Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Composition PHD Program By University of Utah |Top Universities
Main Subject Area

Performing ArtsMain Subject Area

Program overview

Main Subject

Performing Arts

Study Level

PHD

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in composition stresses creative activity emphasizing the development of a personal aesthetic expressed in original compositions. Competencies also include a broad knowledge of historical and contemporary compositional practices, music theory, history and criticism, and creative approaches to relationships of these to the compositional process (source: NASM Handbook, pp. 112). The doctoral graduate in composition demonstrates substantial individual expertise in the subject matter and techniques of composition and music theory. A breadth of interest and originality of outlook that indicate real promise of success in composition is expected of all Ph.D. candidates; the demonstrated potential for on-going research in music theory, as well as competency in teaching composition and music theory are also expectations for successful graduates. Learning Outcomes Students will demonstrate the competency to create highly original musical works of major scope in both acoustic and electronic media; work with a variety of forms, styles, and notations; and apply principles of scoring appropriate to an individual musical voice. Students will demonstrate fluency in the use of tools needed by composers. This includes advanced analytical techniques, applicable technologies, and strong spoken and written language skills. Students will have opportunities to hear fully realized performances of their compositions. Public presentation and critical assessment are essential experiences. Students will demonstrate the competency to write essays that make original contributions to theoretical/analytical fields of music research. Students will demonstrate competency in teaching music theory and composition. Students will demonstrate sufficient writing and speaking skills to communicate clearly and effectively to members of the scholarly community and the wider community. Students will demonstrate excellence in composition, and a unique personal musical voice. Students will demonstrate the specialized musical preparation, knowledge, and skills necessary for an academic career in composition. Students will demonstrate readiness for an academic career in composition by completing and presenting in live performance original compositions in a variety of media during their studies, and a dissertation consisting of a compositional work of major scope. Students will demonstrate the competency to write an extended essay that makes an original contribution to theoretical/analytical fields of music research, and the ability to present and discuss their work with peers in a clear, articulate manner.

Program overview

Main Subject

Performing Arts

Study Level

PHD

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in composition stresses creative activity emphasizing the development of a personal aesthetic expressed in original compositions. Competencies also include a broad knowledge of historical and contemporary compositional practices, music theory, history and criticism, and creative approaches to relationships of these to the compositional process (source: NASM Handbook, pp. 112). The doctoral graduate in composition demonstrates substantial individual expertise in the subject matter and techniques of composition and music theory. A breadth of interest and originality of outlook that indicate real promise of success in composition is expected of all Ph.D. candidates; the demonstrated potential for on-going research in music theory, as well as competency in teaching composition and music theory are also expectations for successful graduates. Learning Outcomes Students will demonstrate the competency to create highly original musical works of major scope in both acoustic and electronic media; work with a variety of forms, styles, and notations; and apply principles of scoring appropriate to an individual musical voice. Students will demonstrate fluency in the use of tools needed by composers. This includes advanced analytical techniques, applicable technologies, and strong spoken and written language skills. Students will have opportunities to hear fully realized performances of their compositions. Public presentation and critical assessment are essential experiences. Students will demonstrate the competency to write essays that make original contributions to theoretical/analytical fields of music research. Students will demonstrate competency in teaching music theory and composition. Students will demonstrate sufficient writing and speaking skills to communicate clearly and effectively to members of the scholarly community and the wider community. Students will demonstrate excellence in composition, and a unique personal musical voice. Students will demonstrate the specialized musical preparation, knowledge, and skills necessary for an academic career in composition. Students will demonstrate readiness for an academic career in composition by completing and presenting in live performance original compositions in a variety of media during their studies, and a dissertation consisting of a compositional work of major scope. Students will demonstrate the competency to write an extended essay that makes an original contribution to theoretical/analytical fields of music research, and the ability to present and discuss their work with peers in a clear, articulate manner.

Admission requirements

6+

Tuition fee and scholarships

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The mission of the University of Utah is to educate the individual and to discover, refine, and disseminate knowledge. As a major teaching and research university, the flagship institution of the Utah State System of Higher Education, the University of Utah strives to create an academic environment where the highest standards of scholarship and professional practice are observed and where responsibilities to students are conscientiously met. The University recognizes the mutual relevance and interdependence of teaching and research as essential components of academic excellence. It welcomes students who are committed to learning and conform to high academic standards. The right of free inquiry is zealously preserved; diversity is encouraged and respected; critical examination and creativity are promoted; and intellectual integrity and social responsibility are fostered. The University is fully committed to the goals of equal opportunity and affirmative action; which are designed to ensure that each individual is provided with the opportunity for full, unhampered, and responsible participation in ever aspect of campus life. Add in the U's spectacular mountain setting-- a one-of-a-kind environment -- and an extraordinary education is guaranteed.

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