Chawton House Library, the former home of Jane Austen; studying the Broadlands Archive, containing the papers of Palmerston and Mountbatten; being part of one of our student-led interdisciplinary reading groups; and the chance to hear from visiting speakers from international universities who are frequent part of our Research Centre-led lecture and seminar series. You will have many opportunities to give papers and presentations, receiving feedback from peers and colleagues on how you can improve your work, maximise its effectiveness and gain recognition for your efforts.

Students on the Distance Learning pathway have electronic access to learning resources (e.g. Blackboard; VLE; EAP Toolkit, an online English for Academic Purposes self-access resource) as well as additional support from the learning technologists based in the Faculty’s eLanguages unit. The Hartley Library offers an extensive and growing collection of e-books and electronic articles (JSTORE).

The goal of a PhD is a final thesis of 75,000 words. Assessment methods for progress relating to your research thesis will include oral presentations, written assignments, research proposal and progression reviews including Confirmation of PhD Registration. Summative assessment of the research thesis will include a viva voce examination with internal and external examiners.

Professional development

A PhD will enable you to further develop the key skills employers seek such as: time management; problem solving; team work; deadline and project management; cultural awareness; working independently; using your initiative; relationship-building; critical thinking and research analysis. Above all, you will learn to communicate your ideas and enthusiasm for your research to a wide range of audiences.

Study locations

Highfield campus

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Music Doctoral Scholarships

Award description.

The College of Arts and Law is offering a number of Music scholarships of varying values to students taking our Doctoral programmes:

• Music PhD (specialising in Composition, Musicology or Performance)

Full details of all Music programmes are available on our postgraduate study page .

Value of Award

Varying awards, including fees only scholarships.

Eligibility Criteria

These awards are open to prospective UK, EU and international students, studying campus-based Doctoral programmes in the Department of Music. Applications for funding can only be considered alongside an application to study.

Current PhD students are eligible to apply for an Midlands4Citites studentship, providing that at the start of the award they have at least 50% (excluding writing-up) of their period of study remaining.

How to Apply

Applications for all Doctoral Scholarships for the College of Arts and Law should be submitted through the Arts and Humanities Research Council funding website. Students can find more information about Arts and Humanities Research Council funding through the Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership  website. All eligible Arts and Humanities Research Council funding applications and Economic and Social Research Council funding will be considered for the Music Scholarship. Please note that other schemes are available that have alternative processes and may require a separate application.

For queries specifically related to your application please email  [email protected]  

The deadline to submit an application is at 12pm noon on 10 January 2024.

College of Arts and Law [email protected]

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Music MPhil, PhD

Our MPhil and PhD in Music programmes enable you to pursue advanced research in the areas of classical, popular, world, contemporary, early, folk and traditional music through a range of approaches.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2024
• January 2025

Practice-based research focuses on composition, performance, improvisation and other forms of multi-media work.

Areas of musicological and theoretical inquiry can include the following approaches:

• cultural and critical
• historiographic
• ethnomusicological
• music analytical
• philosophical and aesthetic

Applications are welcome from students with academic or practice-based research interests in any field that we are able to supervise.

To view the staff areas of expertise please visit:

• our music research pages
• individual staff pages

You'll join a wider community of fellow postgraduate students working in the International Centre for Music Studies (ICMuS), and more widely in the School of Arts and Cultures and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences . ICMuS also holds regular PhD/MPhil forums for students to discuss their research.

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2023-24.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

Qualifications explained.

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

An MPhil is available in all subject areas. You receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 - 50,000 word thesis.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It involves original research that should make a significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. To complete the PhD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. A PhD usually takes three years full time.

How you'll learn

These programmes are delivered remotely or in the Armstrong Building. You'll be assigned a principal supervisor, supported by a wider supervisory team of one or more additional supervisors.

In the first year, you'll complete the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences’ Doctoral Research Training Programme.

Beyond this, study is based on one to one tutorials with your supervisors, which can be flexibly scheduled. A blended approach of in-person and web-based supervision can also be negotiated for students studying remotely.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

We offer a wide range of projects for the master's thesis. These will be provided by our academics. You can also propose your own topic.

