Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Research in Music

The School of Music core faculty and affiliated professors offer a PhD in Interdisciplinary Research in Music. The program is based on an interdisciplinary approach in which music studies are placed at the heart of the program and are combined with a complementary research discipline.

This program prepares our graduates for leadership roles in a society where musical culture is undergoing rapid changes. The interdisciplinary doctoral design of this program reflects the intricate combination of different methodological approaches often applied in music research today. Through a rigorous and interdisciplinary research training program, our students will be better prepared to meet the challenges of a world where all aspects of the music industry and music research are in constant and rapid evolution.
The University of Ottawa can play a key role in helping to meet the various challenges faced by all participants within the complex world of musical culture, by training the next generation of leaders and professionals with the skills and abilities needed to solve a variety of problems.

Applicants should have a master’s degree (or equivalent) in music or in another field and meet the minimum average of 7.0 (B+). They must also meet the Language requirements described below.

Applicants with a music research background (MA in music)
Applicants will be expected to a) have already completed one of the following courses (or their equivalent); or b) take one of the following courses, depending on their area of interest, in addition to the requirements of their doctoral program:

MUS5901 Research methodology course in musical analysis
MUS5903 Research methodology course in musicology
MUS5904 Research methodology course in music pedagogy

Applicants with a music performance background (MMus)
Applicants will be expected to a) have already completed one of the following courses (or their equivalent); or b) take one of the following courses in addition to the requirements of their doctoral program:

MUS5901 Research methodology course in musical analysis
MUS5903 Research methodology course in musicology
MUS5904 Research methodology course in music pedagogy

Additional research music courses may be required as determined by the Research Sector Committee after review of each candidate's file.

Applicants with a background other than music
Applicants holding a master's degree in a discipline other than music will be considered after review of each candidate's file. The Research Sector Committee may require up to two additional music courses (6 units) or a qualifying year.

English language requirements:

TOEFL Internet-based (IBT) - 79; Paper-Based - 550

IELTS - 6.5