If you choose to engage in academic research you are normally assessed by a thesis of no more than 100,000 words for PhD and 50,000 words for MPhil. If you choose to undertake practice-based research you will normally submit a portfolio (eg of scores, sound files, video files, other forms of documentation or some combination of these). This is supplemented by a related dissertation to explain the larger, practice-based component.

Our mission is to help you:

• stay healthy, positive and feeling well
• overcome any challenges you may face during your degree – academic or personal
• get the most out of your postgraduate research experience
• carry out admin and activities essential to progressing through your degree
• understand postgraduate research processes, standards and rules

We can offer you tailored wellbeing support, courses and activities.

You can also access a broad range of workshops covering:

• research and professional skills
• careers support
• health and safety
• public engagement
• academic development

Find out more about our postgraduate research student support

Your development

Professional skills.

PhD students may be given the opportunity to undertake some undergraduate teaching, with appropriate mentoring, at a suitable point in their study.

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) researcher development programme 

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. We have designed your programme to help you:

• perform better as a researcher
• boost your career prospects
• broaden your impact

Through workshops and activities, it will build your transferable skills and increase your confidence.

You’ll cover:

• techniques for effective research
• methods for better collaborative working
• essential professional standards and requirements

Your researcher development programme is flexible. You can adapt it to meet your changing needs as you progress through your doctorate.

Find out more about the Researcher Education and Development programme

Doctoral training and partnerships

There are opportunities to undertake your PhD at Newcastle within a:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

Being part of a CDT or DTP has many benefits:

• they combine research expertise and training of a number of leading universities, academic schools and academics.
• you’ll study alongside a cohort of other PhD students
• they’re often interdisciplinary
• your PhD may be funded

Find out more about doctoral training and partnerships

If there are currently opportunities available in your subject area you’ll find them when you search for funding in the fees and funding section on this course.

The following centres/partnerships below may have PhD opportunities available in your subject area in the future:

• Northern Bridge Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership

Your future

Our careers service.

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

We have outstanding specialist music facilities . Our £4.5m purpose-built Music Studios were designed with performance, multimedia and studio-based work in mind.

Additional facilities include:

• two professional-grade recording studios
• a large student common room, including a work area with PCs featuring specialist music software
• a range of recently refurbished rehearsal spaces
• a full range of recently refurbished teaching facilities, including a 100-seat lecture theatre, two 50 seat lecture theatres and three 25-seater seminar rooms
• 12 practice rooms with integrated recording facilities
• a dedicated postgraduate workspace
• a project room equipped with 5.1 mixing system

The University Library provides access to

• extensive music collections (including a number of important manuscript and microfilm collections)
• subscriptions to many specialist music journals
• a significant body of online resources

The library is widely recognised for the supportive service it offers students and staff.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year), home fees for research degree students.

For 2024-25 entry, we will be aligning our standard Home research fees with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee will be confirmed in Spring 2024 by UKRI. The Home tuition fees for this course will be updated after this confirmation. 

If your studies last longer than one year, your tuition fee may increase in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

• How to apply

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

Open days and events

You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year including:

• campus tours
• on-campus open days
• virtual open days

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

• Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Dr Bennett Hogg School of Arts and Cultures Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 3509 Email: [email protected]

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

Keep updated

We regularly send email updates and extra information about the University.

Receive regular updates by email

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Get involved with the Music social media. 

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School of Arts and Creative Technologies

PhD and MPhil in Music

Combine creativity and innovation with academic study to develop key skills for your future career in the field, academia or research.

If your passion lies in research, our doctoral degrees provide the opportunity to combine academia with creativity and innovation. Study with us and receive expert research guidance from our supportive staff, who will encourage you to achieve your full potential.

Your research

Research in Music at the University of York is wide ranging. We have specialists in historical, cultural and critical musicology, composition (acoustic and electronic), performance (especially contemporary performance practices and historical informed practice), music analysis, music education, music psychology and cognition, music AI, and new audio technologies. Many projects are interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with researchers beyond Music.

[email protected] +44 (0)1904 325220

Related links

• Research degree funding
• Accommodation
• International students
• Life at York
• How to apply

These perspectives are embedded within our three Research Clusters: the Contemporary Music Research Cluster, the Musical Cultures and Communities Research Cluster and the Music, Science and Technology Research Cluster. 

Discover more about staff research and expertise

MPhil or PhD projects can use theoretical or experimental methods, can take place through performance, composition, or improvisation, or can involve a comvination of approaches/

Postgraduate research provides opportunities to develop your academic, creative and practical skills. You'll work independently in an academic environment where creativity and scholarship are equally balanced. 

You'll meet regularly with your research supervisor and will have the opportunity to participate in an exciting range of research events.

This PhD programme is aimed at individuals:

• seeking to reach a professional standard of academic research and to pursue a career in either Higher Education or areas of professional practice;
• working professionally in any field of music and wishing to make a career move into teaching and research in Higher Education;
• working in any field of music and wishing to develop their careers with the production of a substantial piece of original research.

A PhD or MPhil by Performance allows you to develop original, innovative, creative research projects.

• The programme has a full-time and a part-time route. The full-time route comprises three years’ study for a PhD, two for an MPhil, both with one optional ‘continuation’ year for completion. The part-time route comprises six years’ study for a PhD, or four for an MPhil, again with the additional ‘continuation’ year for completion, as necessary.
• You will work under the supervision of one or more staff members with expertise relevant to the project topic. As a research student you are also supported by a Thesis Advisory panel (TAP) , which includes an additional academic staff member (not your supervisor).
• As either a PhD or MPhil student, you will submit a portfolio of performance projects, fully documented through video/audio recordings. The portfolio is to be accompanied by critical writing that draws out the research embedded in the practice, discussing aspects of the performance processes and situating the work in a research context. The number and scale of the performance projects, and the length of the written submission, will be negotiated with your supervisor and agreed with your TAP. This will be in relation to the nature of the work and the programme for which you are registered (PhD or MPhil).

A PhD or MPhil by Composition allows you to develop original, innovative, creative research projects.

• You will work under the supervision of one or more staff members with expertise relevant to the project topic. As a research student you are also supported by a Thesis Advisory panel (TAP) , which includes an additional academic staff member (not your supervisor).
• As either a PhD or MPhil student, you will submit a portfolio of composition projects, fully documented through video/audio recordings and/or scores, as appropriate. The portfolio is to be accompanied by critical writing that draws out the research embedded in the practice, discussing aspects of the composition processes and situating the work in a research context. The number and scale of the compositions, and the length of the written submission, will be negotiated with your supervisor and agreed with your TAP. This will be in relation to the nature of the work and the programme for which you are registered (PhD or MPhil).

Our PhD and MPhil by written thesis allows you to develop an original and innovative research project.

• The programme has a full-time and a part-time route. The full-time route comprises three years’ study for a PhD, two for an MPhil, both with one optional ‘continuation’ year for completion. The part-time route comprises six years’ study for a PhD, or four for an MPhil, again with the additional ‘continuation’ year for completion, as necessary.
• You will work independently on a project of your choosing, guided by your supervisor, honing your scholarship and research skills. Word limits for theses are not fixed but, as a guide, when a thesis is the sole submission it is usually expected to be 30,000-50,000 words for a MPhil, and 70,000-100,000 words for a PhD.

If you have started a PhD in Music and find that you need to relocate, you will have the option of transferring to a PhD in Music by distance learning, giving you the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world, with supervision and progression meetings taking place online. For further information, email [email protected] .

UNESCO certified Creative City of Media Arts

York as a city is recognised as a hotbed of creative talent, acting as a gateway to international markets. For two millennia York has been the meeting point for ideas and creativity. Today it is nicknamed the 'City of Festivals'.

Variety of ensembles

Immerse yourself in music and join one of our many staff-conducted or student-led ensembles. From gospel choir to Gamelan to musical theatre societies, York has ample opportunities for you to perform with like-minded people. We also hold a vibrant weekly concert programme.

Explore Arts and Creative Technologies funding for PhD/MPhil researchers and wider postgraduate support.

Supervision

We'll help match your research interests to our supervisory expertise. You'll have a weekly or fortnightly meeting with your supervisor during semester time.

Fantastic facilities

You’ll have access to the Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall and the Rymer Auditorium, as well as five recording studios, fantastic practice facilities and our large collection of historical and world instruments.

Research excellence

We are rated in the UK Top 30 for music research according to the Times Higher Education's ranking of the latest REF results (REF 2021).

Course location

This course is run by the School of Arts and Creative Technologies.

You will be based mostly on  Campus West . Most of your training and supervision meetings will take place here. Some of our facilities are based on  Campus East , and your research may take you further afield.

Entry requirements

An MA degree with the equivalent of a distinction or very high merit, or equivalent experience.

For the composition pathway, you should have an MA in Composition and be able to evidence a high level of ability and originality in composition.

For the performance pathway, you should be able to demonstrate sustained professional experience as a performer.

If you have any questions about the suitability of your qualifications, please contact a member of staff. 

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Apply for the PhD in Music

Apply for the MPhil in Music

Take a look at the  supporting documents  you may need for your application.

Find out more about how to apply .

Identify a supervisor

You should identify a potential supervisor in our faculty whose area of research overlaps with yours. We encourage you to contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply.

You should note your preferred supervisor in your application.

Supporting documents

We require you to submit the following documents:

• If you wish to specialise in composition, supply two examples of scores you have composed and, if available, recordings of performances of your compositions.
• If you wish to specialise in performance, you will be required to play or sing if you are invited to an interview, and you should bring with you to the interview an essay of about 3,000 words on a topic related to performance practice. If you are unable to attend an interview then you should send a certified recording of a recent performance and an essay of about 3,000 words on a topic related to performance practice.
• If you wish to specialise in another area, eg musicology, analysis, ethnomusicology or music education, supply an essay of 3,000 to 5,000 words on a topic related to your proposed field of study.

Submit your application

You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start, save, and finish it later.

We will respond to your application in four to six weeks. You may track the status of your application and view any official correspondence online.

Careers and skills

Your PhD or MPhil will help to extend your qualifications, giving you the ability to use analysis-based research for application within music including in contemporary music, musical cultures and communities and music, science and technology. You will become equipped with transferable skills in using creativity to solve problems, critical analysis and composition, presentation and performance. Ultimately, your PhD will help to open the door to various creative, technical, analytical, research and managerial roles in your chosen field within this growing industry.

Our dedicated careers team offer specific support including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you to build up your employability portfolio and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.

Discover York

We offer a range of campus accommodation to suit you and your budget, from economy to deluxe.

Discover more about our researchers, facilities and why York is the perfect choice for your research degree.

Graduate Research School

Connect with researchers across all disciplines to get the most out of your research project.

Meet us online or on campus

Find out all you need to know about applying to York

Scholarships

Find scholarships to support your studies

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Margaret Carlaw - Music PhD Scholarship

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There are two Margaret Carlaw - Music PhD Scholarships available. They will be awarded to students undertaking a PhD within the Department of Music at the University of Aberdeen in any area of music beginning in the academic year 2024-25.

Description

Applications are invited for a scholarship from graduates with a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree in Music, or an equivalent qualification, undertaking full-time PhD studies within the Department of Music at the University of Aberdeen beginning in the 2024-25 academic year. Applicants must hold an offer of admission for the PhD before applying for the scholarship.

Each scholarship is valued at £4,000 per annum for the three years duration of the full-time PhD degree. The annual scholarship payments will be dispersed in two equal parts, the first instalment of £2,000 at the start of the academic year and the second instalment of £2,000 at the start of the second half session. The award is received subject to satisfactory progress over the period and an annual review will take place.

Eligibility

Applicants of any fee status are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

The scholarships will be awarded based of merit and musical talent in any area of music (i.e. composition or musicology).

Application Procedure

To apply, please submit a CV including your University of Aberdeen Applicant Reference Number, at least one example of your recent work (i.e. a composition or essay) and a covering letter with an outline of your proposed programme of research, to:

Lyndsey Scott, School Administrator (email: [email protected] )

** PLEASE NOTE: All applications and supporting documents must be sent via email to [email protected] **

2nd of August 2024

Further Info

Informal enquiries should be directed to Lyndsey Scott (email: [email protected] )

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Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

• a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
• support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

• conference attendance
• language training
• overseas research visits
• internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

• non-medical personal assistance
• specialist equipment
• extra travel costs
• general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

• Staff & students

MPhil/PhD Music

Course information.

3-4 years full-time or 4-6 years part-time

Course overview

Goldsmiths’ Department of Music has a lively and varied research base, large postgraduate community, active performing tradition, and offers proximity to London’s resources.

Staff research interests are correspondingly diverse and wide-ranging, and we offer research supervision in many different areas, from composition to performance, sonic arts to popular music.

Our MPhil/PhD programmes

• MPhil/PhD in Music : Written thesis of up to 100,000 words (MPhil: 60,000 words). We offer supervision in many areas of music studies.
• Practice-Based Research in Music : Examined by portfolio of practice, and a 30,000-60,000 word written element. Portfolios may include recordings of composition; documentation of performance; ethnographic film; web-based and digital humanities projects; documentation of installation; other practice-based research.

Research supervision

You are assigned members of staff qualified to supervise your research throughout your period of registration. Supervision involves regular meetings throughout the period of study and involves the development of an intensive intellectual relationship between you and your supervisor.

You can get in touch with potential supervisors via the contact on the relevant staff page below. It is recommended you do this as a first step towards securing your place.

You have access to Goldsmiths Graduate School, containing an open-access computer room, a student common room and seminar room for use by postgraduate research students. 

Find out more about research degrees at Goldsmiths .

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Keith Negus .

You can study full-time or part-time. The programme normally begins in September, but applications for entry in January and April may be considered.

Supervision is available in any of the areas of specialism outlined above or covered by staff research interests .

Research students are strongly encouraged to contribute to the Department’s research culture. You will have regular opportunities to present papers at seminars and conferences.

Composers can have pieces performed or recorded by Goldsmiths ensembles, including the Sinfonia, or by the Ensembles-in-Residence.

Performers are encouraged to take part in departmental concerts, and may audition for concerto appearances.

Registration and study

Initially, you register for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programme to train you in the research methods you will need to complete a PhD. You can apply to transfer to PhD registration when you have satisfactorily completed an agreed part of the research and training programme; this usually happens after approximately 18 months if you are studying full-time, or before 36 months if part-time. 

You should aim to complete and submit your PhD thesis within an agreed period, usually three to four years for full-time students, and four to six years for part-time.

If you decide not to upgrade to PhD registration, you can submit your thesis for an MPhil after two years if you are studying full-time, or after three years if part-time. With the agreement of your supervisor, you can change your registration from full to part-time or vice versa.

North American applicants especially should note that the British system does not include preparatory taught classes or examinations as part of the MPhil/PhD programme, except for an initial course in research methods.

Entry requirements

You should normally have (or expect to be awarded) a high pass in a taught Masters degree. In exceptional circumstances we will also consider applicants with an undergraduate degree and professional experience equivalent to a Masters degree.

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification ) of 7.0 with a 7.0 in writing and no element lower than 6.5 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study .

Fees, funding & scholarships

Annual tuition fees.

These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year.

• Home - full-time: £TBC
• Home - part-time: £TBC
• International - full-time: £TBC

If your fees are not listed here, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office , who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.

It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while being on another visa type, please contact our Admissions Team for more information.

If you are looking to pay your fees please see our guide to making a payment .

Additional costs

In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page .

There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments.

Funding opportunities

Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities . If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.

How to apply

You apply directly to Goldsmiths using our online application system. 

Normally, you should begin by contacting either the programme contact listed above, or a staff member active in the relevant field in order to discuss their research project. Staff biographies and specialisms can be seen on our  staff pages .

Once you have discussed and shaped your project, and the staff member concerned has provisionally agreed to supervise you, you should draft a formal research proposal and personal statement. The former should be about 1,500 words long, and should outline your project, describing your research questions, methods, and context – this part comprising a literature review, and a statement as to how your work will seek to make an original contribution to knowledge. The personal statement should outline the reasons you want to carry out the project, your longer-term plans as a researcher, and the ways that you see your work as fitting into and being supported by our Department.

Before submitting your application you'll need to have: 

• Details of  your education history , including the dates of all exams/assessments
• The  email address of your referee  who we can request a reference from, or alternatively an electronic copy of your academic reference
• Contact details of a second referee
• A  personal statement – t his can either be uploaded as a Word Document or PDF, or completed online

            Please see our guidance on writing a postgraduate statement

• If available, an electronic copy of your educational transcript (this is particularly important if you have studied outside of the UK, but isn’t mandatory)
• Details of your  research proposal

You'll be able to save your progress at any point and return to your application by logging in using your username/email and password.

When to apply  

We accept applications from October for students wanting to start the following September. 

We encourage you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you haven't finished your current programme of study. It's very common to be offered a place conditional on you achieving a particular qualification.  

If you're applying for external funding from one of the Research Councils, make sure you submit your application by the deadline they've specified. 

Selection process 

Admission to many programmes is by interview.

Find out more about applying .

Please visit our Staff pages to find out more about who teaches in the Department .

Find out more about the  MPhil/PhD projects that are currently taking place within the department .

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This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of funding sources in musicology. It includes only small grants for research and travel purposes and  does not include funding for your course of studies or fieldwork expenses . Always check the website of the appropriate organization for the most up-to-date application and deadline information on each award.

External Funding

Faculty of music funding for research/research-related travel.

Summary The Faculty Board of Music has a limited amount of money available to support the research activities of postgraduate students. Please find below a few notes that might help you in making an application for funding. If you need any assistance or have questions about your particular application, please contact the Faculty Manager at [email protected] .

As funds are limited, you are advised to apply for funding in support of your project from all available sources as it would be unusual for Faculty funds to cover 100% of project costs.  Please note that the Faculty Board will not normally consider retrospective applications, so if you think that there is a possibility that you may wish to travel you should submit an application – it can always be withdrawn.

Application Process

• If you wish to apply for funding, please download and complete an application form in full, applications should be typewritten.
• Arrange for a short (a paragraph or so is sufficient) supporting statement from your supervisor in support of your project (this should be sent directly to [email protected] separately from your application).
• Your application must be submitted by email to: [email protected] .
• Your application will be assessed by the Faculty’s Standing Committee which meets regularly througough the year.  Please note that if your application is received after the end of Easter term, there may be a significant delay before this can be considered.
• You will be advised of the Standing Committee’s decision as quickly as possible after the meeting. If your application is successful, you will be required to submit an expenses claim with proof of agreed expenditure (e.g. copies of travel receipts/conference fees etc) and will be issued a cheque to reimburse your approved expenses.

College Funding 

Application procedures vary by college. Please see your college website or contact your college postgraduate administrator for details.

Other University Funding

The University administers a small number of Travel Awards directly with application deadlines in Lent Term .  You can also search the University's database of internal (including Colleges) funding opportunities: The Cambridge Funding Search .

The University’s Arts, Humanities and Social Science Research Group also provides helpful information about funding and other resources for research students, including feedback from successful applicants and Research Facilitators and information about technical support.

Music Analysis Development Fund Grant Support for travel and subsistence to attend conferences abroad, to consult library and archival resources, or to pursue other comparable research activities. Also provides support for the acquisition of microfilms or photocopies of sources, or assistance with the preparation of material for publication. Applications should include a brief description of the project and its relevance to music analysis, details of any other funding applications made, and a supervisor’s reference. www.sma.ac.uk/grants/development/

Music & Letters Trust Award Support for the obtaining of research materials, editorial costs, and expenses for research trips and conference attendance. Applications should include a project description, budget, details of any funding applications to other sources, and two reference letters. The Trust frequently funds projects on a shared basis and may make a provisional award pending the outcome of another funding application. It may also choose to award only a proportion of the amount requested. Applicants are eligible to receive funding from the Trust only once every two years. Applicants should note the the Trust applies strict deadlines for the receipt of applications. www.oxfordjournals.org/our_journals/musicj/grants.html

Royal Musical Association Student Research Grant For student members of the RMA or members of RMA student groups. Typical expenses might include microfilm and photocopying costs, travel, and accommodation expenses for research away from home or for giving papers at conferences. Applications consist of a curriculum vitae, project description and budget, and letter of support from the supervisor. http://www.rma.ac.uk/grants-awards/small-research-grants/small-research-grants-application/

Musica Britannica Louise Dyer Award Support for postgraduate research students researching British music. Preference will normally be given to those working for a doctorate. Awards are given for any necessary research expenditure, such as the purchase of books, music, or microfilms, or essential travel. They are not available for computer equipment, ordinary maintenance, or conference expenses. Applications should include a completed application form and a supervisor’s reference. www.musicabritannica.org.uk/LDawards.html

The Society for Education, Music and Psychology Research (sempre) sempre is the only society which embraces research in both music education and music psychology, providing an international forum to encourage the exchange of ideas and to disseminate research findings. Sempre will provide student bursary funding for certain conferences. http://www.sempre.org.uk/awards

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